Connection Design Software?

[jheidt2543]

Just wondering what connection design software my fellow engineers are using?

I've written my own spreadsheets for the little of this I normally do, but I'm looking at a much larger project where I would be doing only the connection calculations for a fabricator. I'm thinking about investing in a software program as a check and to speed things up and would like to hear your experiances with programs out there.

All comments are welcomed.

 

[abusementpark]

FYI, there are many useful spreadsheets for wide range of standard connections that are available for free at the website listed below:

http://www.steeltools.org/STEELTOOLS/STEELTOOLS/Home/

 

[Gumpmaster]

We have RAM Connection. The newest version (6.5) adds step by step code calculations.

It's actually very easy to use, and with the new calculations, it's pretty easy to follow. The only issues are limitations on the types of connections. You can pretty much do anything that's in the AISC manual, but anything outside that is a hand calc.

Bottom line is I like it.

 

[jheidt2543]

Thanks for the comments so far.

Abusementpark, there are some interesting spreadsheets there.

Gumpmaster, do you use RAM Connection as a stand alone program or do you interface it with other RAM design programs?

 

[mijowe]

I really like the steel connection software from descon. Doees all the checks for all configurations of bolted and welded connections.

http://www.desconplus.com/DESCONWIN_.HTML

 

[connectegr]

IMHO

Specify connections to be designed and sealed by a licensed engineer. Many engineering firms specialize in connections. Except in the simplest conditions this experience will save the project money.

http://www.FerrellEngineering.com

 

[rowingengineer]

connectegr,
I know that it is different in America to Aust for design ect, but having another engineer design the connections seems like a copout to me.

An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes which can be made in a very narrow field

 

[connectegr]

rowingengineer

As your own quote states, you cannot be an expert in every field. Economy of connection design is not taught in a classroom or steel manual. Our firm does not entertain architects or solicit design projects. But, we are connection design "experts".

http://www.FerrellEngineering.com

 

[mijowe]

I would love to get "expert" connection design every time i get steel shops. However, the quality we get varies greatly from project to project. I like having a good connection software to do quick checks