RAM Structural Systems
RAM Structural Systems
(OP)
I recently started a new job and I would like advice about RAM Structural Systems from those of you that use it.
Do you like it? What are the program's strengths?
Has anyone done the benchmark problems required by AISC in the commentary for Appendix 7?
What traps and pitfalls do you need to look out for?
Thanks.
Do you like it? What are the program's strengths?
Has anyone done the benchmark problems required by AISC in the commentary for Appendix 7?
What traps and pitfalls do you need to look out for?
Thanks.






RE: RAM Structural Systems
RE: RAM Structural Systems
I don't recall whether it will carry out the rigorous 2nd order analysis, but when you enter the Frame submodule, you can specify which code to use to analyze the lateral members.
There are a few little tips and analysis peculiarities that you should be aware of (for example, RAM SS is perfectly capable of designing, say a W16x31 with 56 studs, when you could choose a W18x35 with 10 studs instead- these sorts of issues must be addressed manually); get some advice from some more senior engineers, but in general it's pretty good.
RE: RAM Structural Systems
If using RAM Elements, I just break members that I'm concerned into 6-10 pieces depending on their length.
RE: RAM Structural Systems
Also, I will say that RAM's technical support staff is very helpful and readily available. They are all very nice people deal with (except for one guy who is sorta condescending). Also, they seem to be catching up with ADAPT with their abilities to handle concrete structures.
I really don't understand why RAM can't break the members into smaller pieces automatically to handle P-small delta effects. Seems like something they need incorporate into RAM Frame.
RE: RAM Structural Systems
RE: RAM Structural Systems
RE: RAM Structural Systems