FEM interface
To model NPS® beams and columns in FEM software, you can follow the Eurocode guidelines.
Our technical staff is available to assist you with the modeling and provide all the necessary support.
The Eurocodes allow modeling beams and columns using the concrete geometry of the composite section, but with the real stiffness properties of the steel–concrete composite section (such as the elastic modulus and moment of inertia).
This method correctly represents both the weight of the composite element and its structural behavior within the overall structure.
For beams, it is important to distinguish between simply supported (isostatic) beams and continuous beams.
If the beam is simply supported (isostatic), the calculation is straightforward and similar to a normal beam.
If the beam is part of a continuous span, the FEM model must consider the construction phases typical of composite structures:
- Construction phase (steel only)
- End phase (steel-concrete composite structure).
Our technical staff is available to assist you with the modeling and provide all the necessary support.