Research on Calculation Method for Allowable Axial Compressive Stress of Cylinders Based on Elasto-Plastic Theory

JIAO Peng; XU Huangyang; DING Zhihuan; ZHANG Mingheng; ZHOU Qinghua; CHEN Zhiping

doi:10.27022/j.issn2097-7697.2026.01.008

Journal of Special Equipment ›› 2026, Vol. 1 ›› Issue (1) : 100-109. DOI: 10.27022/j.issn2097-7697.2026.01.008

Theoretical Innovations

Research on Calculation Method for Allowable Axial Compressive Stress of Cylinders Based on Elasto-Plastic Theory

JIAO Peng, XU Huangyang, DING Zhihuan, ZHANG Mingheng, ZHOU Qinghua, CHEN Zhiping

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Abstract

Cylinders are fundamental components in the field of pressure vessels, and axial compression buckling is a critical failure mode that must be addressed during the design process. The calculation method for the allowable axial compressive stress of cylinders in China’s fundamental design standard for pressure vessels, GB/T 150, has long been based on the American ASME method. This method, established decades ago, relies on linear buckling theory and exhibits limited accuracy. After more than a decade of dedicated research, the authors’ team proposed a new calculation method for the allowable axial compressive stress of cylinders based on elasto-plastic theory and the energy barrier theory. This method has been incorporated into GB/T 150.1—2024 Pressure Vessels—Part 1: General Requirements, marking an end to the long-standing reliance on the American ASME method for the buckling design of axially compressed cylinders in China. This paper elaborates on the scope of application, implementation process, and theoretical foundation of the new method. Through comprehensive comparative analyses with experimental data of buckling stresses for axially compressed cylinders reported in domestic and international literature, actual load-bearing capacities of large-scale industrial cylindrical components, and existing European and American standard methods, the advanced nature and safety of the new method are demonstrated. It is anticipated that this method will provide theoretical and technical support for the lightweight development of large cylindrical structures in China’s pressure vessel industry in the future.

Key words

Axially compressed cylinder / Energy barrier theory / Elasto-plastic buckling / Allowable axial compressive stress / Calculation method

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JIAO Peng, XU Huangyang, DING Zhihuan, ZHANG Mingheng, ZHOU Qinghua, CHEN Zhiping. Research on Calculation Method for Allowable Axial Compressive Stress of Cylinders Based on Elasto-Plastic Theory[J]. Journal of Special Equipment, 2026, 1(1): 100-109. https://doi.org/10.27022/j.issn2097-7697.2026.01.008

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