Plate-Reinforced Holes

Abstract

SummaryThe problem considered is the theoretical analysis and design of reinforcement around holes in plane sheets subjected to prescribed stresses at infinity. The reinforcement is taken to be an extensive thin plate attached to the sheet rather than the usual “compact bead” placed around the inside of the hole. The optimum design of the hole and the reinforcement is treated in two ways, firstly as an attempt to produce a “neutral hole” and secondly, to achieve the smallest stress concentration with the minimum amount of reinforcement. It is found in two cases that the plate-reinforcement can be as efficient as the bead but that, for both types, the validity of the theory is doubtful just when they are most efficient.