Linear buckling analysis of thin-walled members combining the Generalised Beam Theory and the Finite Element Method

A finite element procedure to carry out linear buckling analysis of thin-walled members is developed on the basis of the existing Generalised Beam Theory (GBT) and constrained Finite Strip Method (cFSM). It allows designers to uncouple the buckling modes of a finite element model and, consequently, to calculate pure elastic buckling loads. The procedure can easily be applied to members with general boundary conditions subjected to compression or bending. The results obtained are rather accurate when compared to the values calculated via GBT and cFSM. As a consequence, it is demonstrated that linear buckling analyses can be performed with the Finite Element Method in a similar way as can be done with the existing GBT and cFSM procedures.