Static and dynamic analysis of circular beams using explicit stiffness matrix

Two new elements with six degrees of freedom are proposed by applying the equilibrium conditions and strain-displacement equations. The first element is formulated for the infinite ratio of beam radius to thickness. In the second one, theory of the thick beam is used. Advantage of these elements is that by utilizing only one element, the exact solution will be obtained. Due to incorporating equilibrium conditions in the presented formulations, both proposed elements gave the precise internal forces. By solving some numerical tests, the high performance of the recommended formulations and also, interaction effects of the bending and axial forces will be demonstrated. While the second element has less error than the first one in thick regimes, the first element can be used for all regimes due to simplicity and good convergence. Based on static responses, it can be deduced that the first element is efficient for all the range of structural characteristics. The free vibration analysis will be performed using the first element. The results of static and dynamic tests show no deficiency, such as, shear and membrane locking and excessive stiff structural behavior.