Simulating Twisting Behavior of Thin-Walled Beams Using Simplified Finite Element Models

Abstract

This paper develops simplified finite element (FE) models for simulating twisting behavior of thin-walled beams with box and hexagonal cross-sections. The twisting behavior of the thin-walled beam models under large plastic rotation is investigated and existing plastic deformation theories are applied in developing the simplified FE models. The developed simplified models are composed of beam elements and a nonlinear rotational spring element, which simulates the twisting behavior and stores the energy during the large plastic rotation. Accuracy and efficiency of the simplified models are validated through numerical analyses and the results correlate to those obtained from detailed models. The analyses and comparisons verify that the simplified models correctly reflect the thin-walled beam's twisting buckling as the detailed models did.