This paper presents a derivation of exact expressions of moment-curvature r
elations of a circular tubular section. On the basis of these expressions a
nd the observed behavior of full-scale specimens, an approximate method of
second-order inelastic analysis applicable to pinned supported columns and
modular falsework frames is presented. The approximate method is used to ob
tain load-deflection curves, and in the solution procedure, a set of simult
aneous nonlinear equations is solved using MATHCAD. The load-deflection cur
ves compare well with experimental results, and their application is helpfu
l for verifying the quality of the modular tubular falsework units used in
construction.