Perform simple structural calculations

Universal construction calculation program PC-Frame is still unprecedentedly popular, according to Patty Schutte of Mile17. The software program is being used in more and more industries. According to Schutte, this is due to the simplicity of the program that performs structural calculations in the flat 2D plane. A conversation about the latest developments and updates.

Eighty percent of structural calculations are performed in the flat 2D plane, begins Patty Schutte. "Quite striking actually that software for structural engineers is becoming increasingly extensive and bulky. We deliberately keep PC-Frame simple and low-threshold." PC-Frame calculates bearing reactions, deflections, moments, shear forces and normal forces of flat, two-dimensional frameworks. Structures such as trusses, continuous beams, portals and arches can also be calculated with the program. "Partly because of its simplicity, our program is also enjoying increasing popularity in sectors other than construction," says Schutte. "For example, PC-Frame is widely used for structural calculations in earthworks, civil engineering, maritime and mechanical engineering. PC-Frame is also well known in education, where students use it for creating assignments. The educational version was developed especially for this purpose. This version contains all the functions, but provides the calculations with a watermark."

Version 6
The method for calculating the structure in PC-Frame is linear-elastic. "In a simple way, the structure is drawn on the screen," Schutte explains. "Then the bearings are designated and the loads are placed. We recently put version 6 live, a version that was extensively tested under Windows 10 and found to be good. Customers can download this version from our website. In this latest version we pay even more attention to entering loads, an important aspect for the structural engineer. PC-Frame already had the ability to convert an evenly distributed load on a surface to a bar, by entering and saving the field height. In the latest version, the bar's own weight can also be entered as a load. Based on the specific gravity and cross section, the weight per linear meter is automatically determined."

New functionalities mobile application
Mile17 also has a mobile application live to make simple construction calculations on site via smartphone or tablet. "This online calculation tool is completely free. Via the website, one can very easily have a structural calculation made of a beam on two supports. Here one can also directly select a Euronorm steel section and the load can be determined using Eurocode 1. Soon we will expand the web application with the possibility to perform an articulation calculation."

An integration of PC-Frame with the online tool will be realized in the near future, Patty Schutte hints. "We want to realize a far-reaching link, where one can take outcomes from PC-Frame into the online calculation tool."

Text: Roel van Gils | Image: Mile17