Question:
How can I create a rectangular timber cross-section in the COMPOSITE‑BEAM program?
Answer:
The calculation in the COMPOSITE‑BEAM program for the design of composite beams is performed according to ENV 1994‑1‑1:1992‑10. This standard specifies a composite cross-section consisting of steel sections and reinforced concrete.
The design of composite beams consisting of timber and reinforced concrete is performed according to EN 1995‑1‑3. In this case, the time-dependent load states t=0, t=3-7years and t=infinity have to be analyzed in particular. These states are usually taken into account by means of impressed strains. This is done manually in the RFEM program. For this and many other reasons, it is not possible to design timber-concrete composite beams in the COMPOSITE‑BEAM program.
However, you can find a lot of information about the design of timber-concrete composite beams on our homepage; for example, here.