On the eccentricity factor in the progressive crushing of tubes

The analysis of an axially compressed circular tube deforming in progressive axisymmetric folds carried out by Wierzbicki et al. [(1992) Int. J. Solids Structures 29, 3269–3288] assumes an eccentricity factor relating the inward and outward parts of the folds. This factor was arbitrary and was not derived from the analysis. The present work re-examines the problem and produces a value for the eccentricity factor which conforms with the experimental findings. Values of the critical angles required for the formation of the inward and outward folds obtained from the analysis were substantiated by those obtained from experiments.