24 Mar Linear Buckling Analysis
Linear buckling analysis, also called Eigenvalue Buckling or Euler Buckling, results in buckling load factors (BLF) and associated buckling modes (deformation shapes). The BLF is expressed by a number which the applied load must be multiplied by to obtain the buckling load magnitude. Linear buckling analysis is mathematically similar to a Modal Analysis (https://fea-solutions.co.uk/modal-analysis/). It does not result in stresses. Hence, when performing a linear buckling analysis, a stress analysis should be done as well. These are two separate analyses, using completely different mathematical models.
The buckling modes calculated represent the shapes of the structure when it buckles, but not the realistic numerical values of the displacements, because buckling will result in a collapse, not a stable deformation.
In a linear buckling analysis, many buckling modes are found. Although the structure is likely to catastrophically fail at the lowest BLF due to the first buckling mode, finding other buckling modes is nevertheless useful to allow structural improvements.
A buckling mode with a negative BLF means that the load must be reversed for buckling to occur.
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