Elastic sectional stress analysis of variable section piers subjected to three-dimensional loads

► Model for elastic sectional analysis of variable section elements subjected to 3D loads. ► 2D sectional analysis is a viable alternative to full 3D analysis for variable section elements. ► Normal and shear stress distribution evaluations by solving two boundary value problems. ► No further complications if compared with the analysis of constant section elements. ► Practical significance of major interest for the analysis of hydraulic structures.