Does RAM Elements calculate the elongation of steel beams and steel bar joists due to temperature changes? I'm working on a project that has a High Temperature of 93F, a Mean Temperature of 58F, and a Low Temperature of -2F. The Temperature Difference would be 35F or 60F. Would I need to create two models - one model having Temp.1 = 35F and the other model having Temp.1 = 60F? Where may I find the elongation results?
Thank you for your help.
You would need two load cases (or two models) to represent two temperature changes. Thermal loading works for beams and for steel joists, but the area for steel joists along with length and material properties is all that matters. In other words, we don't have a full truss in the model to analyze when using OWS_Joist sections.
Thank you, Seth. Are there any thermal loading examples or step-by-step guides?
No, this is not covered in tutorials. Click F1 to get help on the data entry for member - temperature loads.
Thank you. I assume I must selet the appropriate members, assign any temperature loads, and analyze the model. Where may I find the elongation results?
Right. You will probably be most interested in nodal displacements (or relative displacements), or member forces (axial) or reactions. it all depends on if the model is constrained or free to expand. You can get thay through the View Menu, or Analysis Output reports.