Hi,
I am getting the following errors when I run a Design All in the RAM Steel BEAM/Joist module. In cases where I can't get true composite action, I still want to specify the minimum amount of shear studs. What does the module show when I view the design? The design as if the error didn't exist or taking into account the error?
1. Number of studs required exceeds maximum rows specified
2. Not enough studs for 25% composite action
3. Cannot fit enough studs for 25% composite action
4. Flange width inadequate for stud rows required
5. Rib spacing is greater than maximum stud spacing
6. Rib spacing is greater than user-specified maximum stud spacing
Also, why does the program specify zero studs sometimes (and then return error 2 above) when I haven't told it to do this? I have to go in and manually change it in these cases which is a hassle.
Thanks!
Take a look at our Steel beam FAQ
In it the first tip is to allow <25% composite action in the criteria so that you can evaluate beams as composite with fewer studs. Note, you have to assign the stud number and analyze as the program will never optimize a beam with less than 25% composite action when using US design codes.
If you want to allow any stud spacing, regardless of deck flute spacing, use a split or modified deck (Assign menu - Ignore rib spacing). Having a beam skewed to the deck such that only a few flutes cross any segment of the beam is likely the problem for some of those errors.
Finally, don't specify a max stud spacing that is too small to accommodate moderately skewed beams.
It seems like Ram doesn't allow me to override the 25% minimum requirement. I put 0% minimum in the stud criteria, but Ram still warns me of the 25% requirement and as a result stud number = 0.
I specified less than 25% in stud criteria but RAM does not acknowledge this and still try to meet 25% criteria