Elastic stability of uniform and hollow columns

Abstract

The stability of elastic beams and columns is investigated. The beams are subjected to the axial pressure at the elastically supported end whereas the other end of the beam is clamped. The attention is confined to the case of the beam of rectangular cross-section of piece wise constant thickness. The both, the uniform and the hollow-sectional beams are considered. It is assumed that the beams are weakened by stable cracks. The influence of crack parameters on the critical buckling load is assessed making use of the method of massless rotational spring.