Bentley RAM Structural System vs. CSC Fastrak

[dgboley]

We were looking at updating our 3-D analysis software, we were looking at choosing either Bentley RAM Structural System or CSC Fastrak. We are trying to locate something that compares the pros and the cons of both products. Could anyone shed some light on some of the advantages and disadvantages of these products.

Thank you,
Dennis Boley

 

[SethGuthrie]

I've been providing technical support for the Ram products for about 12 years now and I would be happy to go over the program capabilities and limitations any time. In a nut shell, most people find RAM SS to be intuitive and quick for most any kind of building. Multi story structures, especially those with composite framing, open web steel joists or a combination of materials, represent the case where RAM SS will save you the most time and effort on the design side of things. We also link with Revit or various other CAD platforms to help with the drawings.

 

[dgboley]

What would the disadvantages to RISA or Fastrak be? What do their program have problems designing or analyzing?

Dennis

 

[SethGuthrie]

One common advantage is the separation of the lateral framing from the gravity-only members. This allows us to design the gravity members, even as composite shapes, for tributary loads (which are generally modeled as surface loads on a deck) without increasing the number of finite elements required for the lateral analysis.
When it comes to the lateral analysis and design we perform a complete direct analysis approach (notional loads, P-Delta analysis, 'tau' stiffness reduction and redundancy factors) and include every aspect of design through the special seismic provisions.

 

[Ussuri]

This type of question and is often asked in the structural forum. I would suggest doing a search of the site first, and then try posting in that forum. I think you will get more repsonses.

I suspect the general consensus will be either RISA or RAM, probably RISA.

Personally I have never come across either of them, but then I'm in the UK and I understand RISA/RAM are typically written for the US market. I think CSC are a UK based company so not sure how familiar they are to US engineers.