Structural Modelling Software 1

[CBEngi]

I currently work for a Canadian Structural Engineering Consultant. We are looking at expanding our modelling software and I'm looking for some opinions with respect to how each program preforms overall and if it uses the Canadian Codes.

We currently use SFrame and are looking at purchasing the SConcrete/SFoundation and SSteel.

I have done some research online and found some other programs that seem to offer the same package (i.e. a full program to offer general analysis, Steel design and Concrete)

The other programs I have noted that may include the Canadian codes are:
STAAD Pro
Robot Structural analysis (AutoCAD Plugin)

I also found these programs along the way
RISA 3D
ISEWEB

I am wondering what other people use, what they thought about the learning curb and how it performs overall. Throughout school we used SFrame and I'm fairly comfortable using the basic program. But we have completed a trial with SFoundation and I didn't find it that competent.

Our office completes a lot of one off projects, but we also do foundation design, concrete buildings and steel buildings for an idea of what we typically do, along with a lot of marine work.

Any comments would be greatly appreciated.

 

[jayrod12]

If I am understanding correctly you have 1 concentrated load at midspan causing bending, and 1 at the end of the beam causing axial. then you would be a 0.85. They are talking about loads acting in the same plane when they mean a series of point loads. And really they mean a series that is extensive enough that it could be analyzed as a distributed load if looked at on a large enough scale.

 

[850R]

You understood it correctly, thank you so much, that is what I thought as well, just wasn't sure.

 

[850R]

Guys,

For a simply supported T-section (W12x27.5 Flange class 1 Web 4) , I have a concentrated load applied across the minor axis, trying to check the bending, which clause applies? 13.5 or 13.6?

 

[jayrod12]

You can't check use a member with a class 4 web in bending. Only a class 4 flange, and even then you have to reduce either your section modulus or yield stress accordingly to bring the flange into compliance with class 3 requirements. It's a hell of a lot easier to choose a different section.

And why are you loading it in weak axis bending? either change the orientation or choose a different section type.

 

[850R]

Thanks Jayrod, I am now studying the Tee section, done with the channel section. Going over all possible load cases and checking everything.
That is why I was asking that case.
Why can't we check a class 4 web in bending? Does it say it somewhere in the Code? I must have missed it.

 

[jayrod12]

13.5.(c).(iii) - when the web meets the requirements of class 3.

Since your web doesn't meet class three you need to go to the next sub-clause, but alas, there isn't one. Which means, no go on the class 4 web in bending.

And you can only check laterally unsupported bending for doubly symmetric class 4 sections, not singly symmetric (limited to class 3).

For the record, you should really start your own thread when you have a question. I would be the original creator of this post is tired of receiving notifications for your questions.

 

[850R]

Thanks again, i was going to create my own thread but you guys wouldn't get notifications therefore i kept posting here. There is also "Turn off e-mail notification" option on the bottom left so receiving notifications shouldn't bother anybody if this is applied.