What happens when we merge all levels of a column in staad RCDC?

When we merge all levels of a column in STAAD RCDC  does it designs the whole column for most crtical level or does it ignore beam moments?

  • Hi

    After merging the levels, the unsupported length of the column is calculated as per the beam exists at merged levels. Column design is based on the critical forces available from all levels.

    The question regarding the "does it ignore beam moments" is not clear to us. Why the Beam moments are required in column design except joint check. if you have query regarding joint check, please mention it clearly.

    In joint check, beam capacity is calculated based on end moment and used for flexural and distortional shear check. after merging the levels, if beam exists at any levels, joint check will be performed.


    for more details,please refer help content of RCDC for merged level.