Three-dimensional axisymmetric flow in perfectly plastic metals

A method is presented for solving the three-dimensional axisymmetric field equations for a perfectly plastic material which obeys the von-Mises yield criterion and the Levy-Mises flow law. The method is used for the particular case in which a small axisymmetric perturbed flow is superposed on a uniform flow without flow reversal taking place. The method then leads to solving a fourth order differential equation for the velocity potential. The special case of a thick cylindrical shell under compressive flow is examined. The solution so obtained, being derived, from the three dimensional theory, includes a correct treatment of transverse shear distortion. A preferred mode of instability is identified having a wave-length in reasonable agreement with that obtained experimentally by other workers.