Modelling of existing RC beams

[kalianis]

I would like to ask if we can modell reinforced concrete beam elements using column elements instead of beam elements when assessing existing structures? The reason i am asking this is because in beam elements we can not give details in shear reinforcement (links) as it can be done for column elements. Thanks

 

[ishvaaag]

I would say yes, but no better thing than try. If you do, please share if you find something wrong about.

 

[ishvaaag]

Yet in such case specify the stiffness reduction of the (separated by label) beams that are modeled as columns as explained in Help for

Frame - Property Modifiers

Otherwise you may end with some wrong stiffness.