Basics of Detailing Reinforced Concrete in Prokon PADDS
Introduction Prokon Padds is a specialist detailing tool designed for producing reinforced concrete drawings and bending schedules that are accurate, clear, and compliant with International and South African detailing standards. The software bridges the gap between structural analysis and detailed reinforcement documentation, enabling designers to efficiently convert calculated reinforcement into fully coordinated drawings. This chapter […]
Introduction to the Masonry Wall Design Module
The Masonry Wall Design module in PROKON provides engineers with a powerful tool for verifying the structural resistance of unreinforced masonry walls under different loading conditions. The module is designed to simplify compliance with major masonry design codes while offering flexibility in modelling various wall configurations and support conditions. Code of practice support is currently […]
Class 4 Members in Compression — Explained
Introduction When designing steel members in compression, engineers must consider both the global behaviour of the member (e.g., column buckling) and the local behaviour of individual plate elements (e.g., flange or web buckling). Many standard hot-rolled or built-up sections contain slender elements that may buckle locally before the steel reaches its yield stress. When this […]
Shear Calculation: Required vs Entered Reinforcement in Prokon Pad Footing Design (Base Module)
In the design of concrete pad footings, Prokon’s Base module uses two different reinforcement sets during analysis. Understanding the difference between them is essential for achieving accurate and constructible designs. Required (Theoretical) Reinforcement This is the reinforcement calculated automatically by the program based on: Entered (Provided) Reinforcement This is the reinforcement manually entered by engineer […]
Modelling a Power Transmission Pylon in Prokon SUMO
Power transmission pylons are critical structures in the energy sector, supporting overhead power lines and ensuring safe and efficient electricity transmission over long distances.Designing and analysing these tall, slender steel frameworks requires both accuracy and flexibility — this is where Prokon SUMO becomes a powerful tool. SUMO provides a 3D finite element modelling environment where […]
Bending Schedules in Prokon PADDS
Bending Schedule Definition in PADDS A bending schedule includes: Each schedule is embedded in its parent drawing and saved automatically with it. Field Designations Field Description Member Optional description of the member being detailed. Type any description, using as many lines as needed. Nmem Number of members; This value is multiplied with the number of […]
Modelling Shear Wall & Braces in Prokon SUMO
Shear walls in Prokon SUMO are best modelled using Wall Tool, which applies shell elements for accurate stiffness representation. Why Lateral Stability Matters: Stability Systems: Benefits of Shear Walls & Bracing: Applications: This is a guide on how to model a concrete frame with shear walls and a steel frame with bracing in Prokon SUMO. […]
How to Create Customize Title Block in Prokon PADDS
To create a customised Title Block in Prokon PADDS (especially for use in bending schedules), including your company logo and custom text, follow these clear steps: Was this helpful? Submit Cancel Thanks for your feedback!
Overview of Prokon PADDS (Parametric Drawing and Detailing System)
Prokon PADDS is a 2D windowed CAD environment providing tools for rapid drawing and detailing reinforced concrete with a minimum of effort. It is specifically tailored for structural engineers and detailers working with reinforced concrete structures, enabling efficient creation of drawings and bending schedules that comply with local and international standards. What Does PADDS Do? […]
Continuous Beam Design Output Using the Calcsheet
The Calcsheet in the Continuous Beam Design module allows you to compile input data, analysis results, and reinforcement design outputs into a clear and printable format. This Calcsheet can be printed directly or exported to Prokon CalcPad for further integration into project reports. How to Collect Information in the Calcsheet There are two primary methods […]
Wind Loading Analysis on Walls – Prokon Module
The Wind Loading Module in Prokon helps calculate wind pressure distribution on structural surfaces such as walls, roofs, and cladding elements, in accordance with South African wind code. Applicable Codes of Practise for Wind loading analysis on walls: Define Wall Geometry and Site Exposure Once input is complete, the software calculates: Was this helpful? Submit […]
Temperature Loads in Prokon SUMO
Temperature loads in Prokon SUMO simulate thermal expansion or contraction in structural elements due to environmental temperature changes such as summer heat or winter cold. These effects are particularly significant in long-span structures like bridges, industrial halls, and precast systems. Application on Concrete Slabs Application on Steel Structures Key Notes: Temperature loads in SUMO are […]