Mathematical model for thin-walled grooved tubes under axial compression

In the present study, energy absorption and mean crushing load of thin-walled steel tubes containing annular grooves are theoretically studied. The grooves are introduced in the tube to force the plastic deformation to occur at predetermined intervals along the tube. The aims are controlling the buckling mode and predicting energy absorption capacity of the tubes. Quasi-static axial crushing tests are performed and the load–displacement curves are studied. Theoretical formulations are presented for energy absorption and mean crushing load. The results indicate good agreement between the theory and experimental findings. Therefore the energy absorbed by the axial crushing of tubes could be controlled by the theory.