More general feature questions than an issue encountered:
1) Would it be possible for ram elements foundation module to account for a shared pier where two columns are in close proximity to each other (such as where a PEMB portal frame is next to a main building column)?
2) Would it be possible for ram elements foundation module to allow the user to set their reinforcement ratio? There are many situations in which the required pier size is much larger than the applied load and the allowance for 0.5Ag provided in ACI 318-14 10.3.1.2 would like to be utilized.
Thank you,
1) You can do this in the Combined Footing mode.
2) You can assign whatever reinforcement you like, but you have to that through the Detailing tab spreadsheet, not through a user specified ratio.
In response to 1- I am not sure how to do this in the combined footing mode. When designing as a combined footing, the 2 piers (1 for each column) automatically generate. I would like a single pier (pedestal) for both columns.
In response to 2- I did notice you could design the reinforcement as one prefers, however warnings trigger if the reinforcement ratio is less than 1%Ag. Its not a big deal design wise but when printing reports it would be nice to not have the warnings show up.
Yes, the combined footing module would use two piers even if placed close together. You are better off using the spread footing module with a single resultant reaction if the columns transfer to a single pier or pedestal that then transfers the force to the foundation.
Interesting! So if I have two columns in close proximity (for my purposes columns within 1'-6" col. centroid to col. centroid) I can assign a single spread footing and it will take the resultant force of the two? Not sure I fully understand.
If you are using the footing module stand alone, simply apply the hand-calculated resultant reaction. If you are trying to use the module integrated with the main Ram Elements file, then you would have to actually model the single pedestal and some connecting members to the 2 columns.
Yes, perhaps I should have clarified that I am using the integrated module. Is it possible that the feature I am referencing above could be built in at a later date? On large projects with multiple columns that would be designed with a shared pier I would think:
1) It would be troublesome to model the piers with links to the columns both since that would clutter the model and increase analysis and design time.
2) The pier would need to be located at the resultant of the forces in the columns which would likely vary based on combined dead, live, snow, etc loads. It could be more accurately approximated if it was modeled at the resultant of controlling load combinations for the columns.