In FE analysis, the aerospace industry continues to make common use of 1D bending elements such as CBAR and CBEAM elements. In particular, aerospace FE analysts use CBAR elements extensively in global loads models. However, the CBAR element has deficiencies compared to its more modern replacement, the CBEAM element. Some FEA software providers recommend CBEAM over CBAR for many important use cases. (see Outside References at the end of the presentation).

This document will layout some of the risks (and possible errors) that may be introduced by using CBAR elements rather than CBEAM elements.