When modeling a two way slab is it needed for the beams to be defined as lateral or can I leave them as gravity. I have my concrete columns modeled as lateral since they are transferring onto steel columns. I just want to confirm that all the loads are being applied.
The analysis (load distribution) is only done in Ram Frame or in Ram Concrete analysis mode, hence gravity steel beams are ignored under two-way decks.Here is a Wiki on how two way decks works: https://communities.bentley.com/products/ram-staad/w/structural_analysis_and_design__wiki/3262/ramss-two-way-decks-tn
What about the gravity concrete beams? Will they be included in the analysis for load distribution? When I look at the beam line load diagram there is no Live Load on it.
In the Ram Concrete analysis only, the gravity beams will be in the finite element model and will share the load. See: https://communities.bentley.com/products/ram-staad/w/structural_analysis_and_design__wiki/6513/ram-ss---analysis-types-tn
But the Beam Load Diagram in Ram Concrete is only the "determinate" part of the load, i.e. loads from one-way deck, self-weight or reactions from simple span members supporting only one way deck. See: https://communities.bentley.com/products/ram-staad/w/structural_analysis_and_design__wiki/9430/ram-concrete-beam-faq
Answer Verified By: Timothy Schuster