In this paper, complex variable boundary element method (CVBEM) is used for the solution of de Saint-Venant's torsion problem in homogenous isotropic elastic beams with a generic cross section, considering a complex potential function related to the stress field. Generally, CVBEM, when used for torsion problems, leads to evaluation of the stress field divided by the twist rotation. The latter has
... [Show full abstract] been evaluated by performing a domain integral. In this paper, taking advantage of the aforementioned potential function, it is possible, by applying CVBEM, to evaluate the complete stress distribution and the twist rotation of the cross section and the torsional stiffness factor, performing line integrals only. Numerical results were compared with both analytical and numerical results proposed by other authors, thus assessing the validity of the proposed method.
