This paper presents the incorporation of shear deformation effects into a Generalized Beam Theory (GBT) developed to analyze the structural behavior of composite thin-walled columns made of laminated plates and displaying arbitrary orthotropy. Unlike other existing beam theories, the present GBT formulation incorporates in a unified fashion (i) elastic coupling effects, (ii) warping effects, (iii) cross-section in-plane deformation and (iv) shear deformation. The main concepts and procedures involved in the available GBT are adapted/modified to account for the specific aspects related to the member shear deformation. In particular, the GBT fundamental equilibrium equations are presented and their terms are physically interpreted. An I-section is used to illustrate the performance of GBT cross-section analysis and the mechanical properties are explained in detail. With the purpose of solving the GBT system of differential equilibrium equations, a finite element formulation is briefly presented. Finally, in order to clarify the concepts involved in the formulated GBT and illustrate its application and capabilities, the linear (first-order) and stability behavior of three composite I-section members displaying non-aligned orthotropy are analyzed and the results obtained are thoroughly discussed and compared with estimates available in the literature.
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