Stress–strain analysis of dented rectangular plates subjected to uni-axial compressive loading

• The local and global structural behaviour of rectangular steel plates with a local dent is studied.
• Nonlinear finite element analyses have been performed.
• The change of the buckling mode for different plate thickness ranges is categorized.
• Two relationships have been developed to estimate the ultimate strength reduction factor.
• A new formulation for ultimate strength of damaged plate has been introduced.

The aim of this work is to analyse the local and the global structural behaviour of rectangular steel plates with a local dent. Nonlinear finite element analyses have been performed to explore the effect of different dent depths on the ultimate strength and the post-collapse behaviour. The post-collapse modes are discussed and the change of the buckling mode for different plate thickness ranges is categorized. The behaviour in post-collapse regime is analysed using the defined stress–strain rate. Two relationships have been developed to estimate the ultimate strength reduction as a function of the plate slenderness and dent ratio. Based on the existing ultimate strength design formula and a new developed factor, a new formulation for ultimate strength of damaged plate has been introduced accounting for the effect of local dent. The new developed formulation is capable to account for an initial global imperfection, residual stresses, openings, corrosion deterioration and existence of dents.