Numerical analysis on the deformation behavior of cylindrical tubes with end-capped shells under axial impact

Abstract Thin-walled tubes are designed as the key structural components of the majority of modern transportation vehicles owing to their excellent energy absorbing capability. Extensive research has been carried out on various types of materials and structures with good energy absorbing capability to mitigate the peak crushing force during impact event. In the current research article, numerical analysis on the axial buckling behavior and crashworthiness performance of cylindrical tubes with end-capped shells were executed. The objective of using end-capped shells is to decrease the initial peak crushing force and subsequently to enhance the energy absorption capability of the tube. The axial impact crushing behavior of the proposed cylindrical tubes with capped shells showed less initial peak crushing force than the traditional tubes. Overall outcomes from the present study indicated that, the weight reduction is still the most cost-effective means to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gases from the transportation sector.