RF-/STEEL Add-on Module for RFEM/RSTAB

• General stress analysis
• Automatic import of internal forces from RFEM/RSTAB
• Complete graphical and numerical results of stresses and stress ratios integrated in RFEM/RSTAB
• Wide range of customization options for graphical output
• Flexible design in multiple design cases
• Clearly arranged result tables for a quick overview after the design
• High productivity due to the minimal amount of input data required
• Flexibility due to detailed setting options for basis and extent of calculations

• Cross-section optimization
• Transfer of optimized cross-sections to RFEM/RSTAB
• Design of any thin-walled cross-section from SHAPE-THIN
• Representation of stress diagram on a cross-section
• Determination of normal, shear, and equivalent stresses
• Stress results of individual internal forces types
• Detailed representation of stresses in all stress points
• Determination of the maximum Δσ for each stress point (for fatigue design, for example)
• Colored display of stresses and stress ratios facilitating quick overview of crucial or oversized zones
• Parts list and quantity surveying

• Determination of principal and basic stresses, membrane and shear stresses, as well as equivalent stresses and equivalent membrane stresses
• Stress analysis for structural surfaces including simple or complex shapes
• Equivalent stresses calculated according to different approaches:
  • Shape modification hypothesis (von Mises)
  • Shear stress hypothesis (Tresca)
  • Normal stress hypothesis (Rankine)
  • Principal strain hypothesis (Bach)
• Optional optimization of surface thicknesses and data transfer to RFEM
• Serviceability limit state design by checking surface displacements
• Detailed results of individual stress components and ratios in tables and graphics
• Filter function for surfaces, lines, and nodes in tables
• Transversal shear stresses according to Mindlin, Kirchhoff, or user-defined specifications
• Parts list of designed surfaces

In order to facilitate the data input, surfaces, members, sets of members, materials, surface thicknesses, and cross-sections are preset. It is possible to select the elements graphically using the [Select] function. The program provides access to the global material and cross-section libraries.

Load cases, load combinations, and result combinations can be combined in various design cases.

The combination of surface and member elements and separate designs allows you to model and analyze only critical parts, such as frame joints, using surface elements. The other parts of the model can be designed using member analyses.

After the calculation, the module displays the maximum stresses and stress ratios sorted by cross-section, member or surface, set of members, and x-location. In addition to the result values in tables, the corresponding cross-section graphic including stress points, stress diagrams, and values is displayed as well. The stress ratio can refer to any kind of stress type. The current location is highlighted in the RFEM/RSTAB model.

In addition to the result evaluation in the module, it is possible to represent the stresses and stress ratios graphically in the RFEM/RSTAB work window. It is possible to adjust the colors and values individually.

Result diagrams of a member or set of members facilitate targeted evaluation. Furthermore, you can open the respective dialog box of each design location to check the design-relevant cross-section properties and stress components of all stress points. It is possible to print the corresponding graphic, including all design details.