Applies To
	Product(s):	STAAD.Pro
	Version(s):	All
	Environment:	N/A
	Area:	Modeling Solutions
	Subarea:	Loading
	Original Author:	Bentley Technical Support Group

What is a Reference Load Case?

Reference Load is just like any other load case but with a significant difference. It is NOT a primary load case and STAAD will not analyze the Reference Load Case. The Reference Load Case can later be used to define primary load cases and also to define masses (related to rigid diaphragms and seismic/dynamic analysis).

The advantage of using the reference load case in models having non-linear analysis like a P-Delta or Member Tension/Compression is that it can be used to make the program analyze the combinations (REPEAT LOADs) directly without analyzing the individual component cases specified as Reference Load Cases. This can result in significant saving of time and computer resources.