Deformation in axial compression of aluminum tubular structures with ribs

Dynamic compression behavior of various kinds of polygonal tubular structures with ribs are investigated. Square hollow structures and that with rib reinforcement of aluminum extrusions are in dynamic axial compression, using a drop hammer. Numerical simulation was also conducted for the wider variety of cross-sectional shapes and reinforcements. The effect of the axial length, cross-sectional shape and reinforcing rib arrangement on the deformation behavior were investigated. Comparable compressive force was obtained when the cross-sectional area of the structure is similar, even if the number of edges in cross-section increases from four (square) to eight. Rib reinforcement is very effective for the improvement of the crush or energy absorbing performance. Deformation behavior was successfully predicted by the numerical simulation. Numerical simulation of the compression of the various polygonal tubular structures with radial ribs was also carried out. The number of radial ribs in cross-section of the polygonal hollow structure has a positive relationship to the deformation constraint at corners and the torsional rigidity, consequently, the crush resistance increased.