Stability of Damped Columns on A Winkler Foundation Under Sub-tangential Follower Forces

This study examines the dynamic stability regions of damped columns on a Winkler foundation that are subjected to sub-tangentially distributed follower forces. A nondimensionalized equation of motion for the column subjected to linearly distributed follower forces is firstly derived based on the extended Hamilton's principle. A finite element procedure, using Hermitian interpolation functions, is employed to develop the mass matrix, Rayleigh damping matrix, Winkler foundation matrix, elastic and geometric stiffness matrices due to distributed axial forces, and a load correction stiffness matrix to account for sub-tangential follower forces. Subsequently, a time history analysis using the Newmark-β method and an evaluation method for the flutter and divergence loads of the nonconservative system are presented. Finally, the dynamic stability characteristics of the nonconservative system that display the jumping phenomenon in the second flutter load are explored through a parametric study. In particular, how the stable and unstable regions of the undamped and damped Leipholz columns translate with changes in the Winkler foundation stiffness is demonstrated and discussed.