Stability analysis and parametric study of pre-stressed stayed columns

The second-order stability analysis of pre-stressed cable-stayed columns wi th initial imperfection is presented in this paper. The robust pointwise eq uilibrium polynomial element satisfying equilibrium in moment and shear at mid-span of an element is used in association with the cable clement. Numer ical examples demonstrating the application and versatility of the proposed numerical procedure are given. A parametric study on the influence of init ial imperfection, rigidity and length of strut and size of cable is present ed. The findings are useful for the reference of the designer in using the efficient and elegant structural form of cable-stayed pre-stressed columns. (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.