Mode of collapse and energy absorption characteristics of constrained frusta under axial impact loading

The energy absorption performance of right circular frusta subjected to dynamic axial load is studied and compared with the results of quasi-static tests. Frusta of different geometric ratios and end constraints were axially crushed using a drop hammer at initial velocities in the range of 2-5 m/s, The effect of heat treatment on the collapse behaviour and energy absorption is also investigated. The experimental observations indicate that the effects of the end constraints and heat treatment on the energy absorption were qualitatively similar to those observed under quasi-static testing. Due to inertia effects, the absolute values of the energy absorbed by similar frusta were higher under dynamic loads than under quasi-static loads. It has been established that constraining the frusta enhances their energy absorption capacity under static and dynamic loading particularly at the top (smaller diameter). The optimum geometric parameters for maximum energy absorption performance are identified when residual stresses and strain hardening characteristics, arising from spinning the frusta, were removed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.