An Alternative Approach to Obtaining Stiffness and Mass Matrices for Three-Dimensional Bernoulli-Euler and Timoshenko Beam-Columns

Abstract

In the static analysis of beam-column systems using matrix methods, polynomials are using as the shape functions. The transverse deflections along the beam axis, including the axial- flexural effects in the beam-column element, are not adequately described by polynomials. As an alternative method, the element stiffness matrix is modeling using stability parameters. The shape functions which are obtaining using the stability parameters are more compatible with the system’s behavior. A mass matrix used in the dynamic analysis is evaluated using the same shape functions as those used for derivations of the stiffness coefficients and is called a consistent mass matrix. In this study, the stiffness and consistent mass matrices for prismatic three-dimensional Bernoulli-Euler and Timoshenko beam-columns are proposed with consideration for the axial-flexural interactions and shear deformations associated with transverse deflections along the beam axis. The second-order effects, critical buckling loads, and eigenvalues are determined. According to the author’s knowledge, this study is the first report of the derivations of consistent mass matrices of Bernoulli-Euler and Timoshenko beam-columns under the effect of axially compressive or tensile force.