Stability of biaxially loaded square plates with single central holes

The stability of a biaxially loaded perforated square plate has been studied using the finite element method. The parameters considered in the study are the plate's slenderness ratio, diameter of the circular hole, the material's yield stress, and the ratio of biaxial loads. The study shows that the bigger the hole diameter, the less the plate strength and stability. Specific plate slenderness ratios, at which the plate buckling changes from elastic to elasto-plastic, are identified. Families of curves suitable for design purposes are also generated to define both of the elastic and elasto-plastic buckling stresses for the different plate hole sizes as functions of the plate's slenderness ratio, loading ratio, and yield stress.