Objectives  In order to improve the accuracy of nonlinear numerical simulation of the ultimate load-bearing behavior of a hull stiffened plate, the effects of ideal elastoplastic, isotropic hardening and cyclic plastic Chaboche material models on the plastic yield distribution, compression and tensile ultimate strength of stiffened plates in their ultimate state are studied.

  Methods  For a stiffened plate of the same size, ANSYS software is used to carried out non-linear finite element numerical simulation of ultimate bearing performance under axial cyclic compression and cyclic compression-tension loads.

  Results  The results show that different material properties have a significant impact on the ultimate bearing capacity of stiffened plates and the plastic yield distribution in the ultimate state. When carrying out nonlinear finite element numerical simulation of the ultimate bearing behavior of a hull stiffened plate, it is necessary to select the appropriate material model according to different load forms.

  Conclusions  The results of this study can provide valuable references for further research on the ultimate strength characteristics and cumulative plastic failure mechanisms of hull structures under cyclic loading.