A Geometrically and Materially Non-linear 3-D Beam Finite Element for the Analysis of Tapered Steel Members

This paper presents the essentials of an original geometricaly and materialy non-linear 3-D tapered beam finite element. Theldand to the corresponding non-linear axial strains. Specific numerical problems met in the development of the finite element areexamined, concerning mainly shear and membrane locking and the handling of rigid body motions. Worked examples onisolated members are presented for various types of analyses: elastic linear, elastic critical and geometrically and materially non-linear analyses. Good accuracy with reference to numerical results is shown, as well as good convergence properties. It is also(segmentation technique) may lead to significant discrepancies when the behaviour is influenced by torsional aspects. KCI Citation Count: 0