Finding a single text that covers fundamental concepts, analytical mathematics, and up-to-date software applications for the finite element method (FEM) can be challenging. However, the second edition of Essentials of the Finite Element aims to simplify the search by offering a comprehensive yet concise resource suitable for newcomers to FEM or those in need of a refresher. This edition begins by explaining the basics of FEM and gradually introduces advanced topics, while also illustrating the practical applications of the theory in engineering. The book covers various specific subjects, including linear spring elements, bar elements, trusses, beams and frames, plates, heat transfer, structural dynamics, and buckling. Throughout the text, readers are provided with step-by-step detailed analyses for the development of finite element equations. Moreover, the book demonstrates the programming aspect of FEM, offering examples in MATLAB, EXCEL, CALFEM, and ANSYS. This allows readers to gain insights into developing their own computer code. Designed for a wide range of readers, from first-time BSc/MSc students to experienced researchers and practicing mechanical/structural engineers, Essentials of the Finite Element Method, Second Edition serves as a comprehensive reference text suitable for modern engineers.
Dimitrios Pavlou is Professor of Mechanics at University of Stavanger in Norway, and Elected Academician of the Norwegian Academy of Technological Sciences. He has had over twenty-five years of teaching and research experience in the fields of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, Fracture Mechanics, Finite and Boundary Elements, Structural Dynamics, Anisotropic Materials, and their applications in Engineering Structures.
Professor Pavlou is the author of titles, "Essentials of the Finite Element Method" (Elsevier) and "Composite Materials in Piping Applications" (Destech Publications), and guest co-editor of several international journal Special Issues and conference proceedings.
His research portfolio includes over 120 publications in the areas of Applied Mechanics and Engineering Mathematics (majority as single or first author). Since January 2020, Professor Pavlou joined the Editorial Board of the journal "Computer-Aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering" (IF=11.775, 1st of 134 journals in Civil Engineering – 2020 Journal Citation Reports).
He works as Editor for the journals “Maritime Engineering” (IF=5.952); “Nondestructive Testing and Evaluation” (IF=2.098); “Advances in Civil Engineering” (IF= 1.843); “Aerospace Technology and Management” (IF= 0.713);
“Dynamics”; “Aeronautics and Aerospace Open Access Journal” and “Journal of Materials Science and Research”.
He is also an Editorial Board Member for the “International Journal of Structural Integrity,” the “International Journal of Ocean Systems Management” and “Journal of Materials Science and Research”.
Eugenio Ruocco is an Associate Professor of Structural Mechanics at the University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" in Italy. He earned his PhD in Structural Mechanics from the University of Palermo in 2001, focusing on analytical solutions for buckling in stiffened plates and shells. He has taught Structural Mechanics and Masonry Structures at various universities, including the University of Naples, Second University of Naples, and the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli.
Dr. Ruocco is the author of the textbook "Scienza delle Costruzioni: il solido di Saint Venant," published by McGraw-Hill in 2011. His research interests encompass numerical methods and analytical solutions in various areas of structural mechanics. He has published over 100 papers, including contributions on buckling and vibration in stiffened plates and shells, linear and nonlinear beam models of third and higher orders, and isoperimetric and isogeometric boundary element methods in elasticity and plasticity. Sixty of his publications have appeared in indexed international journals.
Since 2022, Dr. Ruocco has served on the editorial board of the "International Journal for Computational Methods in Engineering Science and Mechanics" published by Taylor & Francis. He actively participates in multiple international research projects. Additionally, he has been a visiting professor/researcher at esteemed institutions such as the National University of Singapore (2015, 2016), University of Newcastle (2017), University of Queensland (2017), Government College of Engineering in Karad (2018), Escuela Tecnica Superior de Ingenieros de Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universitat Politecnica de Valencia (2019), Texas A&M University (2022), and University of Stavanger (2023).
