Impact on short length bars

A finite element method for the solution of an axisymmetric wave propagation problem of a bar of finite length is proposed. The results are obtained for a uniform bar with (i) a displacement input and (ii) a stress input. Also results are obtained for a discontinuous bar with stress input. They are compared with the existing finite difference solutions and experimental results. It is observed that the results are in close agreement. The study is then extended to the case of bars with an hemispherical end. The advantage of using the finite element method for such problems is indicated. Finally the results for a composite bar comprising a hallow cylinder and hemisphere are obtained by using the finite element method. Experiments are conducted to verify these results. © 1977.