Effect of lamination sequence on the localization and shear crippling instability in thick imperfect cross-ply rings under external pressure

Effect of lamination sequence on the compressive response of a thick plane strain cross-ply ring (very long cylindrical shell) weakened by the presence of a modal imperfection is investigated. A fully nonlinear finite element analysis, that employs a cylindrically curved 16-node layer-element, and is based on the assumption of layer-wise linear displacements distribution through thickness (LLDT), is utilized in the analysis of the afore-mentioned cross-ply ring. Hitherto unavailable numerical results pertaining to the influence of lamination sequence on the localization of buckling patterns and the ensuing shear crippling instability are also presented.