RAM Structural Systems 1

[DHKpeWI]

I recently started a new job and I would like advice about RAM Structural Systems from those of you that use it.

Do you like it? What are the program's strengths?

Has anyone done the benchmark problems required by AISC in the commentary for Appendix 7?

What traps and pitfalls do you need to look out for?

Thanks.

 

[SteveGregory]

You might want to post this in the "Bentley: Ram" forum.

 

[frv]

Ram SS is particularly good with repetitive structures, although in theory it can do most any structure.

I don't recall whether it will carry out the rigorous 2nd order analysis, but when you enter the Frame submodule, you can specify which code to use to analyze the lateral members.

There are a few little tips and analysis peculiarities that you should be aware of (for example, RAM SS is perfectly capable of designing, say a W16x31 with 56 studs, when you could choose a W18x35 with 10 studs instead- these sorts of issues must be addressed manually); get some advice from some more senior engineers, but in general it's pretty good.

 

[Lion06]

All RAM programs use a P-Big delta only in the second order analysis. Once in the steel design module of RAM Frame, you have the ability to select B1 and/or B2 multipliers. If you use the P-Delta analysis, then select B2 only (I bleieve B2 is P-small delta, but please verify), and you're covered.

If using RAM Elements, I just break members that I'm concerned into 6-10 pieces depending on their length.

 

[abusementpark]

RAM Structural System is a very powerful assembly of integrated programs, especially when you add the interoperability with programs like RAM Concept and RAM Connection. However, like anything program you use, you need to spend some time browsing their technical notes to understand what exactly the program does. Since RAM does so many things, you may be a bit overwhelmed with the whole package. But in the end, it will save you a lot of time, especially on multi-story projects.

Also, I will say that RAM's technical support staff is very helpful and readily available. They are all very nice people deal with (except for one guy who is sorta condescending). Also, they seem to be catching up with ADAPT with their abilities to handle concrete structures.

All RAM programs use a P-Big delta only in the second order analysis. Once in the steel design module of RAM Frame, you have the ability to select B1 and/or B2 multipliers. If you use the P-Delta analysis, then select B2 only (I bleieve B2 is P-small delta, but please verify), and you're covered.

If using RAM Elements, I just break members that I'm concerned into 6-10 pieces depending on their length.

I really don't understand why RAM can't break the members into smaller pieces automatically to handle P-small delta effects. Seems like something they need incorporate into RAM Frame.

 

[WillisV]

B1 is little p-delta...

 

[Lion06]

Thanks, Willis.

 

[DHKpeWI]

Thanks everyone! I appreciate the advice.