SummaryIn this paper, we investigate global and local stability of columns with an open and a closed thin-walled cross section. The proposed model of global stability is made of two deformable elements connected with an elastic joint. Stiffness of the elastic joint represents local discontinuity of the cross section of the column caused by the loss of stability of individual plates. The model of local stability of the columns is conceptualized on the principle of continuity of individual plates of the cross section. The coefficients of local buckling are defined as geometric parameters of the column with a rectangular hollow section (RHS) and a U-shaped cross section. The dominant parameters that influence the interactive behaviour of local and global buckling are the slenderness of plates and the column as a whole. The basic function of the developed models is to identify the stability mechanism in terms of better estimation of the critical force and higher load capacity.

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The paper presents a methodology for assessment the reliability of tank due to typical accidents. The aim of the research is to identify fracture lines and shapes of fragments generated by tank explosions. Accident scenarios and their probabilities are defined with Event Tree Analysis (ETA). Static structural analysis of the tank is realized by the software package ANSYS 15. The probabilistic mass method (PMM) was used to assessment the shape of the fragments. The assessment of the reliability of the tank affected by the fire was carried out according to Fault Tree Analysis (FTA). Verification of the results obtained was made according to available accidents. It has been found that the construction of the tank and especially the type of end caps affects the fragmentation pattern, i.e. the shape of fragments created by explosion. The results of the research are practically usable during the design of the tank because they provide information that is not contained in EN 13445-3.

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