In Part 01, we ran through the process of modeling a simply supported concrete beam in Prokon’s SUMO module. Along with this, we manually calculated the relevant maximum sagging moment and the required area of steel. We compared the results and found that they were delightfully comparable. In Part 02, we have followed the same approach but adjusted the length of the beam, its cross-section, mesh size, and load magnitudes, as well as using line supports instead of point supports.
The current model is 10m long, 300mm wide, and 750mm deep. The mesh size is set to 0.05m, and the load magnitudes are as follows:
- DL = 8kN/m²
- LL = 2,5kN/m²
Running the analysis in SUMO, we get the following results:
- Design Moment for C1 = 51kNm
- Design Reinforcement for C1 = 195,99mm²
Comparing this to our hand calculations, we find, once again, that the results are highly comparable. The maximum bending moments are identical. Now, for the area of steel: again, the results are highly comparable, although not identical.
Changing the scenario by setting the line supports as fully fixed, we now expect to see a reduced sagging moment and a hogging moment at either end of the beam.
This time, we need to distinguish between the two types of moments that can be read from the output of an Integration Strip: Plate Moment refers to the standard bending moment, while Wood & Armer Moment (Design Moment) represents the standard bending moment including twisting moments.
Comparing these with hand-calculated values, we find that the hand-calculated values are more comparable to Plate Moments than Wood & Armer values.
The reinforcement for the hogging moments poses a different
