05 July 2010
CONCEPT CONCRETE FRAME DESIGN TOOL UPDATED TO EUROCODE 2
The latest version of Concept, a conceptual design tool for reinforced concrete frames, has been launched by The Concrete Centre. The new version is based on Eurocode 2 and allows fast comparison of different multi-storey concrete frame options at concept/scheme design stages. The new version is available free of charge.
Concept V3 is an ExcelTM spreadsheet that provides initial member sizing, concrete quantities, formwork and reinforcement plus outline cost – all critical information when determining the choice of structural frame. Spans of up to 13m (16m for wide beams) are catered for. A cost optimisation based upon number of stories, bays, spans and loads for an idealised rectilinear structure is quickly delivered. Within 5 minutes 13 scheme options can be considered based on cost, time or particular user requirements. These options are then ranked in order of cost.
To ensure scheme design flexibility, the user may use default rates for concrete, formwork and reinforcement or use their own. Similarly, the user may apply their own default cycle times and design preferences. Sizing and reinforcement quantities are based on The Concrete Centre’s ‘Economic Concrete Elements to Eurocode 2’.
“Previous issues of Concept have proved to be an extremely useful tool saving both the time and cost taken to compare a wide range of structural options. This Eurocode 2 updated version will be welcomed by the designer and engineer as it will help with the transition from British Standards to Eurocodes”, said Charles Goodchild, Principal Structural Engineer with The Concrete Centre.
Concept V3 is for UK use only. For free registration and user licence visit: www.concretecentre.com/concept.
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