Abstract
A finite element analysis method is proposed for predicting the steady-state limit of a cantilever beam-column whose cross-section is symmetrical with respect to two orthogonal axes in a 3D space. The beam-column is subjected to an idealized completely reversed tip-deflection cycling program with continuously increasing amplitude under a constant axial load. Firstly, an analysis method is presented for tracing the steady-state path of the beam-column. Secondly, the steady-state limit of a tip deflection amplitude is found as a limit point of a steady-state path. Finally, the steady-state limits are verified through finite element analyses of hysteretic responses of beam-columns.
