This article details the experimental and numerical results on the energy absorption performance of square tubular profile with circular discontinuities drilled at lengthwise in the structure. A straight profile pattern was utilized to compare the absorption of energy between the ones with discontinuities under quasi-static loads. The collapse mode and energy absorption conditions were modified by circular holes. The holes were drilled symmetrically in two walls and located in three different positions along of profile length. The results showed a better performance on energy absorption for the circular discontinuities located in middle height. With respect to a profile without holes, a maximum increase of 7% in energy absorption capacity was obtained experimentally. Also, the numerical simulation confirmed that the implementation of circular discontinuities can reduce the peak load (Pmax) by 10%. A present analysis has been conducted to compare numerical results obtained by means of the finite element method with the experimental data captured by using the testing machine. Finally the discrete model of the tube with and without geometrical discontinuities presents very good agreements with the experimental results.
Thin walled structure; circular discontinuities; energy performance; finite element method; experimental stand
