Structural analysis using line elements to model members with non-symmetric cross sections

• Published in: Thin-walled structures Vol. 169; p. 108407
• Main Authors: Sippel, Edward J., Ziemian, Ronald D., Blum, Hannah B.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2021
• Subjects: Benchmarks; Finite-element method; Non-symmetric sections; Open sections; Second-order analysis; Warping; Finite-element method; Benchmarks; Non-symmetric sections; Open sections; Second-order analysis; Warping
• ISSN: 0263-8231; 1879-3223
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tws.2021.108407

This study investigated the response of non-symmetric cross sections using line finite element models that were created with conventional elements that assumed a doubly symmetric response and sophisticated elements that included additional non-symmetric behavior. These models were compared to shell element models and experimental results when available. It was found that in many cases the doubly symmetric analyses missed physical responses that the non-symmetric analyses could capture. It was observed that twisting and second-order effects due to twisting played a significant factor in the final response. Furthermore, consideration of non-symmetric behavior was required to calculate some responses accurately. •Four benchmark problems were analyzed.•An angle subjected to torsion required second-order effects to capture translations.•Buckling from combined axial and moment loading is influenced by non-symmetry.•Non-symmetric line element results agreed with shell FEA results of Z-section beam.•Doubly symmetric line elements inconsistently modeled out-of-plane deformations.