RF-/JOINTS

Design of Steel and Timber

Connections

Manual
Version
October 2020
 Short Overview

1 Introduction 5

2 General Input Data 9

3 Steel - Column Base 20

Dlubal Software GmbH
4 Steel - Pinned 34 Am Zellweg 2
93464 Tiefenbach
Germany
5 Steel - Rigid 41
Telephone: +49 9673 9203-0
6 Steel - Tower 49 Fax: +49 9673 9203-51
E-mail: [email protected]

7 Steel - DSTV 58
Dlubal Software, Inc.
The Graham Building
8 Steel - Sikla 66 30 South 15th Street
15th Floor
9 Timber - Steel to Timber 73 Philadelphia, PA 19102
USA
10 Timber - Timber to Timber 96 Phone: +1 267 702-2815
E-mail: [email protected]
11 Calculation 104
All rights, including those of translations,
are reserved. No portion of this book may
12 Results 106 be reproduced - mechanically,
electronically, or by any other means,
including photocopying - without written
13 Result Evaluation 115 permission of Dlubal Software.

14 Printout 119

15 General Functions 123

A Using
Literature
the Manual 128

The program description is divided into chapters that describe the modules of the RF-/JOINTS
connections. The explanations are based on the order and structure of the input windows with
their specific parameters. General functions are described in the manuals of the main program
RFEM or RSTAB.

Hint Topicality

The text of the manual shows the described The high quality standards placed on the
buttons in square brackets, for example software are guaranteed by a continuous
[OK]. They are also depicted on the left. development of the program versions. This
Expressions that appear in dialog boxes, may result in differences between program
tables, and menus are set in italics to clarify description and the current software version
the explanations. You can also use the you are using. Thank you for your
search function for the Knowledge Base understanding that no claims can be
and FAQs on our website to find a derived from the figures and descriptions.
solution in the posts about the connection We always try to adapt the documentation
modules. to the current state of the software.

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Table of Contents RF-/JOINTS - Manual

Table of Contents

1 Introduction 5 7.4 Connection Types 63

1.1 RF-/JOINTS Add-on Module 5

1.2 Using the Manual 7
8 Steel - Sikla 66
1.3 Starting the RF-/JOINTS Module 7
8.1 General Data 67
8.2 Nodes and Members 70
2 General Input Data 9 8.3 Loads 71
8.4 Geometry 72
2.1 General Data 9
8.5 Details 72
2.2 Nodes and Members 12
2.3 Loads and Internal Forces 16
2.3.1 Loads 16
9 Timber - Steel to Timber 73
2.3.2 Internal Forces 17
2.4 National Annex 18 9.1 General Data 74
9.2 Nodes and Members 80
9.3 Loads 82
3 Steel - Column Base 20 9.4 Load Duration and Service Class 83
9.5 Geometry 85
3.1 General Data 21
9.6 Details 92
3.2 Nodes and Members 25
3.3 Loads 25
3.4 Footing 26
10 Timber - Timber to Timber 96
3.5 Base Plate and Welds 28
3.6 Anchors 30 10.1 General Data 97
3.7 Shear Transfer 31 10.2 Nodes and Members 99
3.8 Stiffeners 32 10.3 Loads 100
10.4 Load Duration and Service Class 100
10.5 Geometry 101
4 Steel - Pinned 34
4.1 General Data 35
11 Calculation 104
4.2 Nodes and Members 37
4.3 Loads 38
4.4 Geometry 38
12 Results 106
12.1 Geometry 107
5 Steel - Rigid 41 12.2 Design - Summary 108
5.1 General Data 42 12.3 Design by Load Case 110
5.2 Nodes and Members 44 12.4 Design by Nodes 111
5.3 Loads 44 12.5 Design - Details 112
5.4 Geometry 45 12.6 Graphic 113
12.7 Notes 114

6 Steel - Tower 49
13 Result Evaluation 115
6.1 General Data 50
6.2 Nodes and Members 53 13.1 Graphic of Connection in RF-/JOINTS 116
6.3 Loads 53 13.2 Graphic of Connection in RFEM/RSTAB Model 118
6.4 Geometry 1 / Geometry 2 54
6.5 Geometry Plates 55
6.6 Diagonal 1,1 connection / Diagonal 1,2 56 14 Printout 119
connection 14.1 Printout Report 119
6.7 Definition of Fasteners 57 14.2 Graphic Printout 120
14.2.1 RF-/JOINTS Graphic 120
14.2.2 RFEM/RSTAB Graphic 121
7 Steel - DSTV 58
7.1 General Data 59
7.2 Nodes and Members 62 15 General Functions 123
7.3 Loads 62

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Table of Contents RF-/JOINTS - Manual

15.1 Design Cases 123

15.2 Units and Decimal Places 125
15.3 Data Export 125

16 Literature 128

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1 Introduction RF-/JOINTS - Manual

1 Introduction

1.1 RF-/JOINTS Add-on Module

With the introduction of Eurocodes, the design of joints becomes more and more important. The
European standard EN 1993-1-8 [1] describes the designs of steel connections. The design of
timber connections is covered in EN 1995-1-1 [2] . The add-on modules RF-JOINTS (for RFEM) and
JOINTS (for RSTAB) combine the connection modules for member elements in a single user interface.
The scope of functions of the modules has also been extended and adapted to current requirements.

This manual describes the add-on modules of both main programs together under the name
RF-/JOINTS.

At present, RF-/JOINTS covers the steel categories Column Base, Pinned, Rigid, Tower, DSTV, and
SIKLA, as well as the timber categories Steel to Timber and Timber to Timber.

RF-/JOINTS Steel - Column Base designs footings of hinged and restrained column bases.

The Hinged Column Footing category includes the following base plate connections:

Simple column base

Tapered column base
Column base plate for rectangular hollow sections
Column base plate for circular hollow sections
For restrained column footings, the following design variants for I-sections are available:

Base plate without stiffening

Base plate with stiffeners in center of flanges
Base plate with stiffeners on both sides of column
Base plate with channel sections
Bucket footing
RF-/JOINTS Steel - Pinned performs designs for the following shear connections of I-beams:

Web cleat connection

Fin plate connection
End plate connection
End plate connection with cleat
RF-JOINTS Steel - Rigid designs the following moment-resisting connections of I-beams:

Beam connection to column with end plate

Beam joint with end plate
Beam joint with splices
RF-/JOINTS Steel - Tower designs nominally pinned bolted connections of lattice tower members
for the following cases:

Connection of diagonals without gusset plate 2D

Connection of diagonals without gusset plate 3D
Column joint with splices

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1 Introduction RF-/JOINTS - Manual

RF-/JOINTS Steel - DSTV designs moment-resisting and pinned I-beam connections in compliance
with the German guideline "Standardised Joints in Steel Structures" [3] [4] . The resistances are
determined according to DIN EN 1993-1-8 [1] .

For moment-resisting connections, the following design variants are available:

End plate without column (type IH/IM)

Beam joint with end plate (type IH/IM)
One-sided beam with end plate (type IH/IM)
Double-sided beams with end plates (type IH/IM)
Purlin joint with splices (type PM)
For pinned connections, you can choose between the following designs:

End plate (type IS), where applicable with notches (type IK)
Angle (type IW), where applicable with notches (type IK)
Long angles (type IG)
Purlin joint with splices (type PM)
RF-/JOINTS Steel - Sikla analyzes the connections for sections of the fastening system manufacturer
Sikla .

RF-/JOINTS Timber - Steel to Timber designs dowel, bolt, nail, and screw connections of timber
members that are indirectly connected by steel plates.

Hinged, semi-rigid, and bending-resistant dowel connections are available for the following cases:

Single member
Continuous member with connected members
Connection of several single members
RF-/JOINTS Timber - Timber to Timber performs the designs for screw connections of timber
members.

The following joint types are possible:

Single member or connection of several single members

Front to side
Front to front
The results including dimensions are shown in tables and graphics. Using the design cases, you can
analyze different design variants.

Since RF-/JOINTS is integrated into the graphical user interface of the main program, you can use all
the input data of the model as well as the internal forces for the design. Some modules also allow you
to consider connection stiffnesses and eccentricities when determining internal forces. You can visualize
the results in RFEM's or RSTAB's work window and include them in the global printout report.

We hope you will enjoy working with the RF-/JOINTS add-on modules.

Your Dlubal team

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1 Introduction RF-/JOINTS - Manual

1.2 Using the Manual

Topics such as installation, graphical user interface, results evaluation, and printout are described in
detail in the manuals of the main programs RFEM and RSTAB. This manual focuses on the typical
features of the RF-/JOINTS add-on modules.

The descriptions in this manual follow the order and structure of the module's input and result windows.
Chapter 2 describes the input parameters that apply to all steel and timber connections. The
subsequent chapters describe specific input parameters of the individual connections modules. What
follows is an explanation of the calculation as well as the evaluation and documentation of the results.
The manual concludes with a description of general program functions and information on the export
of data.

In the text, the described buttons are given in square brackets, for example [New]. They are also
pictured on the left. Expressions that appear in dialog boxes, tables, and menus are highlighted in
italics to clarify explanations.

As usual, you can use [Ctrl]+F to perform a full-text search in the PDF manual. If you cannot find what
you are looking for, you can use the search function for the Knowledge Base on our website to find
a solution among the articles about the connection add-on modules. You can also consult the FAQs
on our website.

1.3 Starting the RF-/JOINTS Module

RFEM and RSTAB provide the following options to start the RF-/JOINTS add-on module.

Menu
To open the add-on module, go to the RFEM or RSTAB menu and select

Add-on Modules Connections RF-/JOINTS.

Image 1.1 Menu - Add-on Modules Connections RF-JOINTS

Navigator
Alternatively, you can start the add-on module in the Data navigator by selecting

Add-on Modules RF-/JOINTS.

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1 Introduction RF-/JOINTS - Manual

Image 1.2 Data navigator: Add-on Modules RF-JOINTS

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2 General Input Data RF-/JOINTS - Manual

2 General Input Data

This chapter describes the input parameters that apply to all categories of steel and timber connections.
The following chapters describe specific input parameters of the individual connection modules.

When you open RF-/JOINTS, a new window appears. In this window, a navigator is displayed on the
left. The upper part of the navigator lists the design cases (see Chapter 15.1 ) with the selected
nodes, the lower part manages the windows of specific modules.

The input data is defined in several module windows. When you open RF-/JOINTS for the first time, the
following parameters are imported automatically:

Load cases, load and result combinations, and dynamic combinations

Materials
Cross-sections
Internal forces (in background, if calculated)

To open a window, click the corresponding entry in the navigator. Use the buttons shown on the left to
set the previous or next window. You can also use the function keys [F2] (forwards) and [F3]
(backwards) to go through the windows.

To save the entered data, click [OK]. RF-/JOINTS closes and you return to the main program. To exit
the add-on module without saving the data, click [Cancel].

2.1 General Data

In Window 1.1 General Data, you can define the basic settings necessary for the design of the
connection. You can use the filter functions to select the type of joint.

Image 2.1 Window 1.1 General Data

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2 General Input Data RF-/JOINTS - Manual

Material

Image 2.2 Filter for steel and timber connections

In the Material section, you can define whether you want to design a steel or timber connection. This
setting controls the available options in the other window sections.

Joint Group

Image 2.3 Filter for joint groups for steel structures

Image 2.4 Filter for joint groups for timber structures

This section manages the type of connection. You can select the desired joint group by using the
drop-down list or clicking the buttons with the connection icons.

The green dots in the icons illustrate which connection modules are in your license.

Joint Category

Image 2.5 Filter for joint categories of column footings

Image 2.6 Filter for joint categories of steel-to-timber connections

You can use the drop-down list or the buttons to select the relevant joint category.

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Joint Type

Image 2.7 Filter for pinned column base joint types

Image 2.8 Filter for dowel joint types

In this window section, you can specify the exact type of the joint. You can select it by using the
drop-down list or the connection icon buttons.

According to Standard / National Annex

Image 2.9 Standard and National Annex

Steel connections are automatically designed according to EN 1993-1-8 [1] and timber
connections according to EN 1995-1-1 [2] . Steel-to-timber connections can also be designed
according to ANSI/AWC NDS-2018[5] . In the list to the right of the standard, you can select the
National Annex whose parameters you want to apply to the designs.

The button opens a dialog box where you can check the parameters of the selected National
Annex. This dialog box is described in Chapter 2.4 .

Comment
In this text box, you can enter a user-defined note to describe the current joint, for example.

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2 General Input Data RF-/JOINTS - Manual

2.2 Nodes and Members

In the second window, you can select the nodes you want to analyze. In addition, you can define the
parameters of the members connected to the nodes.

Image 2.10 Window 1.2 Nodes and Members

Definition Type
You can import nodes using the Import from structural model option. The geometric parameters such as
the number and properties of the connected members are automatically imported from RFEM/RSTAB.
As an alternative, the joint can be Set manually.

Joint on Nodes No.

In this text box, you can directly enter the numbers of the nodes to be analyzed. You can use the
[Select] button to define the nodes graphically in the RFEM/RSTAB work window.

Multiple selection of nodes is only useful if they have identical input parameters. If there are different
design conditions, it is not possible to combine the nodes in this window. In such a case, you have to
create a new design case: To do so, click File New Case in the menu or use the and
buttons in the Parameters section below (see description for the following section).

If you select Set manually, the import of data from RFEM or RSTAB is disabled. A note that says
User-defined appears in the text box. Then you can enter the Parameters independently of the model.

Image 2.11 Defining a joint manually

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Parameters
In this window section, you can manage the properties of the structural components connected to the
nodes specified above.

Image 2.12 Parameters dialog section with [Show or Hide Inactive Members] button

Construction Status
In this column, you can classify members for the design. The available options depend on the selected
joint group and joint category.

Cross-Section Description
When importing nodes from RFEM/RSTAB, the member cross-sections are preset.

To change a cross-section, click its entry in this column to activate the text box. To open the
cross-section library, use the button in the text box (see Figure 2.10 ) or press [F7].

Image 2.13 Cross-section library

Chapter 4.13 of the RFEM manual , or Chapter 4.3 of the RSTAB manual, describes how to select
cross-sections from the library.

Modified cross-sections are highlighted in blue.

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Material Description
When importing nodes from RFEM or RSTAB, the cross-section materials are preset as well.

To change materials, click the entry in this column to activate the text box. To open the material library,
use the button in the text box (see Figure 2.10 ) or press [F7].

Image 2.14 Material library

Chapter 4.3 of the RFEM manual , or Chapter 4.2 of the RSTAB manual, describes how to select
materials from the library.

The buttons in the Parameters section have the following functions:

Button Function

Sets the default values for the connection

Deletes the node selected in the table above

Transfers the selected node to a new design case

Transfers all unsuitable nodes to a new design case

Sets the connection type for all nodes of the design case

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Shows or hides inactive members in the table

Shows the RFEM/RSTAB work window for changing the view

Table 2.1 Buttons in the Parameters section

The buttons and have an important function: If you want to design several nodes with different
boundary conditions, such as the number of connected members or the member cross-sections, these
buttons allow for a manual or automatic assignment to new design cases. You can then define the
parameters for specific nodes in the different design cases. Alternatively, you can also click File
New Case in the menu.

The design cases including the data related to the nodes are displayed at the top of the navigator.
Window 1.2 Nodes and Members always displays the parameters of the nodes selected in the
navigator list. To switch the design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

Graphic window
The graphic window presents an overview of the connections to be designed. It shows a dynamic
partial view of the model. The node selected in the Parameters section is indicated by an arrow; the
connected members are highlighted.

Image 2.15 Graphic with selection arrow

You can control the graphic by using the same mouse functions as in RFEM or RSTAB in order to zoom,
move, or rotate the view.

The buttons next to the graphic have the following functions:

Button Function

Shows the view in the direction of the X-axis

Shows the view in the opposite direction of the X-axis

Shows the view in the direction of the Y-axis

Shows the view in the direction of the Z-axis

Displays the isometric view

Resets to full view of the graphic

Table 2.2 Buttons in graphic window

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2.3 Loads and Internal Forces

The structure of Window 1.3 depends on the Definition Type selected in Window 1.2 (see Figure
2.10 ).

The input in this window always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To
change the design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

2.3.1 Loads

If you select the Import from structural model definition type in Window 1.2, you have to define the
load cases or load combinations including internal forces to be applied for the design in Window 1.3
Loads.

Image 2.16 Window 1.3 Loads

Existing Load Cases and Combinations

This column lists all the load cases, load combinations, and result combinations that have been created
in RFEM or RSTAB. RF-/DYNAM Pro combinations can also be analyzed.

The design of a joint requires a clear constellation of internal forces. For the max and min values of a
result combination, this is the case if the internal forces are superimposed with the criteria 'Permanent'
and 'Or', if necessary. It is therefore not possible to design RCs in which one or more actions are
classified as 'Variable'.

To transfer selected entries to the Selected for Design list on the right, click the button. You can also
double-click the items to transfer them. To transfer the entire list to the right, use the button.

To select multiple load cases, click them while holding down the [Ctrl] key, as is usual in Windows
applications. This allows you to transfer several load cases at once.

Load cases marked in red, such as LC 5 or LC 6 in Figure 2.16 , cannot be designed: This is the case
for load cases without loads, imperfection load cases, or invalid RCs (see above). A corresponding
warning appears when you transfer them.

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Several filter options are available below the list. They make it easier to assign the entries sorted by
load cases, combinations, or action categories. The buttons have the following functions:

Selects all load cases in the list.

Inverts the selection of load cases.

Table 2.3 Buttons in the Existing Load Cases and Combinations section

Selected for Design

The column on the right lists the load cases, load combinations, and result combinations selected for
the design. To remove selected items from the list, use or double-click them. To empty the entire list,
click .

You can select several items at once by holding down [Ctrl] and clicking them.

2.3.2 Internal Forces

If you have selected the Set manually definition type (see Chapter 2.2 ), you have to specify the
internal forces you want to use for the design in Window 1.3 Internal Forces.

Image 2.17 Window 1.3 Internal Forces

LC
The internal forces are managed in a load case. When you open the window for the first time, LC
No. 1 is preset.

You can use the button to create a new load case. With the help of load cases, you can specify
different constellations of internal forces for the design.

Member
In this column, you can enter a member number that facilitates the assignment of internal forces.

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Force / Symbol
These two columns describe which type of internal force is respectively applied.

Value / Unit
Here you can enter the values of the internal forces.

You can adjust the units and decimal places of the internal forces by using Settings Units and
Decimal Places in the menu (see Chapter 15.2 ).

The buttons below the table have the following functions:

Creates a new load case for additional internal forces

Deletes the load case selected above

Table 2.4 Buttons in Window 1.3 Internal Forces

2.4 National Annex

In the upper-right part of Window 1.1 General Data, you can select the National Annex whose
parameters you want to use for the design (see Figure 2.9 ). Click [Edit] to check the preset
parameters. The content of the dialog box depends on the specified material (steel or timber
connections).

Steel connections

Image 2.18 National Annex Settings - EN 1993-1-8/NA:2010-12 dialog box

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Timber connections

Image 2.19 National Annex Settings - EN 1995-1-1:2004/A1:2008 dialog box

These dialog boxes display various factors of the National Annex such as the material factor,
modification factor, and shear correction factor. Generally, you cannot change the values as they are
codified in the National Annexes.

You can click [New] to create a user-defined National Annex where you can freely define the factors.

The [Nat. Annex] button is available in every input window. You can use it to open the National Annex
Settings dialog box as well.

The buttons in the National Annex Settings dialog box have the following functions:

Button Function

Restores the program's default settings

Imports user-defined default settings

Saves modified settings as default

Deletes user-defined National Annex

Table 2.5 Buttons in the National Annex Settings dialog box

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3 Steel - Column Base RF-/JOINTS - Manual

3 Steel - Column Base

This chapter describes the windows that are particularly relevant for the RF-JOINTS Steel - Column
Base module. The general input parameters are described in Chapter 2 .

You can find two design examples for RF-/JOINTS Steel - Column Base in our Knowledge Base:
https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001430
https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001468

The input windows of the add-on module are accessible once you select the material Steel and the joint
group Column Base.

Image 3.1 RF-JOINTS Steel - Column Base add-on module

The input always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

If the entries Footing, Base Plate, Anchors, etc. are missing in the navigator, go to Window 1.2 Nodes
and Members and check if the boundary conditions required to input the column base are correct. For
example, it may be necessary to deactivate connected members for the design (see Figure 3.8 ).

The input windows of the RF-JOINTS Steel - Column Base module are divided into two parts: On the left
you can find the input parameters of the footing; they are illustrated by graphics on the right (see
Figure 3.9 ). The upper graphic shows a system sketch of the current parameter, the lower graphic
shows a 3D visualization of the column base model.

Image 3.2 3D visualization of column base

The buttons below the 3D graphic are described in the following table.

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Button Function

Shows or hides the dimensioning

Displays the values or symbols of the dimensioning

Shows the view in the direction of the X-axis

Shows the view in the opposite direction of the X-axis

Shows the view in the direction of the Y-axis

Shows the view in the direction of the Z-axis

Sets the isometric view

Resets to full view of the graphic

Shows or hides irrelevant parts of the window

Table 3.1 Buttons of 3D graphic

3.1 General Data

Image 3.3 Window 1.1 General Data

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Joint Category

Image 3.4 Joint category

You have to specify whether a Hinged or Restrained column base is present. You can select the
category by using the drop-down list or clicking the buttons with the connection icons.

Joint Type
The available options depend on the joint category.

Image 3.5 Joint Type section for Hinged Column Footing category

The Hinged Column Footing category provides the following design variants:

Column base plate without stiffening

Tapered column base

Column base plate for rectangular hollow sections

Column base plate for circular hollow sections

Table 3.2 Joint types for hinged column footings

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Image 3.6 Joint Type section for Restrained Column Footing category

The Restrained Column Footing category provides the following design variants for I-sections:

Base plate without stiffening

Base plate with stiffeners in center of flanges

Base plate with stiffeners on both sides of column

Base plate with channel sections on both sides of column and web members

Bucket footing

Table 3.3 Joint types for restrained column footings

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Additional Settings

Image 3.7 Additional Settings section

When you select the Use the column material for other joint components check box, the material of the
column cross-section is automatically used for the base plate, anchors, and shear keys. In this case, you
cannot define the materials separately.

A plastic Force distribution in joint is assumed. Cast-in anchors are preset as the Anchorage type.

The connection between the steel base plate and foundation can be established by means of a Grout
Layer or a cast-in Anchoring Template (in preparation).

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3.2 Nodes and Members

The selection of nodes and members is described in Chapter 2.2 .

In the Parameters section, you can check the boundary conditions of the connected components. If
there is an Invalid cross-section, you should adjust the cross-section series to match the joint type set in
Window 1.1.

If several members such as diagonals connect to a column base node, the redundant members can be
set to be Inactive.

Image 3.8 Setting diagonal member Inactive

3.3 Loads
Entering loads and internal forces is described in Chapter 2.3 .

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3.4 Footing
In Window 1.4 Footing, you can specify the foundation parameters and define the position of the base
plate.

Image 3.9 Window 1.4 Footing

Footing
In this window section, you can define the material and dimensions of the foundation. You can use the
button to open the material library where you can find the properties of various types of concrete.

Grout Layer
Here you can define the grout thickness, the characteristic grout strength, and the friction coefficient of
the grout layer between the base plate and the foundation.

Anchoring Template (in preparation)

If you have selected the cast-in anchors option in Window 1.1 General Data, you can define the
dimensions of the anchor plate in this section. You can also set a welded connection of the anchoring
template and base plate.

Additional Parameters
Using the parameters of the Eccentricity of base plate, you can arrange the base plate eccentrically on
the foundation.

In this section, you can also specify whether there is an Edge reinforcement and what its form is.

The Cracks in concrete check box controls whether the calculation is performed with the concrete in the
cracked state.

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Restrained Column Footing - Bucket Footing

If you have selected the Bucket footing joint type in Window 1.1 General Data (see Figure 3.6 ),
Window 1.4 Footing looks as follows:

Image 3.10 Window 1.4 Footing for the Bucket footing joint type

Click to open the material library where you can select the materials of the foundation.

You can enter the dimensions of the foundation plate and the bucket in the individual text boxes.

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3.5 Base Plate and Welds

In Window 1.5 Base Plate and Welds, you can define the base plate parameters.

Image 3.11 Window 1.5 Base Plate and Welds

Base Plate
In this window section, you can define the material and dimensions of the base plate. You can use the
button to open the material library where you can find the properties of various steel grades.

Base Plate Welds

The Allow transfer of compression by contact between the column and the base plate check box allows
you to reduce the weld loading; the design force must be a compression force in this case. Tension
forces are transferred by the welds without exception.

The welds of the column cross-section to the base plate are applied as shown in the sketch at the top
right of the window. You can enter the parameters for the Weld on flange and Weld on web. For
rectangular and circular hollow sections, you can define the Weld on column.

During the calculation, the module also checks structural details. If, for example, the selected weld
thicknesses are too large for the base plate dimensions, a corresponding message appears.

Image 3.12 Conflict in structural details

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3 Steel - Column Base RF-/JOINTS - Manual

Restrained Column Footing - Bucket Footing

If you have selected the Bucket footing joint type in Window 1.1 General Data (see Figure 3.6 ), the
name of Window 1.5 is Column and it looks as follows.

Image 3.13 Window 1.5 Column for the Bucket footing joint type

The Base plate is welded to the end of column check box determines if there is a column base plate. If
that is the case, you can enter the parameters of the base plate and weld as described above.

You can impact the calculation with the Bearing of inner flange check box. By selecting it, the program
takes the elastic compression of the concrete into account. This affects the load introduction length.

If necessary, you can adjust the preset value of the Friction coefficient μ for the tension resistance.

The parameters of an Eccentricity of the column allow you to determine the eccentric arrangement of
the column in the foundation.

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3 Steel - Column Base RF-/JOINTS - Manual

3.6 Anchors
Window 1.6 Anchors manages the parameters of column base anchors.

Image 3.14 Window 1.6 Anchors

Anchors
The Number of anchors is currently fixed with two anchors (hinged column footings) or four anchors
(restrained column footings).

You can specify the Diameter and the strength Class of the anchors by using the drop-down lists.

There are three variants for the Type of anchors available. They affect the design resistance when
anchors are pulled out under tensile stress.

The partial safety factors for the design are controlled with the settings for the Bond conditions and
Installation safety.

Depending on the design of the anchor bolts, a reduction of the determined design resistance by the
factor βA = 0.85 can be considered according to [1] , Table 3.4 (see [1] , 3.6.1(3)).

Anchor Dimensions
You can adjust the arrangement of the anchors on the base plate by using the Anchor length
parameter and entering the Spacing from the edges of the base plate.

Other
In this section, you can specify the shape, size, and thickness of the Washers and Anchor heads. The
graphic on the right provides a dynamic visualization of the input parameters.

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3.7 Shear Transfer

In Window 1.7 Shear Transfer, you can enter the shear key parameters.

Image 3.15 Window 1.7 Shear Transfer

Shear Key
There are three options available for Shear transfer, but they cannot be combined at will: Friction,
Anchors, and Shear key. Select the corresponding check box to increase the shear failure resistance.
The friction resistance is considered if there is a compressive force. It reduces the existing shear force
so that anchors or shear keys have to absorb less shear.

When using a shear key, you can select a cross-section from the list that is available in the RFEM/
RSTAB model. You can use the button to define a different cross-section. shows the properties
of the cross-section. You can change the cross-section retroactively using .

You can define a separate material for the shear key using the button (provided that the Use the
column material for other joint components check box has not been activated in Window 1.1 General
Data). Thus, the materials of the column, base plate, and shear key do not have to be identical.

You can specify the length of the shear key in the corresponding text box.

Shear Key Welds

In this window section, you can enter the thickness of the circumferential weld that connects the shear
key with the base plate.

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3 Steel - Column Base RF-/JOINTS - Manual

3.8 Stiffeners
Window 1.8 Stiffeners is available for the following joint types:

Tapered column base

Restrained column base plate with stiffeners in center of flanges

Restrained column base plate with stiffeners on both sides of column

Table 3.4 Joint types with stiffeners

Image 3.16 Window 1.8 Stiffeners

Stiffeners
In this window section, you can define the geometric parameters of the stiffeners. You can use the
button to define the material separately, unless the Use the column material for other joint components
check box in Window 1.1 General Data has been selected.

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Trimming
For restrained column base plates with stiffeners, you can enter the length of the vertical and horizontal
trimmings.

Stiffener Welds
In this section, you can define the thicknesses of the stiffener welds depending on the joint type. The
individual parameters are illustrated in the 3D graphic on the right.

Horizontal Stiffener Welds

For hinged column footings with stiffeners, you can define a horizontal stiffener in this section. Select
the check box to activate the text boxes where you can define the thickness and the weld of the
stiffener in accordance with the sketch.

Restrained Column Footing - Base Plate with Channel Sections

(Stiffeners/Crossbars)
If you have selected the Base plate with channel sections joint type in Window 1.1 General Data (see
Figure 3.6 ), the name of Window 1.8 is Stiffeners and Crossbars and it looks as follows.

Image 3.17 Window 1.8 Stiffeners and Crossbars for Base plate with channel sections joint type

In the two lists, you can select the Cross-section of the reinforcing channel sections. You can use the
button to define a different cross-section. To subsequently modify the section, click .

The Material of the cross-sections can be selected in a library by using the buttons.

The Length and Gap between crossbars text boxes specify the geometric parameters.

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4 Steel - Pinned RF-/JOINTS - Manual

4 Steel - Pinned

This chapter describes the windows that are especially relevant for the RF-/JOINTS Steel - Pinned
module for designing shear connections of I and H beams. The general input parameters are
described in Chapter 2 .

The functionality of this add-on module is presented in a Dlubal webinar:

https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/learning/videos/000744

The input windows of the add-on module are accessible once you select the material Steel and the joint
group Pinned Joints.

Image 4.1 RF-/JOINTS Steel - Pinned add-on module

The input always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

If the Geometry entry is missing in the navigator, check whether the boundary conditions of the joint
are correct in Window 1.2 Nodes and Members. For example, it may be necessary to deactivate
connected members for the design (see Figure 4.6 ).

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4.1 General Data

Image 4.2 Window 1.1 General Data

Joint Category

Image 4.3 Joint category

The joint categories Beam to Column and Beam to Beam are available for RF-/JOINTS Steel - Pinned.
You can select the category by using the drop-down list or clicking the buttons with the connection
icons.

Joint Type

Image 4.4 Joint type

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4 Steel - Pinned RF-/JOINTS - Manual

The following joint types are available:

Web cleat connection - angle sections arranged on both sides of the beam

Fin plate connection - splice welded to column, arranged on one side

Short end plate connection - bolted connection via welded end plate

End plate connection with cleat for fixation (for Beam to Column category)

Table 4.1 Joint types

Additional Settings

Image 4.5 Additional Settings section

With the Joint is loaded by axial force in beam check box, you can control additional designs for
tension and compression loads in the joint. This setting is activated by default.

Pinned connections are somewhat special with regard to the ductility check: Several connections of this
joint group would have to be classified as Zone 2 (semi-rigid) when classified according to their
rotational stiffness as per [1] . Thus, they would have a certain moment resistance and would have to
be taken into account as springs in the structural system. In actuality, however, a hinge-like situation
occurs in the ultimate limit state because parts of the joint deform plastically. According to [6] , a
stiffness classification can therefore be dispensed with if the following criteria are met:

Sufficient rotation capacity: Ensuring geometric boundary conditions in order not to impede rotations.
Sufficient ductility: Ensuring that the joint can deform plastically and that brittle components such as
screws or welds do not fail beforehand.

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The two criteria are not included in [1] and are therefore not normative. It is therefore possible to
deactivate the ductility check. However, the rotation capacity is always checked.

You can find more information on ductility checks in the following technical article:
https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001128

The Category of connection is preset according to the standard [1] . It cannot be changed.

4.2 Nodes and Members

The selection of nodes and members is described in Chapter 2.2 .

In the Parameters section, you can check the boundary conditions of the connected structural
components. A section without I- or H-shaped cross section is marked as an Invalid cross-section.

If other members such as transverse beams or diagonals connect to the node, the redundant members
can be set Inactive, as shown in the following image.

Valid cross-sections

Image 4.6 Window 1.2 Nodes and Members: Setting post Inactive

Since the joint does not transfer any moments, there must be a moment hinge for the beam in RFEM or
RSTAB.

The column members can also be rotated by 90°.

If all members except the connecting beam are set Inactive, a connection is made to a so-called
"anchor plate". This allows for connections to invalid column cross-sections (concrete columns), for
example.

The modeling of an anchor plate is described in the following article:

https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001034

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4 Steel - Pinned RF-/JOINTS - Manual

4.3 Loads
Entering loads and internal forces is described in Chapter 2.3 .

4.4 Geometry
In Window 1.4 Geometry, you can define the geometric parameters of the shear connection. Default
values are already preset.

Image 4.7 Window 1.4 Geometry

Arrangement
This section manages general information about the connection. For inclined connections, the column
end can be adjusted. Furthermore, it is possible to adjust the Gap between beam and column and to
arrange the Notching.

Notching of beam
The position of the beam notching can be selected in the list. The other geometry specifications (length,
height, radius) can then be defined in detail.

Connecting component
The parameters of the connecting component depend on the selected joint type.

The preset web cleat connection can be changed using the cross-section library: When you click the
Cross-section of cleats text box, the button appears (see figure on the left). It provides access to the
cross-section library of RFEM/RSTAB where you can select a different cleat section (see Figure 4.8 ).

The Angle leg orientation can be adjusted using the corresponding list. Only a layout of the web
angles on both sides is possible.

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The Vertical position describes how the angle is positioned on the beam. You can select the position
using the list, which also allows for manual input.

Image 4.8 Selecting cleat section in library

Dimensions
For each joint type, you can define the specific geometry parameters (height, width, thickness) of the
angles, splices, end plates, and cleats.

Image 4.9 Defining dimensions of fin plate, bolt and weld parameters

Bolts on beam/column
The bolt parameters (diameter, strength grade, number of horizontal and vertical bolt rows, edge
distances, etc.) can be defined in the corresponding text boxes or using the lists.

For a simplified input, you can also specify symmetry conditions.

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4 Steel - Pinned RF-/JOINTS - Manual

Welds
For the joint types Fin plate connection, Short end plate connection, and End plate connection with
cleat, you can specify the weld thicknesses and lengths.

The end plate required for the static equilibrium in the case of a cleat connection must be welded to the
web and to the flange of the beam.

Joint category Beam to Beam

For the Beam to Beam joint category, you can define the geometry parameters in the same way.

Image 4.10 Window 1.4 Geometry for Beam to Beam joint category with web cleat connection

On our website, you can find a technical article in which various forms of pinned connections of
notched secondary beams with fin plates are discussed:
https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001532

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5 Steel - Rigid RF-/JOINTS - Manual

5 Steel - Rigid

This chapter describes the windows that are especially relevant for the RF-/JOINTS Steel - Rigid
module for designing moment resisting joints of I and H beams. The general input parameters are
described in Chapter 2 .

The input windows of the add-on module are accessible once you select the material Steel and the joint
group Rigid Joints.

Image 5.1 RF-/JOINTS Steel - Rigid add-on module

The input always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

If the Geometry entry is missing in the navigator, check whether the boundary conditions of the joint
are correct in Window 1.2 Nodes and Members. For example, it may be necessary to deactivate
connected members for the design (see Figure 5.6 ).

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5.1 General Data

Image 5.2 Window 1.1 General Data

Joint Category

Image 5.3 Joint Category

The joint categories Beam to Column and Beam to Beam are available for RF-/JOINTS Steel - Rigid.
You can select the category by using the drop-down list or clicking the buttons with the connection
icons.

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Joint Type

Image 5.4 Joint type

The following joint types are available:

End plate connection - bolted beam-to-column connection via welded end plate

End plate joint - bolted beam joint via welded end plates

Splice plate - bolted beam joint via splice plates

Table 5.1 Joint types

Additional Settings

Image 5.5 Additional Settings section

You can use the list for the Force distribution in joint to control whether an elastic or plastic distribution
of the bolt forces should be assumed in the joint. The default setting is Elastic.

The Use material of main beam for other joint components check box allows you to use a material
globally for all components. Excepted from this are screws, for which the strength grade must always
be specified. If the check box is cleared (default setting), you can define the materials for each
component separately in Window 1.2 Nodes and Members.

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5.2 Nodes and Members

The selection of nodes and members is described in Chapter 2.2 .

In the Parameters section, you can check the boundary conditions of the connected structural
components. A section without I- or H-shaped cross-section is marked as an Invalid cross-section.

If other members such as transverse beams or diagonals connect to the node, the redundant members
can be set Inactive, as shown in the following image.

Valid cross-sections

Image 5.6 Window 1.2 Nodes and Members: setting platform beam and bracing member Inactive

In contrast to the Pinned Joints joint group, it is not possible to rotate the column member by 90° for
Rigid Joints. The beams or columns connected in a node must always be connected in their main
plane. For a bolted beam-to-column joint, for example, this means that a beam perpendicular to the
web must be connected to the column flange.

Although the joint transfers bending moments in the plane, it is generally not a problem if the beam has
a moment hinge in RFEM/RSTAB on the node to be designed.

If all members except the connecting beam are set Inactive for the Rigid end plate connection joint
type, a connection is made to a so-called "anchor plate". This allows for connections to invalid column
cross-sections (concrete columns), for example. In this case, all design components that refer to the
"inactive part" of the connection are not taken into account (the anchorage in concrete, for example).

The modeling of an anchor plate is described in the following article:

https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001034

5.3 Loads
Entering loads and internal forces is described in Chapter 2.3 .

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5.4 Geometry
In Window 1.4 Geometry, you can define the geometric parameters of the moment-resisting joint.
Default values are already preset.

Image 5.7 Window 1.4 Geometry for bolted beam-to-column joint

Arrangement
This section manages general information about the connection. For example, you can define buckling
stiffeners or tapers on the top and bottom side of the beam at the column joint.

In the case of a splice plate connection, you can define the distance (gap) between the beams as well
as the vertical position of the web joint in this section.

End Plate
This section is available if the joint configuration has an end plate:

Rigid end plate connection for beam to column

Rigid end plate connection for beam to beam
Here you can define the basic properties of the end plate: Plate height, width, and thickness.
Furthermore, you have to specify if the end plate is "retracted" at the top or if there is a plate overhang.

If the existing joint configuration (also) provides a "retracted" end plate at the bottom of the beam, this
has to be controlled by the plate height.

If the Use material of main beam for other joint components option is deactivated in Window 1.1
General Data, you can also define the material of the end plate in this section.

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Bolts
This section is also only available for bolted end plate connections. Here you have to enter all the
important data concerning the bolt layout. The interactive graphic supports most of the input data, so
that changes in the geometry can be immediately understood. In this section, you can also define the
bolt strength grade.

Two or four-row joint configurations are possible.

Image 5.8 Parameters for bolts and bolt layout

Welds
This section is only relevant for end plate connections as well. You can define the fillet weld thicknesses
separately for the connection of the upper and lower flange to the end plate as well as for the
connection of the beam web to the end plate.

Fillet welds are always assumed; you cannot enter butt welds.

Use web rib stiffener

This section is only available for rigid beam-to-column joints. In it, you can specify whether there are
additional horizontal web ribs and where they are arranged. The Use web rib stiffener list allows you
to arrange one or more web ribs on the beam, in the column, or in both structural components.

In the other rows, you can define the geometric parameters that affect the dimensions and position of
the stiffeners. Furthermore, you have to specify the fillet weld thickness for the connection of the
stiffeners.

Image 5.9 Parameters for web rib and backing plates

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Backing plates on column side

For bolted, rigid beam-to-column joints, you can specify whether you want to reinforce the column
flange by backing plates in this section. Backing plates are described in detail in [1] Section
6.2.4.3.

After selecting the Use backing plates option, you can define the parameters that affect the backing
plates at the column flange in the rows below (see Figure 5.9 ).

Backing plates are inserted loosely. It is not possible to weld these plates firmly into the column
cross-section.

Column part
The Column part section is only relevant for bolted, rigid beam-to-column joints and is therefore only
available for this joint configuration.

In this section, you can enter all the information that is important for the design of the column
components. This includes the formation of the upper part of the column, the arrangement of stiffeners
in the plane of the upper and lower flange of the connected beam, as well as the option to reinforce
the column web with a web stiffener for shear loading (plate reinforcement or diagonal stiffening of the
column web).

Image 5.10 Window 1.4 Geometry with specifications for Column part

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Splice plates on flanges

The Splice plates on flanges section is only available for the Rigid splice plate connection joint type. In
this section, you can enter all geometry specifications for the external and internal splice plates.

Image 5.11 Window 1.4 Geometry for rigid splice plate connection

Currently, only splice plate connections that have external and internal splice plates on the flanges are
supported. Configurations that only have external splice plates are not possible.

Splice plates on web

This section is only available for the Rigid splice plate connection joint type as well. This is where you
define the geometric specifications for the web splices.

Bolts on flanges
This section manages the specifications concerning the bolt layout of a rigid splice plate connection.
Furthermore, you can specify the bolt strength grade and bolt diameters.

Currently, only connections with a uniform bolt diameter and with one bolt row per flange side are
supported. It is therefore not possible to enter four-row configurations.

Bolts on web
In this section, you can specify the bolt parameters to be applied to the web for a rigid splice plate
connection: Bolt layout, bolt diameter, and bolt strength grade.

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6 Steel - Tower RF-/JOINTS - Manual

6 Steel - Tower

This chapter describes the windows that are especially relevant for the RF-/JOINTS Steel - Tower
module. The general input parameters are described in Chapter 2 .

You can access the input windows of the add-on module once you select the material Steel and the
joint group Tower.

Image 6.1 RF-JOINTS Steel - Tower add-on module

The input always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

If the entries Geometry 1, Diagonal 1,1 connection, etc. are missing in the navigator, go to Window
1.2 Nodes and Members and check if the boundary conditions of the node are correct. For example,
it might be necessary to adjust the construction status of the connected members (see Figure 6.9 ).

The input windows of the RF-JOINTS Steel - Tower module are divided into two parts: You can find the
input parameters of the tower component on the left; they are illustrated by graphics on the right (see
Figure 6.10 ). The upper graphic shows a system sketch of the current parameter, the lower graphic
shows a 3D visualization of the node.

Image 6.2 3D visualization of node

The buttons below the 3D graphic are described in Table 3.1 .

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6.1 General Data

Image 6.3 Window 1.1 General Data

Joint Category

Image 6.4 Joint category

Only the Tower Structure Joints category is available for RF-JOINTS Steel - Tower.

Joint Type

Image 6.5 Joint type

The following joint types are available:

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Uniplanar joint with diagonals on one column leg

Spatial joint with diagonals on both column legs

Splice plate connection

Table 6.1 Tower - joint types

1. Alignment / 2. Alignment

Image 6.6 1. and 2. alignment

In this section, you can define the basic geometric shape of the joint for planes 1 and, if necessary, 2
(for 3D connections).

The shape of the letters indicates the number of members on the connection node and their function:

Major chord, minor chord, one strut

Major chord, minor chord, two struts

Major chord, minor chord, three struts

Table 6.2 Alignment

Image 6.7 K alignment

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Additional Settings

Image 6.8 Additional Settings section

The program uses the simplified Joint calculation hypothesis according to [1] Section 3.10.3 that is
applicable for single-leg bolted connections of angles subjected to tensile stress (see [1] Section 2.7
(2)).

You can select the Category of connection according to [1] Section 3.4 using the drop-down list.
The categories A to C are available for bolt connections with shear stress.

Category A: Shear/hole bearing connections

Category B: Slip-resistant connections in the serviceability limit state
Category C: Slip-resistant connections in the ultimate limit state
For high-strength prestressed bolt connections (Category B or C), you can select the Class of friction
surface from the corresponding list. The classes with the corresponding friction coefficients μ are
regulated in [1] Table 3.7.

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6.2 Nodes and Members

The selection of nodes and members is described in Chapter 2.2 .

In the Parameters section, you can check the boundary conditions of the connected structural
components. If there is an Invalid cross-section, you should adjust the cross-section series to match the
joint type and alignment set in Window 1.1.

Image 6.9 Adjusting the construction status of members

The Angle and Priority columns provide information about the connected members.

The angles are based on the geometric conditions of the RFEM/RSTAB model. If you select the Set
manually definition type in Window 1.2, you can enter user-defined angles of the connected members.

The priority of the struts controls the assignment for the input windows Diagonal 1,1 connection,
Diagonal 1,2 connection, etc. The digit before the comma indicates struts of plane 1 ("1. Alignment")
or plane 2 ("2. Alignment" - only for 3D connections). The digit after the comma numbers the
members within the respective plane. The order is not relevant for the design.

Example: Priority 1,2 means "plane 1, strut 2". You can define the bolt parameters of this strut in the
Diagonal 1,2 connection window.

When you click on a row of the table, the selected member is highlighted in the graphic.

6.3 Loads
Entering loads and internal forces is described in Chapter 2.3 .

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6.4 Geometry 1 / Geometry 2

The Geometry window manages the geometric boundary conditions of the members on the connection
node. There are two separate windows for both planes: The Geometry 1 window is responsible for
plane 1 ("1. Alignment"), the Geometry 2 window for plane 2 ("2. Alignment" - only for 3D
connections).

Image 6.10 Geometry 1 window

Diagonals Orientation
The arrangement of diagonals on a node is preset during the data transfer from the RFEM/RSTAB
model (see Figure 6.9 ). The text boxes in this window section are locked.

If you define the geometry and internal forces manually, you can enter a user-defined arrangement
and orientation of diagonals (see figure above). The check boxes and list entries describe the
connected leg and its position.

Joint Geometry
The Joint eccentricity describes the eccentricity of the diagonals. It is related to the intersection of the
cross-section central axes. As shown in the system sketch, positive values move the joint in the direction
of the loose column leg, negative values in the direction of the angle corner.

In the fields below, the local offset of the diagonals in the longitudinal direction of the member is
updated automatically.

The graphic on the right provides a dynamic visualization of the geometric parameters.

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6.5 Geometry Plates

If you select the Towers - Splices joint type in Window 1.1 General Data (see Figure 6.5 ), the
Geometry, Plates window appears.

Image 6.11 Geometry, Plates window for Towers - Splices joint type

Joint Geometry
In this section, you can specify the splice plate connection's gap size between the cross-sections.

Concerning the arrangement of splices, you can select External plates and/or Internal plates. The
system sketch on the right illustrates the position of the plates.

If you select the Dimensions of plates are calculated from the bolt spacing check box, the text boxes for
entering length and width of plates below the check box are locked.

The Material of plates can be selected from the list or in a library by using the button.

If there are different cross-sections, it is possible to Insert pads for external or internal plates in order to
compensate for the differences in thickness.

External/Internal Plates - Plane 1 / Plane 2

In these text boxes, you can define the Thickness, Length, and Width of external or internal plates.
Planes 1 and 2 are related to the two legs of the angle.

If you select the Dimensions of plates are calculated from the bolt spacing check box in the section
above, you can only enter the thicknesses.

During the calculation, the module also checks structural details. For example, if the splice dimensions
are too small for the bolts, a corresponding error message appears.

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6.6 Diagonal 1,1 connection / Diagonal 1,2

connection
In the Diagonal X,Y connection windows, you can define the parameters of the diagonals.

There is a separate window for each plane and member. The Diagonal 1,1 connection window, for
example, is responsible for plane 1 ("1. Alignment") and strut 1, and the Diagonal 1,2 connection
window for plane 1 and strut 2. The Diagonal 2,1 connection window manages the parameters for
strut 1 in plane 2.

Image 6.12 Diagonal 1,1 connection window

Bolts
You can select the Class and Diameter of the bolts in the respective lists. Only bolts of the same type
are permitted for each connection.

You can use the text boxes to define the Hole diameter, Number of rows (currently only one row),
Number of bolts in a row, as well as the Distance from the edges and between the bolts. The system
sketch on the right illustrates the individual parameters.

Welds
This section is intended for the weld parameters of gusset plates. Since these joint types are not
implemented yet, the text boxes are locked.

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6.7 Definition of Fasteners

If you have selected the Towers - Splices joint type in Window 1.1 General Data (see Figure 6.5 ),
you can define the bolt parameters in the Definition of Fasteners window.

Image 6.13 Definition of Fasteners window

Bolts
You can select the Class and Diameter of the bolts in the respective lists. Only bolts of the same type
are permitted for the connection.

The check boxes allow you to specify the position of the Shear plane and the bolt type (black bolts or
Fit bolts). You can enter the Hole diameter separately.

Dimensions in Plane 1 / Plane 2

There is an individual section for each angle plane.

You can use the text boxes to define the Number of rows (currently only one row), the Number of bolts
in a row, as well as the respective Distance from the edges and between the bolts. The system sketch
on the right illustrates the individual parameters.

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7 Steel - DSTV

This chapter describes the windows that are especially relevant for the RF-/JOINTS Steel - DSTV
module. The general input parameters are described in Chapter 2 .

The functionality of this add-on module is presented in a Dlubal webinar:

https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/learning/videos/000792

The input windows of the add-on module are accessible once you select the material Steel and the joint
group Typified joints - DSTV.

Image 7.1 RF-/JOINTS Steel - DSTV add-on module

The input always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

If the Connection Types entry is missing in the navigator, check whether the boundary conditions for
entering the connection are correct in Window 1.2 Nodes and Members. For example, it may be
necessary to deactivate connected members for the design (see Figure 7.7 ).

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7.1 General Data

Image 7.2 Window 1.1 General Data

Joint Category

Image 7.3 Joint category

You must specify if the connection is a Simple Joint or a Moment Resistant Joint. You can select the
category by using the drop-down list or clicking the buttons with the connection icons.

Joint Type
The available options depend on the joint category.

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Image 7.4 Joint Type section for Moment Resistant Joints category

The Moment Resistant Joints category provides the following design variants:

End plate without column

Beam joint

Single-sided beam on column

Double-sided beam on column

Purlin joint

Table 7.1 Joint types for moment resistant joints

Image 7.5 Joint Type section for Simple Joints category

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The Simple Joints category provides the following design variants:

End plate

Angle cleats

Angle cleats and large gap

Purlin splices

Table 7.2 Joint types for simple joints

Additional Settings

Image 7.6 Additional Settings section

The Perform ductility check check box is available for simple joints. You can use it to check whether the
connection to the load-bearing components fulfills the ductility criterion according to the European
Recommendations for the Design of Simple Joints in Steel Structures [6] . This aims to prevent a
premature and brittle failure before complete formation of the hinge in the connection.

It is only checked whether the design criterion for the bolts to the plate of the load-bearing structural
component is fulfilled. The remaining components of the joint – angles, bolts on the connected
structural component, and the connected component itself – are not checked, although they greatly
influence the ductility as well!

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7.2 Nodes and Members

The selection of nodes and members is described in Chapter 2.2 .

In the Parameters section, you can check the boundary conditions of the connected structural
components. If there is an Invalid cross-section, you should adjust the cross-section series to match the
joint type set in Window 1.1.

If several members such as beams, purlins, and diagonals connect to the node, the redundant members
must be set to be Inactive.

Image 7.7 Setting diagonal member Inactive

When the comment "Wrong geometry" is displayed, you have to check whether the joint geometry
meets the requirements of the typified connections.

7.3 Loads
Entering loads and internal forces is described in Chapter 2.3 .

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7.4 Connection Types

In Window 1.4 Connection Types, you can define the specific input parameters of the connection
according to the DSTV (German Steel Construction Association) type catalog.

Image 7.8 Window 1.4 Connection Types

The window is divided into two parts: On the left, the connection parameters are displayed; on the
right, they are illustrated by graphics. The upper graphic shows a system sketch of the current
parameter, the lower graphic shows a 3D visualization of the connection.

The buttons below the 3D graphic are described in Table 3.1 .

In the upper left section, you can see the connection types that are possible according to the DSTV
guideline [3] [4] . Each Type is characterized by its label and the used Size and Class of Bolts.

The connection type can be specified by using the check mark in the Used column. The Details section
below shows the parameters of this connection. The 3D graphic displays the connection geometry
dynamically.

If you click the [Suggest the Best Type] button, RF-/JOINTS performs a quick design of the connection.
In the last column, the Utilization of each variant is displayed (see figure above). It makes it easier to
select the appropriate connection for the analysis.

Details
This section contains all the information about the selected joint, such as the cross-section and plate
geometry, bolts, welds, as well as resistances and stiffnesses.

There are additional modification options for some categories.

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Connection types IH 3/IH 4

The extension of the end plate can be arranged at the top or bottom by using the Mirrored plate
option. This specification affects the results because the reverse moment may become governing.

Image 7.9 IH 3 connection with Mirrored plate option

Connection types IS/IW

Pinned connections of the types IS (connections with end plate) and IW (connections with angles) can
also be combined with the type IK (notches).

Image 7.10 IW connection with Beam treatments for notching (type IK)

In the other boxes you can define the geometry parameters of the notching: the Length, Height, and
Fillet corner radius.

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Image 7.11 Selection of geometry parameters for notching

The resistance of the end plate or angle connection (IS/IW) and the resistance of the notching (IK) are
analyzed for the design. The smaller of the two values is governing.

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8 Steel - Sikla

This chapter describes the windows that are especially relevant for the RF-/JOINTS Steel - Sikla
module. The general input parameters are described in Chapter 2 .

The module's joints are matched to the sections of the support system manufacturer Sikla . These
sections are available for selection in the cross-section library of RFEM or RSTAB among the rolled
square and rectangular hollow sections (see also Figure 8.9 ).

Image 8.1 Sikla cross-section in RFEM/RSTAB

The input windows of the add-on module are accessible once you select the material Steel and the joint
group Typified joints - Sikla.

Image 8.2 RF-/JOINTS Steel - Sikla add-on module

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The input always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

If the Geometry entry is missing in the navigator, check whether the boundary conditions for entering
the connection are correct in Window 1.2 Nodes and Members. For example, it may be necessary to
deactivate connected members for the design (see Figure 7.7 ).

8.1 General Data

Image 8.3 Window 1.1 General Data

Joint Category

Image 8.4 Joint category

You have to specify whether the joint is a Bracket or an End plate. Sikla refers to the latter as an "End
Support". You can select the category by using the drop-down list or clicking the buttons with the
connection icons.

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Joint Type
The available options depend on the joint category.

Image 8.5 Joint Type section for Bracket category

The Bracket category provides the following design variants:

Cantilever bracket – type AK

Beam bracket – type TKO

Table 8.1 Joint types for brackets

Image 8.6 Joint Type section for End plate category

The End plate category provides the following design variants:

End support – type STA

End support – type WBD

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Corner bracket – type WD

Table 8.2 Joint types for end plates

According to Standard
There are no setting options in this section. The connections are designed according to German Expert
Opinion (GS) with Test Report No. K14-6005-3.

Sikla's installation guidelines for connections contain information about the permissable load
capacity of typical Sikla structures for building equipment and industrial and plant construction. They
are available for download on the manufacturer's website.

Additional Settings

Image 8.7 Additional Settings section

EN 1993 does not give any clear recommendations for scheduled torsion. The two check boxes allow
you to completely Ignore the torsional stresses or neglect them up to a user-defined limit. 5% is preset
as the maximum ratio of the existing torsional stress τt,Ed to the torsional shear resistance τt,Rd. If the
value is exceeded during the design, a corresponding error message appears.

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8.2 Nodes and Members

The selection of nodes and members is described in Chapter 2.2 .

In the Parameters section, you can check the boundary conditions of the connected structural
components. If there is an Invalid cross-section, you should adjust the cross-section series to match the
joint type set in Window 1.1.

If several members such as brackets and lifting beams connect to the node, the redundant members
must be set to be Inactive.

Image 8.8 Adjusting the Construction Status

The only possible material is S355MC 1.0976 according to EN 10149-2, since Sikla products are
exclusively manufactured in this steel grade. Therefore, the model should be created with the
appropriate material in RFEM or RSTAB. The analysis in the RF-/JOINTS Steel - Sikla module does not
allow for any variants.

The Sikla cross-sections can be selected in the section library among the rolled square and rectangular
hollow sections.

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Image 8.9 Cross-section database for Sikla sections

When the comment "Wrong geometry" is displayed, you have to check whether the joint geometry
meets the requirements of Sikla systems.

8.3 Loads
Entering loads and internal forces is described in Chapter 2.3 .

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8.4 Geometry
In Window 1.4 Geometry, you can define the input parameters of the connection according to the
Sikla catalog.

Image 8.10 Window 1.4 Geometry

The window is divided into two parts: On the left, the parameters of the connection are displayed; on
the right, they are illustrated by graphics. The upper graphic shows a system sketch of the current joint
type, the lower graphic shows a 3D visualization of the connection.

The buttons below the 3D graphic are described in Table 3.1 .

The Joint type section shows the connection types that are possible according to Sikla's type catalog.
Each connection is characterized by its type code.

For the selected joint type, the Resistance and Stiffness are specified according to the technical
approval.

8.5 Details
In the Details dialog box, you can specify additional settings for the design (see Figure 9.35 ). This
dialog box is available in every input window using the [Details] button.

The Details dialog box is described in Chapter 9.6 .

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9 Timber - Steel to Timber

This chapter describes the windows that are especially relevant for the RF-/JOINTS Timber - Steel
to Timber module. The general input parameters are described in Chapter 2 .

The functionality of this add-on module is presented in a Dlubal webinar:

https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/learning/videos/000793

The input windows of the add-on module are accessible once you select the material Timber and the
joint group Steel to timber connection.

Image 9.1 RF-/JOINTS Timber - Steel to Timber add-on module

The input always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

If the entries Load Duration and Service Class and Geometry are missing in the navigator, go to
Window 1.2 Nodes and Members and check if the boundary conditions of the node are correct and if
load cases are available for the design. For example, it might be necessary to adjust the status of the
connected members (see Figure 9.16 ).

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9.1 General Data

Image 9.2 Window 1.1 General Data

Joint Category

Image 9.3 Joint category

In the list of steel-to-timber joint categories, you can select the following fasteners: Dowels, Bolts, Nails,
and Screws.

Joint Type

Image 9.4 Joint type

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The following joint types are available:

Main member only Fastening of a member to an existing structural

component (or any number of members) at any angle

With continuous Connection of a maximum of six diagonals to a

member continuous beam (Main member and Continuous
member)

Without continuous Free definition of a node with up to eight connected

member members

Table 9.1 Dowel joint types

Cutting - Main Member

Image 9.5 Cutting - Main Member

The secondary member can be connected symmetrically or asymmetrically to the main member.

Symmetrical connection at an angle of 45°

Main member cut by secondary member

Main member cut perpendicularly to member axis

Table 9.2 Connection options for main member

Image 9.6 Symmetrical connection (left), cut by secondary member (center) and cut perpendicularly (right)

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Cutting - Connected Members

Image 9.7 Cutting - Connected Members

When connecting two web members, the cut can be symmetrical or continuous.

Symmetrical connection

Continuous connection

Table 9.3 Connection options for secondary member

Image 9.8 Continuous connected member

According to Standard / National Annex

Image 9.9 According to Standard / National Annex section

The design-relevant coefficients are specified according to the standard (EN 1995-1-1 [2] or
ANSI/AWC [5] ) and, if applicable, the National Annex (see Figure 2.19 ). If you want to apply
user-defined factors for the designs, you have to create a new standard or National Annex first by
Selecting the standard clicking the button. Afterwards, the coefficients can be customized in the Standard Settings or
National Annex Settings dialog box.

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Image 9.10 National Annex Settings dialog box, Dowels tab

In the Dowels, Bolts, Nails, and Screws tabs you can define user-defined minimum distances between
the dowels, bolts, and nails, as well as the moment-stressed dowel, bolt, or nail groups. Adjustments are
necessary, for example, for the connection system of the company BSB, whose technical approval is
based on other values. User-defined minimum distances between dowel groups are useful for dowel
circles of a frame joint, for example. They are not clearly defined in the design standard.

In the Other Settings tab, you can adjust the shear correction factors kcr, if necessary.

Image 9.11 Other Settings tab

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Additional Settings

Image 9.12 Additional Settings sections for Dowels, Bolts/Screws, and Nails

You can use the lists and buttons to define the material grades of the slotted steel plate and the
dowels, screws, or nails.

If the SFS intec dowel system WS-T is used, the material grades are unmodifiably preset according to
the manufacturer's technical approval.

When you select the Check minimum spacing between dowels/bolts/nails in dowel/bolt/nail group
with bending moment option, the minimum distances between individual fastener groups are also
checked during the calculation. This applies to both circular and rectangular joints. The calculation of
the minimum distances between the individual groups is not regulated by standards. Therefore, the
minimum distance is checked according to [7] in this case. This value can be adjusted in the
National Annex Settings dialog box (see Figure 9.10 ).

After the calculation, the design of all minimum distances is shown in the details.

Distance between dowel circles

Image 9.13 Details for design no. 6510: Checking minimum spacings

With the Check contact of members after deformation option, you can check the deformation of the
entire connection. To do this, specify the distance between the timbers in Window 1.5 Geometry using
the parameter og.

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Image 9.14 Specification for Check contact of members after deformation

Design no. 6530 checks whether the total deformation of the connection is greater than the specified
distance og. If the design is not fulfilled, the members are in contact.

These contact properties are not automatically considered by the RF-/JOINTS module! Therefore,
appropriate measures must be taken in case of a design failure.

The Design of main member dowel/bolt/nail group from the sum of connected member internal forces
check box controls whether the design is performed using the individual internal forces of the member
ends or whether the resulting internal force is used that consists of two or more members connected to
the node. For the Main member joint type, this option is inevitably not available.

Image 9.15 Internal forces on member

In the constellation of internal forces in the figure above, the axial force -238.62 kN and the shear
force -9.60 kN are used for the design in the top flange without the sum of connected member
internal forces - for example, if the axial force of the connection is introduced directly into the support.

With the sum of connected member internal forces option, however, the resulting axial and shear force
are used for the design of the eaves node.

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9.2 Nodes and Members

The selection of nodes and members is described in Chapter 2.2 .

In the Parameters section, you can check the boundary conditions of the connected structural
components. You can also adjust the Construction Status, if necessary.

Image 9.16 Window 1.2 Nodes and Members - adjusting the status of members

The Angle and Priority columns provide information about the connected members.

The angles are based on the geometric conditions of the RFEM/RSTAB model. If you select the Set
manually definition type in Window 1.2, you can enter user-defined angles of the connected members.

When you click on a row of the table, the selected member is highlighted in the graphic.

This window is important for defining the priority of a connection. If you want the top flange of the
eaves node to be continuous, as shown in the figure on the left, you have to define it as the main
member (the Without continuous member joint type must have been set in Window 1.1).

Eaves node joint

Image 9.17 Eaves node with continuous top flange

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If more than two members are connected to a node, the following definition options are available for
the Construction Status of the members:

Main member - controls all other members as well as the cutting and its priority
Continuous member - only available for the With continuous member joint type
Connected member - assigns a lower priority to the member (e.g. strut, post)
Inactive - excludes the member from the design
When defining main and connecting members, it is necessary to observe certain geometric conditions:

Maximum number of connected members: 8

Minimum length of a member: 42 cm
Minimum angle between members: 15°
In Figure 9.18 , more than eight members are connected to the node. Furthermore, the angle of
member 26 is too small. The geometry of the connection is only functional if member 26 is set to be
Inactive.

Image 9.18 Functional connection geometry via inactive member

With the status Main member for all members, you can even connect more than eight members to the
node (see Figure 9.19 ). This is advantageous if you only want to design the connection in a
complex joint geometry.

For the joint type Main member, you can freely select the inclination, cutting, and eccentricity.

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Image 9.19 Connection of many members with status Main member

9.3 Loads
Entering loads and internal forces is described in Chapter 2.3 .

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9.4 Load Duration and Service Class

The moisture-dependent change in strength of the anisotropic material timber is determined by means
of the load duration class (LDC) and the service class (SECL).

Image 9.20 Window 1.4 Load Duration and Service Class

Loading
All actions that were selected for design in Window 1.3 Loads are listed. For combinations, the
contained load cases are specified as well.

Description
The load case descriptions make the classification easier.

Load Type
This column shows the action types of the load cases as they were defined in RFEM or RSTAB during
their creation. They form the basis for the default settings in the next column.

Load Duration Class LDC

The designs require you to assign the loads and their superpositions to particular load duration classes.
The classification of actions is described in [2] Table 2.1.

For load cases and result combinations, you can change the load duration using the list. For load
combinations and Or result combinations, RF-/JOINTS performs the classification automatically, taking
into account the respective leading action or the contained load cases.

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The load duration class is required to determine the modification factor kmod which affects the strength
properties of the material (see [2] Table 3.1). The coefficients kmod can be checked in the National
Annex Settings dialog box and adjusted if necessary (see Figure 2.19 ).

Service Class (SECL)

The classification into service classes makes it possible to assign strength parameters in consideration of
environmental conditions. The service classes are specified in [2] Section 2.3.1.3, for example.

By default, all members are assigned to the same service class. To classify objects into different service
classes, select the Different check box. You can then use the button to open the following dialog
box.

Image 9.21 Assign Members to Corresponding Service Classes dialog box

It allows you to individually classify the members into service classes. The buttons next to the text boxes
facilitate the assignment. They have the following functions:

Button Function

Allows for graphical selection of members in RFEM/RSTAB work window

Assigns all members to this service class

Assigns all members not yet assigned to this service class

Table 9.4 Buttons in the Assign Members to Corresponding Service Classes dialog box

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9.5 Geometry
In Window 1.5 Geometry, you can define the steel plate and fastener parameters.

Image 9.22 Window 1.5 Geometry

This window is divided into two parts: On the left, the input parameters of the connection node are
displayed; on the right, they are illustrated by graphics. The upper graphic shows a system sketch of
the current parameter, the lower graphic shows a 3D visualization of the node.

The graphic buttons are explained in Table 3.1 .

Steel Plates
In this section, you can define the properties of the steel plates. Please note the following.

A maximum Number of five slotted plates is possible.

The Thickness of steel plate must be between 1 mm (for nails) and 40 mm (for SFS: 3 mm).
The Distance from fasteners to plate edge must meet the standard requirements so that the hole
bearing designs can be fulfilled (see [1] Table 3.3 and 3.4).
The Width of slot is usually the same as the plate thickness. If the connection is made with tolerances,
the slot width can be increased by a maximum of 1 mm. When using the SFS intec system, the limit
value of 2 mm must be observed. However, this setting makes no difference for the calculation, as
only geometry constraints are queried here.
The plates can also be designed as Side plates. For this purpose, at least two slotted plates must be
provided.
Modified slotted plate designs are dynamically visualized in the graphic.

If more than one slotted steel sheet is used, there may be a problem in the generation of the
predominant failure modes according to [2] Section 8.2.3, Figure 8.3. The predominant (governing)
failure mode of the fasteners in the corresponding joint must be compatible with every other one. The
combination of failure modes (c), (f), and (j/l) with other failure modes is thus not allowed.

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Image 9.23 Failure modes according to [2] Figure 8.3

RF-/JOINTS always checks the hole bearing in the inner and outer shear of a multishear connection.
For the cuts at the outer edge of the plates, the failure modes (f), (g), and (h) are checked - both for
thick and thin steel plates. The modes according to [2] Equation (8.9) and (8.10) are identical to
them.

In the middle part, the failure cases are analyzed according to [2] Equations (8.12) and (8.13).
Here too, a distinction is made between thick steel plates with the cases (l), (m) and thin steel plates
with the cases (j), (k).

Image 9.24 Failure modes: dashed green (f), (g), and (h); dashed purple (l), (m) or (j), (k)

RF-/JOINTS always determines the governing failure mode in the respective joint. If, for a thin sheet,
the failure mode (j) is governing at the inner (purple) shear planes and the mode (g) in the outer
(green) shear planes, the calculation is not possible. However, if the mode (f) were governing, the
calculation could be performed.

Connection Geometry
This section describes the fastener layout using parameters. The specifications must be made separately
for each member. You can use the list or the buttons to switch between the individual members.
Different diameters and distances are possible for the respective categories (dowels, bolts, nails,
screws).

The Pattern of the fastener group can be defined as a rectangle or a circle.

The Diameter of the fasteners can be selected within the respective allowable limits. For dowels, the
minimum diameter is 6 mm, for screws it is 1.8 mm. If the SFS intec fastening system has been
specified in Window 1.1, 7 mm is set. Combinations with different diameters are also possible.
If you want the length of the dowel to be shorter than the cross-section width (e.g. for fire protection),
you have to enter the Plug length. This automatically reduces the length of the dowel. For nails and
screws, the nail or screw length is shortened on one side.

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Pattern of the connection

The design of dowel, bolt, screw, and nail connections can be circular or rectangular.

In the case of a circular arrangement, the Number of circles is limited by the cross-section height. In the
input lines, you can specify the Number of fasteners in circle.

Image 9.25 Defining the number of dowel circles

For circular arrangements, the condition according to [7] that the radius of the circle must be six
times larger than the fastener diameter also applies. In the program, this criterion is checked using the
height of the fastener that is furthest from the center.

h

sin 60
6
d core max 
1
sin 60
Equation 9.1

Minimum radius of dowel circle

For a rectangular arrangement of the dowels, specify the Number of fasteners in x-direction and in
z-direction.

Image 9.26 Defining the number of dowel columns

It is also possible to arrange Staggered rows in order to improve the crack behavior of the joint.

The Method of placement can aim for the smallest possible distance of the fasteners to each other or
the minimum edge distance. User-defined distances are also possible.

The following options are available for the Orientation of fastener columns and rows:

Basic - orientation on local member coordinate system

Rotated - orientation on global coordinate system
Slanting - orientation on edges with staggered rows
User-defined - free definition of inclination and rotation
If the Dowel group is reinforced by screws to prevent cracking, the effective number of fasteners does
not need to be reduced. The parameters of the reinforcement must then be defined separately (see
Figure 9.30 ).

For the joint type Main member only, you can cut the member at any angle. This allows for the
connection to a reinforced concrete wall, for example.

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Image 9.27 Defining the cutting angle

For the connected web members of a beam, you can define a Member eccentricity that geometrically
determines the outlines of the members. The local member coordinate system is shown in the graphic.

Image 9.28 Defining the member eccentricity

With the Avoid bending of side members option (see Figure 9.28 ), you can prevent additional
bending moments due to eccentric load introduction. For this purpose, the program applies a reduced
tension resistance for the connecting members. You can find more information about connections
subjected to tension in the following article:
https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001299

The general parameters for reducing the tensile strength can be found in the Timber tab of the Details
dialog box (see Figure 9.38 ).

Details

The [Details] button below the section (see image 9.28 ) opens the Details dialog box. In this
window, you can deactivate fasteners and adjust the diameters individually.

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Image 9.29 Details dialog box

In the figure above, the Activity of dowel No. 1 is suspended.

Dowel group reinforced by screws

In order to calculate with nef = n, you can define user-defined reinforcements with screws. The screw
reinforcement is identical for all dowel-type fasteners.

Image 9.30 Dowel group reinforced by screws

When defining Automatically, you have to specify the ultimate tensile strength of the screw.

For the design of the reinforcement, you can arrange the screws between each dowel-type fastener
Equally or only on the edges of the fastener group.

Image 9.31 Screws between each dowel Equally (left) or only for edges (right)

The Number of reinforcing screws per dowel column is defined in pairs by default. This corresponds to
two screws for a steel plate, three screws for two plates, and so on.

The Screw length is specified up to the axis of the fastener that is furthest from the screw-in point. A
Screw extension to the edge of the cross-section with the value lext is also possible. The screw length will

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be calculated automatically.

Image 9.32 Definition of screw length

The Nominal diameter of the screw can be selected from the list or entered directly.

The design of the screws is performed in the direction of the screw axis according to [2] Section
8.7.2.

When automatically defining the screw reinforcement, you have to specify whether the Withdrawal
strength determination is carried out according to [2] Section 8.7.2(4) or 8.7.2(5).

The calculation of the pull-out resistance is thus performed either according to

Equation (8.38)

n ef f axk d
ef k d
F axa Rk 
2 cos2 a
sin2 a
1
Equation 9.2

or Equation (8.40a)

n ef f axk d
ef r


0
8
k
F axa Rk 
2 cos2 a
1
sin2 a r a

Equation 9.3

Since there is no information about the Ultimate strength of fastener in [2] , the value fu,b must be
user-defined. The screw's tensile strength is calculated with the Core diameter of the screw.
2

d core 
f tens
k  f u
k




 2 
Equation 9.4

The screw action is assumed to be acting separately. Therefore, n = nef and thus Ft,Rk = nef ftens,k. This
design of the tensile strength is performed with the number 6201 in the module.

The screw's pull-out resistance from the wood is determined in design 6200 when automatically
defining with Equation (8.38) or (8.40) (see above).

In the manual screw design, you can freely specify the withdrawal capacity and the tensile strength of
the screw.

When determining the screw load, the resulting force Fres in each screw is calculated using the
force Fres in each fastener. The force is displayed in design 6010 (see Figure 9.33 ). The screw
design uses the maximum force in vertical direction Fres,z of the member.

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Image 9.33 Maximum force of each dowel

For a slotted steel plate, the force of each dowel is respectively absorbed by one screw on the left and
right of the plate. The force is therefore divided by two and multiplied by 0.3 according to [8] . This
gives Fres,0.3.

Fres (already divided by two) is again divided by 4 for the force Fnotch (example of a slotted plate with
two screws per dowel), which is why this division only works for the Equally arrangement, as shown
(see Figure 9.31 ).

The force used to design the screws is therefore:

F ksplit F res0
3
F notch

Equation 9.5

When determining the forces in a screw, it should be noted that only resulting forces acting at an angle
of less than 30° are used for the design. If loads that are applied at a steeper angle are to be taken
into account as well, the limit angle in the Timber tab of the Details dialog box can be adjusted (see
Figure 9.38 ).

Image 9.34 Adjusting the limit angle

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9.6 Details
In the Details dialog box, you can give additional specifications for the design. This dialog box is
available in every input window using the [Details] button.

General

Image 9.35 Details dialog box, General tab

Generation to Structural Model

The eccentricities and joints that are available due to the geometry parameters of RF-/JOINTS can also
be used for the modeling. You can use the Generate member eccentricity and Generate connection
model check boxes to export this specific member information to RFEM or RSTAB. However, no
additional structural model is created there. Instead, when you start the RF-/JOINTS calculation, the
eccentricity and connection are transferred to RFEM/RSTAB as a member property and nodal releases
are generated in RFEM. This information can be found in the RSTAB Tables 1.4 Member Hinges and
1.5 Member Eccentricities or the RFEM Tables 1.14 Member Hinges, 1.15 Member Eccentricities,
1.24 Nodal Releases, and 1.30 Joints. The internal forces for the designs are then determined with the
modified model.

There are export options for all members you can define eccentricities and hinges for. If there are
already members with hinges or if there are trusses in the model, the additional connection hinges
would lead to instabilities in the calculation. Therefore, a corresponding message appears before the
dialog box is closed.

Image 9.36 Note for modeling

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The generated eccentricities, for example, can be checked in the Edit Member Eccentricity dialog box
in RFEM/RSTAB. However, it is not possible to change the values.

Image 9.37 Generated member eccentricity in RFEM or RSTAB

Options

The Simplified results option is recommended if you want to analyze a large number of load
combinations. Only a summary of the governing results is then displayed in the result windows. This not
only speeds up the calculation, but also the evaluation of the results.

Timber

Image 9.38 Details dialog box, Timber tab

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Design Value Setting

If the design value is generated by editing the characteristic load-carrying capacity Fv,Rk, the
load-bearing capacity is adjusted to the semi-probabilistic safety concept with the factors kmod and γM.

The design value of the load-bearing capacity for each dowel and slotted plate is then:

F v
Rk
F v
Rd k mod 
g M

Equation 9.6

Alternatively, the design value can be formed by editing the characteristic embedment strength fh,k and
fastener yield moment My,Rk. In this case, the hole bearing strength and the yield moment are adjusted
with the corresponding partial safety factors.

Hole bearing strength of timber:

f ha

k
F ha k mod 


d g M

Equation 9.7

Yield moment of the dowel:

M y
Rk
M y
Rd 
g M0

Equation 9.8

In the third option, the design value is determined using the load carrying capacity of single dowel,
taking into account the minimum timber thickness. This method is only specified in the German Annex to
[2] . The minimum timber thickness is checked according to equation (NA.116) and then the ultimate
limit state design is performed according to equation (NA.115). This procedure corresponds to a
rather simplified design. If the failure criteria according to Johansen [9] are checked, the design is
not necessary.

Reduction of Timber Tensile Strength

If the Reduction of timber tensile strength to percentage of basic value option is activated, the tensile
strength of the timber is reduced in the design for bending and compression according to [2] Section
6.2.3. This reduction can be omitted if the warping of the connection is prevented by a guide pin, for
example.

According to the German Annex to [2] mentioned below, separate reductions are required for nails
and screws. The coefficients can be defined separately here.

For each connected member, you can separately specify whether the reduction should be taken into
account (see Figure 9.28 ).

Options

The Reduce slip modulus option reduces the stiffness of the connection determined by the modulus by
the material's partial safety factor.

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With the According to 3.2(3) for solid timber, According to 3.3(3) for glulam, and According to
5.1.3(1) for glulam check boxes, you can increase the bending and tensile strengths for the designs.
The conditions and factors kh are given in the corresponding sections of the standard [2] .

The Limit angle text box controls which force is assigned to an optional screw reinforcement (see
Equation 9.5 ). With the default setting, only forces acting at a flatter angle than 30° in the
respective fastener are considered.

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10 Timber - Timber to Timber

This chapter describes the windows that are especially relevant for the RF-/JOINTS Timber -
Timber to Timber module. The general input parameters are described in Chapter 2 .

The input windows of the add-on module are accessible once you select the material Timber and the
joint group Timber to timber connection.

Image 10.1 RF-/JOINTS Timber - Timber to Timber add-on module

The module generally requires the connected members to have a pinned joint.

The input always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

If the entries Load Duration and Service Class and Geometry are missing in the navigator, go to
Window 1.2 Nodes and Members and check if the boundary conditions of the node are correct and if
load cases are available for the design. For example, it might be necessary to adjust the status of the
connected members (see Figure 10.8 ).

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10.1 General Data

Image 10.2 Window 1.1 General Data

Joint Category

Image 10.3 Joint category

The Slant screws fastener is currently the only available timber-to-timber joint category.

Joint Type

Image 10.4 Joint type

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The following joint types are available:

Main member Fastening of a member to an existing component (or any

only number of members) at any angle

Front to side Connection of a diagonal member to a continuous beam

(Main member and Continuous member)

Front to front Free definition of a node with a connected member

Table 10.1 Joint types

Cutting - Main Member

Image 10.5 Cutting - Main Member

This section is only accessible for the Front to front joint type. With an inclined secondary member, the
connection can be symmetrical or asymmetrical (cf. Figure 9.6 ).

Symmetrical connection at an angle of 45°

Main member cut perpendicularly to member axis

Secondary member cut perpendicularly to member axis

Table 10.2 Connection options for main member

According to Standard / National Annex

Image 10.6 According to Standard / National Annex section

The design-relevant coefficients are specified according to the standard and the National Annex (see
Figure 2.19 ).

If you want to apply user-defined factors for the designs, you have to create a new National Annex
first by clicking the button. Afterwards, the coefficients can be customized in the National Annex
Settings dialog box (cf. Figure 9.10 ).

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Additional Settings

Image 10.7 Additional Settings section

According to [2] 8.7.2(3), the minimum embedment depth of the threaded part on the side of the
screw head should be six times the screw diameter d. If necessary, the factor for determining the
minimum penetration tpen,min can be adjusted in this section.

10.2 Nodes and Members

The selection of nodes and members is described in Chapter 2.2 and Chapter 9.2 .

Image 10.8 Window 1.2 Nodes and Members - adjusting construction status of members

In the Parameters section, you can check the boundary conditions of the connected structural
components. If necessary, you can adjust the Construction Status in this section. The current member is
highlighted in color in the graphic window.

The Angles of the members are based on the geometric conditions of the model defined in RFEM or
RSTAB.

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If more than two members are connected to a node, the following definition options are available for
the Construction Status of the members:

Main member - controls all other members as well as the cutting and its priority
Continuous member - only available for the With continuous member joint type
Connected member
Inactive - excludes the member from the design
When defining main and connecting members, it is necessary to observe certain geometric conditions:

A maximum of one member can be connected.

For the minimum length of the connected member, the condition applies that the screwed-in screw
must not protrude from the member.
There must be a minimum angle of 30° between the members in the xy plane. In the xz plane, any
angle is possible. So-called jack rafter cuts between members are therefore possible as well (see
Figure 10.9 ).

Image 10.9 Jack rafter joint

For the Main member joint type, the cuts are limited to angles between 75° and 105°.
For the Front to front joint type, the angle of the connected member must not exceed 60°.
With the status Main member for all members, you can connect more than one member to the node,
like in the Timber - Steel to Timber module (see Figure 9.19 ). This is advantageous if you only want
to design the connection in a complex joint geometry.

For the joint type Main member, you can freely select the inclination, cutting, and eccentricity within the
described limits.

10.3 Loads
Entering loads and internal forces is described in Chapter 2.3 .

10.4 Load Duration and Service Class

Window 1.4 Load Duration and Service Class is described in Chapter 9.4 .

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10.5 Geometry
In Window 1.5 Geometry, you can specify the details for the connection of the selected members.

Image 10.10 Window 1.5 Geometry

This window is divided into two parts: On the left, the input parameters of the connection node are
displayed; on the right, they are illustrated by graphics. The upper graphic shows a system sketch of
the current parameter, the lower graphic shows a 3D visualization of the node.

The graphic buttons are explained in Table 3.1 .

The window is adapted to the joint type. In the following, the entries for the Front to side type are
presented. This connection is the most common type of design for slant screws.

If there is an eccentricity for the Member alignment in the model, it can be imported from RFEM or
RSTAB. You can use the Edge options to specify a user-defined eccentricity. However, this eccentricity
is not transferred to the main program. Thus, the eccentricity does not influence the internal forces, just
the geometric boundary conditions of the connection.

For the connected member, the plane x-y or x-z can be selected as the Joint plane. Depending on the
specification, the pair of screws is rotated accordingly. The graphic window shows the arrangement of
the screws dynamically.

The Define parameters of screws option allows you to define the screws automatically, manually, or in
a library. The library of fasteners (see Figure 10.11 ) can be opened in the text box below by using
the button.

The Thread type can be selected from the list.

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Image 10.11 Fastener library

When you define the screws manually, note the following:

The Diameter dst of the screw must have at least 6 mm and a maximum of 12 mm.
The Screw length lst is freely definable. However, the screw must not protrude from the wood.
The Head length lh is limited to a maximum of 50 mm.
The Minimal angle between the screw and grain αlim must be between 0° and 90°. According to
[2] 8.7.2, this angle may not be smaller than 30° (default setting). However, some manufacturers
also offer the option to apply flatter angles according to the technical approval.
The Characteristic withdrawal capacity Fax,Rk can be calculated according to [2] Equations (8.38),
(8.40a), or (8.40b). Alternatively, this value can be taken from the technical approval of a screw
manufacturer.
The Characteristic compressive resistance capacity fc,k in the buckling design of the bolt is assumed to
be 50 kN.
According to the technical approval, the Characteristic tensile strength of the screw ftens,k is assumed
to be 20 kN.
The Screws configuration can be selected from the list.
With the Both screws from connected member side option, you can control the screw-in direction of
the screws (see Figure 10.12 ).
The Screws centered on shear plane option allows you to create an offset of height from the
connected member to the main beam.

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Image 10.12 Screw-in direction: Both screws from connected member side (left)

Defining drill point determines whether the screw is connected from the bottom or top edge.
If the screw is not placed in the center of the shear plane, you can enter the Drill point distance, the
distance from the head of defining screw to the shear plane, and the distance from head of following
screw to the shear plane in the text boxes.
After that, define the Number of screws. There can be at most 20 pairs of screws if the alignment is
crosswise or 20 screws if the alignment is parallel.
If more than one screw pair or, in case of a parallel alignment, more than one screw is defined,
information about the screw spacings is required. The Method of screws placement can take the
minimum or maximum edge distances or user-defined specifications into account.
On our website, you can find a technical article that explains how to determine the screw forces for a
secondary beam connected to a torsionally rigid main beam:
https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001502

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11 Calculation RF-/JOINTS - Manual

11 Calculation

You can start the [Calculation] in every RF-/JOINTS window by using the corresponding button.

RF-/JOINTS searches for the results of the load cases, load combinations, and result combinations to
be designed. If they cannot be found, the RFEM or RSTAB calculation for determining the
design-relevant internal forces starts first. If you have selected direct input of internal forces (see
Chapter 2.3.2 ), the RFEM/RSTAB results are not relevant for the design.

You can also start the calculation in the RFEM/RSTAB user interface: The design cases of the add-on
modules such as load cases or load combinations are listed in the To Calculate dialog box (menu
Calculate To Calculate).

Image 11.1 To Calculate dialog box

If the RF-/JOINTS cases are missing in the Not Calculated section, select All or Add-on Modules in the
drop-down list below the section.

You can use the button to transfer the selected RF/-JOINTS cases to the list on the right. Click [OK]
to start the calculation.

To calculate a design case directly, use the list in the toolbar: Select the RF-/JOINTS design case and
click [Show Results].

Image 11.2 Direct calculation of an RF-JOINTS case in RFEM

You can subsequently observe the calculation process in a dialog box.

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Image 11.3 FE-Calculation dialog box

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12 Results

Window 3.1 Design - Summary appears immediately after the calculation.

Image 12.1 Result window with designs, design ratios, and design details

The output always refers to the design case selected in the upper part of the navigator. To change the
design case, simply click the relevant entry in the list.

The content of the result windows is adapted to the results of the different RF-/JOINTS modules. The
sequence and the concept of the windows are the same.

Window 2.1 shows an overview graphic including the geometric parameters of the connection
components.

Result windows 3.1 to 3.3 show the designs, sorted by different criteria. Window 3.4 lists the
intermediate values of the individual designs.

Window 4.1 shows a graphic of the joint with all geometric details, which can also be printed.

Window 5.1 lists notes that are relevant for the design.

You can directly select a window by clicking its entry in the navigator. Use the buttons shown on the
left to set the previous or next window. You can also use the function keys [F2] and [F3] to go through
the windows.

Click [OK] to save the results. The RF-/JOINTS module closes and you return to the main program.

Chapter 12 presents the result windows one by one. Evaluating and checking the results is described in
Chapter 13 .

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12.1 Geometry
This window lists all the geometric parameters of the connection.

Image 12.2 Window 2.1 Geometry

As is usual in Windows applications, the list entries can be expanded with and reduced with .

The graphic shows the component selected in the list including the parameters.

The buttons are described in Table 13.1 .

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12.2 Design - Summary

This window lists the maximum design ratios of all designed nodes. The design ratios for the internal
forces of the governing load cases and combinations are sorted by design type.

Image 12.3 Window 3.1 Design - Summary

Governing Node
This column displays the number of the node with the highest design ratio for the design type indicated
in column E.

Governing Load
In this column, you can find the numbers of the load cases or load combinations whose internal forces
result in the maximum design ratios.

Design Ratio
Columns C and D show the design conditions according to EN 1993-1-8 [1] , EN 1995-1-1 [2] ,
or ANSI/AWC NDS 2018 [5] .

The length of the colored bars represents the respective design ratio graphically.

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Design According to Formula

This column names the individual designs according to [1] , [2] , or [5] . The design numbers
according to the Eurocode are explained in Table 12.1 for the RF-/JOINTS Timber - Steel to Timber
module.

Number Design Section in standard

5005 Steel plate for bending, shear and axial force [14] 6.2.10

5009 Hole bearing [1] Table 3.4

5010 Steel plate for bending and shear without axial force [14] 6.2.8

6010 Load-carrying capacity per dowel [2] 8.2.3 and 8.6

6030 Block shear failure [2] Annex A

6031 Effective number of fasteners (nef) [2] 8.1.2; 8.5.1.1(4)

6032 Dowel group [2] 8.1.4

6033 Dowel group due to moment [2] 8.1.4

6140 Tensile stress [2] 6.1.2

6142 Shear stress [2] 6.1.7

6143 Bending stress [2] 6.1.6

6144 Tensile and bending stress [2] 6.2.3

6146 Shear stress due to eccentricity (see figure on the left) [2] 6.1.7

6200 Reinforcement with screws [2] 8.7.2(4/5)

6201 Reinforcement with screws [2] 8.7.2(7)

Eccentricity of shear force to center of dowel

6500 Minimum spacings [2] 8.6, Table 8.5

6530 Check of contact

Table 12.1 Design numbers and designs

Design Details
In this window section, you can find detailed information about the design parameters of the entry
selected above.

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12.3 Design by Load Case

The upper part of the window lists the governing designs sorted by load cases and load combinations.
The lower part includes detailed information on the internal forces and design parameters of the load
case selected above.

Image 12.4 Window 3.2 Design by Load Case

Description
This column provides the descriptions of the load cases and load combinations for which the designs
were performed.

Nodes No.
This column displays the number of the node with the maximum design ratio for the designed action.

Design Ratio
Columns C and D show the design conditions according to [1] , [2] , or [5] . The length of the
colored bar represents the respective design ratio graphically.

Design According to Formula

This column lists the equations of the standard that were used for the designs.

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12.4 Design by Nodes

Image 12.5 Window 3.3 Design by Nodes

This window lists the maximum design ratios of the designed nodes.

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12.5 Design - Details

Image 12.6 Window 3.4 Design - Details

This result window lists all individual designs that were carried out for the connection, including design
ratios.

The lower section of the window provides detailed information about the parameters of the design
selected above.

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12.6 Graphic
This window shows a graphic of the connection including all of the components.

Image 12.7 Window 4.1 Graphic

The Components to Display section lists the structural components of the connection. You can display
or hide individual components in the graphic using the corresponding check boxes.

Use the button to access additional subentries. This allows you to display the Dimensions and
Outlines of certain components.

The graphical display is dynamic. You can use the mouse functions known from RFEM or RSTAB to
zoom, move, or rotate the view.

The buttons are described in Table 13.1 .

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12.7 Notes

Image 12.8 Window 5.1 Notes

The last result window contains numbered notes with explanations that are relevant for the design of
the connection.

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13 Result Evaluation

Windows 3.1 to 3.4 display the results sorted by various criteria. The buttons below the tables facilitate
the evaluation.

Image 13.1 Buttons for result evaluation in the tables

The buttons have the following functions:

Button Description Function

View mode Jumps to the RFEM or RSTAB work window to change the
view

Exceeding Only displays rows with a ratio greater than 1 (design not
fulfilled)

Relation scales Displays or hides the colored relation scales in the result
windows

Export to Excel Exports the table to MS Excel or as a CSV file

Chapter 15.3

Table 13.1 Buttons in result windows 3.1 to 3.4

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13.1 Graphic of Connection in RF-/JOINTS

Each result window shows a dynamic graphic of the joint. It provides an overview and illustrates the
parameters.

Image 13.2 Graphic of connection

The buttons below the graphic have the following functions:

Button Function

Shows or hides the dimensioning

Displays the values or symbols of the dimensioning

Shows the view in the direction of the X-axis

Shows the view in the opposite direction of the X-axis

Shows the view in the direction of the Y-axis

Shows the view in the direction of the Z-axis

Displays the isometric view

Resets the full view of the graphic

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Shows or hides irrelevant components

Prints the current 3D graphic

Table 13.2 Graphic buttons in result windows

You can use the mouse to zoom, move, or rotate the view. These functions are described in Chapter
3.4.9 of the RFEM or RSTAB manual.

You can use the [Show Unselected Parts Transparently] button to display only selected components
such as anchors with dimensions, for example.

Image 13.3 Show Unselected Parts Transparently button

Click to print the graphic. This option is described in Chapter 14.2.1 .

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13.2 Graphic of Connection in RFEM/RSTAB

Model
The graphic of the connection can also be displayed graphically on the RFEM or RSTAB model: Click
[OK] to close the RF-/JOINTS module. Then, select the RF-/JOINTS design case in the RFEM/RSTAB
menu bar.

The connections are now visualized in 3D rendering in the work window of RFEM or RSTAB.

Image 13.4 Display of connections in RFEM work window

Similar to the display of internal forces, the [Show Results] button displays or hides the module results.

RFEM/RSTAB do not provide a separate Results navigator for the design cases of RF-/JOINTS. The
RFEM/RSTAB tables are not relevant for RF-/JOINTS as well.

You can also use the Visibility options for the display in RFEM or RSTAB (see Chapter 9.9.1.2 of the
RFEM manual or Chapter 9.7.1.2 of the RSTAB manual) in order to filter the nodes of the
connections.

The graphic of the connection can be printed directly or transferred to the printout report (see Chapter
14.2.2 ).

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14 Printout

14.1 Printout Report

Like in RFEM or RSTAB, you can generate a printout report for the data of the RF-/JOINTS module
where you can add graphics and descriptions. The selection in the printout report determines which
data from the connection module is eventually included in the printout.

The printout report is described in the RFEM and RSTAB manuals. Chapter 10.1.3.5 'Selecting data of
add-on modules' explains how the input and output data of add-on modules can be prepared for
the printout.

For complex structural systems with design cases from different connection modules, dividing the data
up into several printout reports enhances the clarity of the printout.

The parameters of input windows 1.4 to 1.8. are summarized in Table 1.4 Geometry Details of the
printout report.

Image 14.1 Printout report table 1.4 Geometry Details

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14.2 Graphic Printout

You can print graphics of the RF-/JOINTS module as well as of the RFEM work window.

14.2.1 RF-/JOINTS Graphic

The print function can be accessed by using the [Print] button that is available in Window 2.1
Geometry and 4.1 Graphic below the graphic (see Figure 13.2 ).

Clicking this button opens the print dialog box shown in Figure 14.2 .

Image 14.2 Graphic Printout dialog box, General tab

The Graphic Printout dialog box is described in Chapter 10.2 of the RFEM or RSTAB manual. The
Options tab is described in that chapter as well.

If several printout reports are available, you can select the number of the target report in the list.

In order to add several graphics to the printout report in succession, deselect the Show printout report
on [OK] check box.

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Image 14.3 Connection in printout report

14.2.2 RFEM/RSTAB Graphic

In RFEM or RSTAB, you can transfer every image displayed in the work window to the printout report
or send it directly to a printer. In this way, you can prepare the connections displayed on the RFEM or
RSTAB model for the printout.

To print the currently displayed graphic of the connection, select

File Print Graphic

in the menu or use the corresponding toolbar button.

Image 14.4 [Print Graphic] button in RFEM toolbar

The Graphic Printout dialog box shown in Figure 14.2 appears.

You can move a graphic to another position in the printout report as usual by using drag-and-drop.

To retroactively adjust a graphic in the printout report, right-click the corresponding entry in the report
navigator. The Properties option in the shortcut menu opens the Graphic Printout dialog box where you
can make various adjustments.

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Image 14.5 Graphic Printout dialog box, Options tab

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15 General Functions

This chapter describes useful menu functions as well as export options for the designs.

15.1 Design Cases

Design cases allow you to group nodes or members for the designs. In this way, you can group
connection nodes with the same parameters or analyze members with certain design specifications
(e.g. materials, internal forces).

If the conditions of designed nodes are different in terms of the cross-sections, dimensions, number of
bolts, etc., you have to create a new design case. You cannot manage the design specifications in a
single case.

In Window 1.2 Nodes and Members, you can quickly create new design cases by using the [Transfer
the Node to a New Case] or [Transfer Unsuitable Nodes to New Case] button (see Figure 2.10 ).
Then you can define the node-specific parameters.

The design cases are displayed in the navigator on the top left. To change the design case, click the
relevant entry in the list. You can also access the RF-/JOINTS design cases in RFEM or RSTAB by using
the load case list in the toolbar.

Creating a new design case

To create a new design case, go to the RF-/JOINTS menu and select

File New Case.

The following dialog box appears.

Image 15.1 New RF-JOINTS Case dialog box

Enter a Number (that is still available) for the new design case in this dialog box. The description
facilitates the selection from the load case list.

Click [OK] to open Window 1.1 General Data in RF-/JOINTS where you can enter the design data.

Renaming a design case

To change the description of a design case, go to the RF-/JOINTS menu and select

File Rename Case.

The following dialog box appears.

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Image 15.2 Rename RF-JOINTS Case dialog box

In this dialog box, you can specify a different Description as well as a different Number of the design
case.

Copying a design case

To copy the input data of the current design case, go to the RF-JOINTS menu and select

File Copy Case.

The following dialog box appears.

Image 15.3 Copy RF-JOINTS Case dialog box

Define the Number and, if necessary, a Description of the new case.

Deleting a design case

To delete a design case, go to the RF-JOINTS menu and select

File Delete Case.

The following dialog box appears.

Image 15.4 Delete Cases dialog box

You can select a design case in the list of Available Cases. To delete the selected case, click [OK].

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15.2 Units and Decimal Places

The units and decimal places of RFEM/RSTAB and their add-on modules are managed in one dialog
box. To open it, go to the RF-JOINTS menu and select

Settings Units and Decimal Places.

The dialog box familiar from RFEM or RSTAB appears. The RF-/JOINTS module is preset in the
Program / Module list.

Image 15.5 Units and Decimal Places dialog box

You can save the settings as a user profile and reuse them in other models. These functions are
described in Chapter 11.1.3 of the RFEM and RSTAB manual.

15.3 Data Export

You can use the input and output data of RF-/JOINTS in other programs as well.

Clipboard
You can copy selected cells in the result windows to the clipboard with [Ctrl]+[C] and paste them, for
example, in a word processing program using [Ctrl]+[V]. The headers of the table columns are not
transferred.

Printout report
You can print the RF-/JOINTS data into the printout report (see Chapter 14.1 ) where you can
export them using

File Export to RTF.

This function is described in Chapter 10.1.11 of the RFEM and RSTAB manual.

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Excel
RF-/JOINTS allows you to directly export data to MS Excel or into the CSV format. To access this
function, go to the menu and select

File Export Tables.

The following export dialog box appears.

Image 15.6 Export of Tables dialog box

When you have selected the relevant options, you can start the export by clicking [OK]. Excel is
started automatically, that is, you do not need to open the program beforehand.

Image 15.7 Results in Excel

DXF export
The graphic of the steel or timber connection can be exported as a DXF file. This function is available in
Window 4.1 Graphic by using the [DXF] button.

For the export, the display as a Wireframe Model is recommended. Make sure that the relevant

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components are displayed in the graphic window.

Image 15.8 [Export DXF] button in Window 4.1 Graphic

After you click the button, the Windows dialog box "Save as" appears where you enter the name and
the file path of the DXF file.

Image 15.9 Result in AutoCAD

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16 Literature

[1] Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures - Part 1-8: Design of joints;

EN 1993‑1‑8:2005 + AC:2009

[2] Eurocode 5: Design of timber structures - Part 1-1: General - Common rules and rules for
buildings; EN 1995-1-1:2010-12

[3] Weynand, K.; Oerder, R.: Typisierte Anschlüsse im Stahlhochbau nach DIN EN 1993-1-8.
Düsseldorf: Stahlbau, 2013

[4] Weynand, K.; Oerder, R.: Typisierte Anschlüsse im Stahlhochbau nach DIN EN 1993-1-8 –
Ergänzungsband 2018. Düsseldorf: Stahlbau, 2018

[5] National Design Specification (NDS) for Wood Construction 2018 Edition

[6] European Recommendations for the Design of Simple Joints in Steel Structures. ECCS -
European Convention for Constructional Steelwork, Mem Martins, edition = 1. 2009.

[7] Informationsdienst Holz Bemessung und Baustoffe STEP1. Informationsdienst Holz, edition = 9.

[8] Blass, H., Ehlbeck, J., Kreuzinger, H., & Steck, G. (2005). Erläuterungen zu DIN 1052:
Entwurf, Berechnung und Bemessung von Holzbauwerken (2nd ed.). Karlsruhe: Bruderverlag.

[9] K. W. Johansen. Theory of timber connections. Bern, edition = 9, 1949.

[10] Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures - Part 1-1: General rules and rules for buildings; EN
1992-1-1:2011-01

[11] Eduard Kahlmeyer and Karin Hebestreit and Werner Vogt. Stahlbau nach EC 3. Werner
Verlag, Köln, edition = 6. 2012.

[12] Eurocode 3: Bemessung und Konstruktion von Stahlbauten, Band 2: Anschlüsse, DIN EN
19931-1-8 mit Nationalem Anhang, Kommentar und Beispiele. Beuth Verlag GmbH, Berlin,
2015.

[13] Rolf Kindmann and Michael Stracke. Verbindungen im Stahl- und Verbundbau. Ernst & Sohn,
Berlin, edition = 3. 2012.

[14] Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures - Part 1‑1: General rules and rules for buildings;
EN 1993‑1‑1:2010‑12

[15] Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures - Part 1-5: General rules - Plated structural elements; EN
1993-1-5:2006 + AC:2009

[16] Albert, A. (2018). Schneider - Bautabellen für Ingenieure mit Berechnungshinweisen und
Beispielen (23rd ed.). Cologne: Bundesanzeiger.

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