Finite element analysis of cylindrical shells partially buried in elastic foundations

A method for analyzing cylindrical shells partially buried in an elastic foundation based on the finite element method is presented by using the expansion of a Fourier series in the circumferential direction to define the distribution of the foundation. Numerical analysis of convergence of the results is presented for a gravity load. The effect of the foundation on the distribution of stress resultants was investigated. Numerical results are also given for the internal liquid pressure load. In addition, cylindrical shells partially suspended on elastic foundations are also analyzed.