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properly cited.To reduce computational effort of finite element (FE) calculations a corrugated sheet is replaced with an orthotropic plate. Analytical expressions for the mechanical properties are studied and compared to finite Element calculations in extension, free vibration, and buckling. Good similarity is shown in the stiffened and transverse direction of the corrugated sheet; however, the orthotropic models do not give an accurate twisting behavior. The stiffened direction of the corrugated sheet best matches the analytical expressions. Keeping in mind the presented limitation, the orthotropic model presented herein can be used to drastically reduce the number of elements needed when modelling corrugated sheet with finite elements.

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To simplify construction, reduce weight and improve mechanical properties, a sandwich panel substitution process is performed on corrugated sheets in the floor and roof of a rail vehicle car body. A requirement based selection is used to design the sandwich panels with the corrugated sheet mechanical characteristics as boundaries. Car body stiffness is evaluated by modal analysis. The derived panels reduce the mass of the car body by 600–700 kg. Results show the varying importance of the longitudinal, transverse and shear properties of the floor and roof panels, as well as how efficient the corrugated sheets actually are.

The finite difference method is used to solve the time-dependent thermo mechanical response of a layered composite structure subjected to fire. State variables of the composite are chosen whereby the external and internal boundary conditions are derived for an irregular grid through the thickness of the structure. The homogenised mass flux and specific heat capacity of pyrolysis gases over a layered composite is also defined. The formulations are tested against documented results found in the literature.