Wind Load Software

[EIT2]

I have been referred, by a fellow forum member, to a wind analysis program called "SDG Wind Loads on Structures 2002". For a cost of approximately $500.00, this member refers to this as "An excellent program for wind analysis."

I have the demo for this program and I find some features either awkward to use or unusable in demo mode. I realize this IS a demo and this is expected. I DO want to purchase a program, if not this one.

Has anyone else had success with this or any other wind analysis program? Has anyone had any troubles?

What recommendations for Wind Analysis Software do you have?Please include name and cost.

Thank you!

 

[haynewp]

I have used SDG before for ASCE 98, it seemed to have a bug in the components and cladding.

I like this code spreadsheet better, even though they keep misspelling seismic in the sheet tab.

http://www.struware.com/products.htm

 

[ERV]

EIT2,

Exactly what are the difficulties that you are facing or what do you find ackward?

I use the program (full license) and find the program to be very accurate. I don't know what limitations the evaluation program has.

The program was developed with the technical assistance of Dr. Kishor Meta, whom also authored Guide to the use of the Wind Load Provisions of ASCE 7 (95, 98 & 02), published by ASCE Press.

Actually, I received the program through American Society of Civil Engineers.

 

[Lutfi]

I have been using SDGs software for at least three years. (SDG, please feel free to send me a check for my plug!! LOL) I like it and find it results to be fairly close to my hand calculations. I can generate wind loads using it very quickly (in matter of minutes).

I did find few bugs and they fixed them. It is what you feel comfortable with and what you get used to. Before using SDG, I used my own excel spread sheet and it did a fairly good job. I just got tired of updating it it every three years.

I used ASCE 7 universally for my wind loads since its use is permissible in many model codes.

Good luck

 

[EIT2]

ERV,

I believe this should be a credible program, especially while recognizing Dr. Mehta as an advisor.

The problem I am experiencing is when I choose a hipped roof and certain slopes, the program claims that, based on dimensions I have entered, it is impossible to draft the roof plan. I one example I entered dimensions for a square building with a 4:12 hip roof and the program drafted a ridge on the roof. An obvious glitch in the demo.

I will contact the company about the problem and take it from there. I wanted input from you people to see how dependable and satisfactory and bug-free the licensed version may be.

Thank you for your input!