Dlubal API (gRPC)

This article demonstrates how to initiate and conduct the analysis in the software, followed by a short discussion of the underlying concept.

The Steel Joints add-on for RFEM 6 has taken a significant step forward by introducing semi-rigid hinges, a feature that dramatically enhances how steel connections are modeled in structural analysis. This new capability enables engineers to go beyond the traditional rigid or hinged connection assumptions, offering a more accurate and flexible way to represent the behavior of joints. With the ability to simulate joint stiffness through advanced initial stiffness analysis, the design process becomes more realistic and optimized, paving the way for safer and more cost-effective projects.

This article discusses and compares the prying effect in three types of connections: a connection with ring flange, a full end plate, and a stiffened ring flange.

In the ultimate configuration of the steel joint design, you have the option to modify the limit plastic strain for welds.

Plates and structural elements can be precisely cut using the "Auxiliary Solid" component in the Steel Joint add-on. Within this component, you can use the shapes of a box, a cylinder, or any cross-section as a guide object.

Go to Explanatory Video

In the Steel Joints add-on, you can classify the joint stiffnesses.

In addition to the initial stiffness, the table also shows the limit values for hinged and rigid connections for the selected internal forces N, My, and/or Mz. The resulting classification is then displayed in tables as "hinged", "semi-rigid", or "rigid".

Go to Explanatory Video