RF-STABILITY Add-on Module for RFEM

• Calculation of models consisting of member, shell, and solid elements
• Import of axial forces from a load case or combination
• Non-linear stability analysis
• Optional consideration of axial forces from initial prestress
• Four equation solvers for effective calculation of various structural models
• Optional consideration of stiffness modifications in RFEM
• Calculation of buckling modes of unstable models
• Determination of stability mode greater than the user-defined load increment factor (Shift method)
• Optional determination of the mode shapes of unstable models (to recognize the instability cause)
• Visualization of stability mode
• Basis for analysis using imperfect equivalent structures in RF-IMP

First of all, it is necessary to select a load case or combination whose axial forces are to be used in the stability analysis. It is possible to define another load case in order to consider initial prestress, for example.

Then, you can select the linear or non-linear analysis to be performed. Depending on the application, you can select a direct calculation method such as the Method by Lanczos, or the ICG iteration method. Members not integrated in surfaces are usually displayed as member elements with two FE nodes. It is not possible to determine the local buckling of single members on these elements. Therefore, you have the option to divide members automatically.

• Direct Methods
  The direct methods (Lanczos, roots of characteristic polynomial, subspace iteration method) are useful for models of small and medium size. These fast methods of equation solvers benefit from lots of computer memory (RAM). 64-bit systems use more memory so that even bigger structural systems can be calculated quickly.
• ICG Iteration Method (Incomplete Conjugate Gradient)
  This method requires only a little memory. Eigenvalues are determined one after the other. It can be used to calculate large structural systems with few stability modes.

The RF-STABILITY add-on module can also perform the non-linear stability analysis. Also for non-linear structures, results close to reality are provided. The critical load factor is determined by increasing the loads of the selected load case step by step until the instability is reached. Nonlinearities such as failing members, supports, and foundations, as well as material nonlinearities, are considered when increasing the loads.

The critical load factors are the first results displayed. They facilitate the evaluation of stability risks. In the case of member models, the module displays the effective lengths and critical buckling loads of the members in the second result window.

In the next result windows, you can check the normalized eigenvalues sorted by node, member, and surface. The eigenvalue graphic allows for evaluation of the buckling behavior. The graphical display makes it easier to take countermeasures.