Umudike Journal of Engineering and Technology

A Finite – Element Stiffness Matrix for analyzing Euler-Bernoulli beam on Winkler foundation is presented.  The element stiffness matrix formulated is based on the exact solution of the differential equation governing the displacements whose arbitrary constants were obtained using the initial value method.  Small displacement theory and linear – elastic material are assumed. Using this element, the behaviour of the Winkler foundation is investigated. The usefulness of these finite-element formulations in the analysis of reinforced concrete structures with particular emphasis on continuous footings is documented by numerical example whose results are compared with those of the Initial Value Method. It is shown that the, displacements and internal stresses obtained using the Finite Element Method(FEM) compare well with those of the Initial Value Method .However, there were tolerable differences in the deflections with the Initial Value Method on the larger side. The deflection requirements are readily satisfied once they are satisfied by the Initial value Method. Therefore, the results of this Finite-Element Analysis are exact for Winkler’s assumption.