Nonlinear time-dependent analysis of planar frames using an ‘exact’ formulation—II. Computer implementation for R.C. structures and examples

Abstract In a companion paper ( Comput. Struct . 33 , 79–87), a formulation for the general analysis of plane frames has been presented, which permits the consideration of the nonlinear and time-dependent behavior of materials at one-dimensional ‘fiber’ level and the second order equilibrium effects. In the present paper, some aspects concerning the computer implementation of the formulation taking practical advantage of its theoretical possibilities are discussed, and a description of computer code CONS developed by the authors for the analysis of reinforced concrete structures is also given. The results obtained with the program in the case of four examples of application are presented and compared with experimental, analytical and numerical results from other authors. In these results the capabilities of the model to represent realistically several complex interaction phenomena, like creep-buckling, are shown, as well as some practical advantages against other existing formulations in the same field.