Analysis Software 1

[SnTMan]

Hello All. Haven't logged in for awhile, glad to see it's all still here.

I am looking for software to perform classic analysis such as beams, columns, etc. No FEA software.

Maybe you can direct me to a thread where this has been covered already, or recommend software such as Engineers Toolbox.

Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

Mike

 

[mrMikee]

SnTMan,

This is a popular topic. You should start out with the following threads:

thread507-111349 thread507-127434

In addition do searchs for the most well know programs in order to get an array of opinions. Some of these would be RISA, SAP2000, Multiframe, STAAD, GT-Strudl, etc.

I have used the following:

CADRE Analytic. I like this program, surprisingly good for the money ($142), no code checking, a little weak with multiple load cases.

SAP2000. Nice looking. I really wanted to like this program but it was not very intuitive.

RISA. Easier than SAP2000, actually a pretty good interface.

Multiframe3D. I've used this one the most. It's very fast and intuitive for creating geometry.

These are my opinions based on the experience of one person, me. Hopefully you will get a full load of opinions and additional resourses, but it depends a lot on what it is you want to do. In my opinion no one should be doing these calcs by hand if they don't want to. If nothing else, get CADRE.

Regards,
-Mike

 

[GregLocock]

Given that he specifically does not want FEA software, that list is redundant.

Cheers

Greg Locock

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[mrMikee]

Greg,

I guess the answer to that question is, it depends. I assume no FEA means no shells or solid modelling type elements. But how the program solves the problem, with either a FEA solver of some kind or simply a stiffness matrix approach, is not necessarily important to the user. And who really knows what's "under the hood."

But maybe I missed the point here. That's happened a few times lately.

Regards,
-Mike

PS: I checked the manual for Multiframe and it uses a stiffness matix approach.

 

[SnTMan]

mr Mikee, Greglocock thanks for the replies.

Let me clarify somewhat. I am looking for low cost software to perform classical strentgh-of-materials type calculations (like in your college textbooks) on beams, shafts, columns, etc. It is always interesting and satisfying to do these by hand, but who has the time?

I would like, for example, to be able to define a beam section and loading and let the program calculate section properties and beam stresses and deflections.

I am not interested in FEA software for three reasons:
1) Cost - I don't want to spend $2000 for a program
2) 3D - not necessary and I don't want to have to create a 3D model to run a calculation
3) Most Important - I don't know HOW to run it!

One of the programs (suites) I find interesting is Engineers Toolbox, but there may be others worth consideration.

Anybody have any further suggestions, input?

Thanks again,

Mike

 

[mrMikee]

SnTMan,

This discussion might be more to your interests.. thread507-132180

-Mike

 

[BillPSU]

MD Solids is what I think you want.

http://www.mdsolids.com/

You can download a trial version.