November 4, 2022

Web Opening Design for Steel & Composite Steel Beams

RISAFloor now includes the ability to design web openings (with and without reinforcement) for steel and composite steel beams according to the AISC design code. To learn more, view the video below.

For more information about web opening design in RISAFloor, search Web Openings in the RISAFloor Help File.

RISA Help File

Tags: RISAFloor, New, Steel, Composite Steel, Popular

March 30, 2020 | RISA-3D, New, Steel

How Can I Optimize My Members in RISA-3D?

In RISA-3D when drawing members you must start with initial sizes. After loading and load combinations are completed the model is solved and then member design must be done, making sure that members pass for both strength and serviceability considerations. For both strength and serviceability considerations, RISA-3D has the ability to provide Suggested Design results to help optimize member design. To access the suggested design, first make sure that results are available and then click on the Suggested Design button found on the Results tab. These suggested shapes are either based on Section Sets if used, or on individual members. For Section Sets the program will find the worst case member code check within each Section Set. Based on that member the program will provide a suggestion of a shape that will work that is either bigger or smaller depending on whether the code check is failing or passing by a large margin. For individual members, the suggestion is made based just on that member. If a member or Section Set does not show up in the list that tells you that either the current section is optimal or a section cannot be found to meet strength criteria. If you…

February 4, 2025 | Featured, ADAPT, Structural Engineering

Making the Switch: Your Guide from RAM Concept to ADAPT-Builder

Transitioning from one structural engineering software to another can seem daunting, but with careful planning and the right resources, the process can be both efficient and rewarding. If your firm is considering moving from RAM Concept to ADAPT-Builder for concrete structure design and analysis, this guide will walk you through the transition step by step. Let’s explore how to make the switch seamless, including tips for importing existing models, utilizing training resources, and enhancing your BIM workflows with ADAPT-Builder. Step 1: Understand Why You’re Switching Before diving into the transition, it’s crucial to understand your firm’s goals. ADAPT-Builder offers advanced post-tensioned (PT) concrete design capabilities, enhanced integration with BIM workflows, and tools for modeling complex slab systems. Clearly defining the benefits you hope to achieve will help guide your transition plan and team buy-in. Step 2: Preparing Your Existing Models for Import While RAM Concept and ADAPT-Builder are different platforms, many of your existing models can be leveraged to streamline your workflow. Follow these tips to make the process smoother: Export from RAM Concept: Export your models in an interoperable format, such as DXF for geometry or Excel for load and design data. Check Data Consistency: Ensure that geometry, loads,…

March 10, 2021 | New Release, New, Composite Steel, RISACalc

Composite Steel Beam Design in RISACalc

Composite steel beam design is now available in RISACalc per the AISC and CSA steel design manuals with the following supported steel codes: American Codes: AISC 15th (360-16): ASD & LRFD AISC 14th (360-10): ASD & LRFD AISC 13th (360-05): ASD & LRFD AISC 9th: ASD AISC 3rd: LRFD AISC 2nd: LRFD Canadian Codes: CSA S16-14 CSA S16-09 CSA S16-05 CSA S16-01 Within the RISACalc interface, you can easily set up all the parameters necessary to perform composite steel beam design, including member size, camber criteria, steel deck information, headed stud and information about the adjacent framing. Each of the parameters can also be viewed graphically, providing instant feedback of the complete design criteria. Defining Composite Beam Properties To begin defining the properties, users can quickly choose the required beam shape from the drop down menu or can easily type in the size of the member under consideration. In the case of camber, RISACalc allows for optimization or explicit definition in the case where an existing member needs to be evaluated. Additionally, metal deck profiles from the Verco or Vulcraft catalogs are specified along with the deck angle and concrete properties. Users can also uncheck the metal deck option if…