Eray Arslan

Numerical Solution of Partially Plastic Curved Beam Problem

Numerical solutions are obtained for elastic and elastic-plastic bending of a curved beam via couples at its end sections, under plane stress presupposition. The model proposed is based on the von Mises’ yield criterion, Henky’s deformation theory, and nonlinear strain hardening material behavior. Using formal nondimensional variables, and an appropriate stress function, a single second order nonlinear differential equation describing the deformation behavior of the curved beam is obtained. A shooting technique using Newton iterations with numerically approximated tangents is used for the numerical integration of the governing equation. The computational model is verified both in elastic and partially plastic cases making use of published analytical and numerical FEM solutions. Open image in new window Figure 1 Stresses and displacement in a partially plastic curved beam.