Numerical simulation of aluminium stiffened panels subjected to axial compression: Sensitivity analyses to initial geometrical imperfections and material properties

In the present work, a set of finite element analyses (FEA) was carried out, using Abaqus to reproduce the mechanical behaviour of integrally stiffened panels when subject to longitudinal compression. Since most fabrication processes, such as welding, introduce distortions and affect the material properties, the sensitivity to these defects was assessed. Different shapes and magnitudes of the initial geometrical imperfections were tested and a high sensitivity was observed to both factors on the ultimate load. The existence of a heat affected material showed no influence on the ultimate strength of the tested panels.