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KB 000660 | Creating Member with Variable SHAPE-THIN Cross-Section
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First Steps with RFEM
18 January 2021
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Description
In RFEM and RSTAB, it is possible to analyze members with a variable cross-section, which can also consist of freely defined SHAPE‑THIN cross-sections. For the determination of internal forces and deformations, the cross-section properties are interpolated.
Keywords
Dlubal Knowledge Base Variable cross-section Taper SHAPE-THIN section Stress point Dlubal KB Knowledge Base Technical Contribution
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Creating Member with Variable SHAPE-THIN Cross-Section
In RFEM and RSTAB, it is possible to analyze members with a variable cross-section, which can also consist of freely defined SHAPE‑THIN cross-sections. For the determination of internal forces and deformations, the cross-section properties are interpolated.
Screenshots
The model is constructed by means of parameters for geometry and loads and regenerates when the parameters are changed.
RF-/STEEL Cold-Formed Sections Module Extension | Design of cold-formed sections according to EN 1993-1-3
3D model of the butadiene storage sphere in RFEM (left) and the mode shape from RF-DYNAM Pro (right)
Product Features Articles

SHAPE-THIN | Cold-Formed Sections
SHAPE-THIN determines the effective cross-sections according to EN 1993-1-3 and EN 1993-1-5 for cold-formed sections. You can optionally check the geometric conditions for the applicability of the standard specified in EN 1993‑1‑3, Section 5.2.
The effects of local plate buckling are considered according to the method of reduced widths and the possible buckling of stiffeners (instability) is considered for stiffened sections according to EN 1993-1-3, Section 5.5.
As an option, you can perform an iterative calculation to optimize the effective cross-section.
You can display the effective cross-sections graphically.
Read more about designing cold-formed sections with SHAPE-THIN and RF-/STEEL Cold-Formed Sections in this technical article: Design of a Thin-Walled, Cold-Formed C-Section According to EN 1993-1-3.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why do I get large differences for the design of a longitudinally stiffened buckling panel in comparison with the German and Austrian National Annex?
- How can I perform the stability analysis in RF‑/STEEL EC3 for a flat bar supported on edges, such as 100/5? Although the cross-section is rotated by 90° in RFEM/RSTAB, it is displayed as lying flat in RF‑/STEEL EC3.
- How are the signs for the release results of a line release and line hinges interpreted?
- How can I create a curved or arched section?
- How is the rotational stiffness of a buckling stiffener determined in PLATE‑BUCKLING?
- How are hot-dip galvanized components considered for fire resistance in the RF‑/STEEL EC3 add-on module?
- In RF‑/STEEL EC3, is the "Elastic design (also for Class 1 and Class 2 cross-sections)" option under "Details → Ultimate Limit State" considered for a stability analysis when activated?
- How can I get the member end forces to design the connections?
- I would like to calculate and design "temporary structures." What do I need for this?
- How can I create a drilled beam in RFEM?
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