A comparative study of three-dimensional and two-dimensional finite element analyses for intersecting shells

Abstract

In this study, the numerical procedure for the three-dimensional finite element analysis of shell intersections is presented. The paper includes a description of the modified mixed variational formulation, a model of an eight-node three-dimensional finite element and a computer program for stress analysis of the intersecting shells. The comparison of stress results obtained using the three-dimensional computer program with experimental data is given. The results of a comparative study of the three-dimensional and two-dimensional finite element analyses for stress distribution in the intersection region and the maximum effective stress are presented for normally intersecting cylindrical shells under internal pressure loading.