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Component-Based Finite Element Method (CBFEM)
  • CBFEM
  • Steel Joints
  • Connections

Component-Based Finite Element Method (CBFEM)

The component-based finite element method (CBFEM) is a technique employed for the design and calculation of steel joints. This method utilizes computer-aided tools to determine the properties of connections in steel structures. By adopting the principles outlined in EN 1993‑1‑8 and AISC 360, CBFEM ensures that the design process is both accurate and efficient.

CBFEM seamlessly integrates with RFEM 6, offering the major benefit of managing all your structural designs in one unified platform.

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Steel Joints | CBFEM All-in-One Slider
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Overview
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CBFEM
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Features
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Results
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Standards
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Examples

Component-Based Finite Element Method

The component-based finite element method (CBFEM) is used for designing steel joints by determining connection properties based on the nonlinear material behavior and load-bearing capacities of individual components.

This approach accurately estimates the behavior of deformable connections, often resulting in more cost-efficient designs compared to rigid or purely hinged connections. Unlike conventional methods that rely on semi-empirical formulas, CBFEM uses finite elements to represent and connect components, allowing for precise stiffness determination and force distribution.

Base Plate Connection with Cast-in Anchors
Base Plate Connection with Cast-in Anchors | Results of Contact Stresses in Base Plate

Precision and Cost-Efficiency with CBFEM

CBFEM uses nonlinear material behavior to precisely assess steel joint properties and performance under different loads. This detailed analysis enables more cost-effective designs by accurately evaluating partially supporting and deformable connections.

Component Library

1. Library of Components

The constantly expanding library provides component templates that can be applied and modified easily.

Model 004975 | Steel Connection I-Beams

2. CBFEM Analysis Model

The model is exported along with the transferred internal forces from the global structural model.

Steel Structure with Steel Joints

3. Interaction

Add-on Steel Joints (using CBFEM) seamlessly links the joint design with the structural analysis on the entire structure.

Results on Component Model

4. Results on the Component Model

The stiffness of the connection and the exact distribution of forces in the individual basic components are then obtained by the (nonlinear) finite element analysis.

CBFEM Printout Report

5. Printout Report

The Printout Report customizes and displays Steel Joint Design tables and results, with options to filter data and arrange it with graphics in the preview.

CBFEM Features and Benefits

Experience unparalleled flexibility with CBFEM, allowing you to easily define basic components, their geometry, and material properties. It also offers extensive adaptability for defining contact and coupling conditions between components, and seamlessly accommodates complex joint designs, making it ideal for intricate connection geometries.

CBFEM imposes no limits on loading conditions for joints, as internal force distribution is calculated from a detailed FE model. This enables a comprehensive understanding of failure mechanisms by analyzing deformations, forces, stresses, and strains throughout the joint.

Steel Joints Library | CBFEM
In the Dlubal Center, there is an extensive library with connections available for the Steel Joints add-on

All-in-One Solution Using CBFEM Method

Steel Joints | CBFEM All-in-One

Geometry with Loads Transferred from Structure

Steel Joints | CBFEM All-in-One 2

Stress Results on FE-Model

Steel Joints | CBFEM All-in-One 3

Printout Report

Discover Key Advantages of CBFEM

Explore the benefits that make CBFEM the preferred choice for engineers and designers.

Enhance your calculations with CBFEM – Buy Steel Joints in RFEM 6!

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  • CBFEM integrates as an add-on for RFEM 6, providing the significant advantage of having all your structures in one place
  • Verifies load capacities against standards like EN 1993-1-8 and AISC 360
  • Precisely determines connection properties using nonlinear stiffnesses and load capacities
  • Greater flexibility in the definition of basic components
  • Enhanced adaptability when defining contact and coupling conditions between the basic components
  • Deeper insights into failure mechanisms through detailed analysis of deformations, forces, and stresses