Superstress User Manual: Issue 6.5C September 2006

SuperSTRESS
USER MANUAL
Version 6.5
Issue 6.5C
September 2006
Copyright Integer 2006
Integer and the Integer logo are registered trademarks.

Integer acknowledges all other product names as trademarks of their respective companies.
SuperSTRESS
1.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SUPERSTRESS OVERVIEW...................................................1
1.1
Overview ...................................................................................................... 1
1.1.1
About SuperSTRESS............................................................................ 1
1.1.2
Assumptions ......................................................................................... 1
1.1.3
Running SuperSTRESS ........................................................................ 2
1.2
Structure types .............................................................................................. 2
1.2.1
Plane truss............................................................................................. 2
1.2.2
Plane frame ........................................................................................... 3
1.2.3
Grillage ................................................................................................. 4
1.2.4
Space truss ............................................................................................ 5
1.2.5
Space frame .......................................................................................... 6
1.2.6
Sub frame.............................................................................................. 7
1.3
Sign conventions........................................................................................... 9
1.3.1
Sign conventions overview................................................................... 9
1.3.2
Global axes ........................................................................................... 9
1.3.3
Local axes ........................................................................................... 10
1.3.4
Member axes....................................................................................... 10
1.3.5
Steel section axes ................................................................................ 13
1.3.6
Loading convention ............................................................................ 14
1.3.7
Tabulated output convention .............................................................. 14
1.3.8
Graphical output convention............................................................... 14
1.4
Numerical display....................................................................................... 15
1.4.1
Numerical display ............................................................................... 15
1.4.2
Units ................................................................................................... 16
1.4.3
Number formats .................................................................................. 16
1.5
File management......................................................................................... 17
1.5.1
File management................................................................................. 17
1.5.2
Import CAD ........................................................................................ 17
1.5.3
Export CAD ........................................................................................ 20
1.6
Getting started............................................................................................. 22
1.6.1
Wizards ............................................................................................... 22
1.6.2
New job wizard................................................................................... 22
1.6.3
Structure wizard.................................................................................. 23
1.6.4
Meshes ................................................................................................ 24
1.6.4.1 Rectangular meshes ........................................................................ 25
1.6.4.2 Skew meshes................................................................................... 26
1.6.4.3 Quadrilateral meshes....................................................................... 26
1.6.4.4 Polar meshes ................................................................................... 27
1.6.4.5 General truss ................................................................................... 27
1.6.4.6 Roof truss........................................................................................ 28
1.6.4.7 Portal frame .................................................................................... 29
1.6.4.8 General roof truss ........................................................................... 30
2.
STRUCTURE ATTRIBUTES.................................................31
2.1
Titles ........................................................................................................... 31
2.2
Material types ............................................................................................. 32
2.2.1
Materials ............................................................................................. 32
2.2.2
Young's modulus ................................................................................ 32
2.2.3
Modulus of rigidity ............................................................................. 32
2.2.4
Coefficient of linear thermal expansion.............................................. 33
2.2.5
Density................................................................................................ 33
2.2.6
Material name ..................................................................................... 33
2.3
Section types............................................................................................... 33
2.3.1
Sections............................................................................................... 33
2.3.2
General sections.................................................................................. 33
Page i
SuperSTRESS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2.3.3
Geometric sections.............................................................................. 34
2.3.4
Haunch sections .................................................................................. 35
2.3.5
Taper sections ..................................................................................... 36
2.3.6
Concrete sections ................................................................................ 36
2.3.7
Steel sections ...................................................................................... 39
2.3.8
Sections specified by geometry .......................................................... 39
2.3.8.1 Section geometry definition............................................................ 39
2.3.8.2 Solid rectangle section .................................................................... 41
2.3.8.3 Hollow rectangle section ................................................................ 41
2.3.8.4 Solid conic section .......................................................................... 43
2.3.8.5 Hollow conic section ...................................................................... 44
2.3.8.6 Octagon section .............................................................................. 45
2.3.8.7 I-section .......................................................................................... 46
2.3.8.8 T-section ......................................................................................... 47
2.3.8.9 L-section ......................................................................................... 48
2.3.8.10
H-section..................................................................................... 48
2.4
Joints........................................................................................................... 49
2.4.1
Joint co-ordinates................................................................................ 49
2.4.2
Joint numbers...................................................................................... 49
2.5
Joint supports .............................................................................................. 49
2.6
Members ..................................................................................................... 50
2.7
Releases ...................................................................................................... 50
2.7.1
Member releases ................................................................................. 50
2.7.2
Mechanisms ........................................................................................ 51
2.8
Limits.......................................................................................................... 51
2.8.1
Limits tables ....................................................................................... 51
2.8.2
Support limits ..................................................................................... 51
2.8.3
Member limits..................................................................................... 52
2.9
Loads .......................................................................................................... 53
2.9.1
Load definitions .................................................................................. 53
2.9.1.1 Loadcases........................................................................................ 53
2.9.1.2 Loadcase titles ................................................................................ 53
2.9.1.3 Load type ........................................................................................ 53
2.9.1.4 Load action ..................................................................................... 54
2.9.1.5 Load axes ........................................................................................ 54
2.9.2
Joint loads ........................................................................................... 55
2.9.2.1 Joint concentrated loads .................................................................. 55
2.9.2.2 Joint displacement loads ................................................................. 56
2.9.3
Member loads ..................................................................................... 57
2.9.3.1 Member concentrated load.............................................................. 57
2.9.3.2 Member full load ............................................................................ 58
2.9.3.3 Member self weight load ................................................................ 59
2.9.3.4 Member uniform load ..................................................................... 60
2.9.3.5 Member linear load ......................................................................... 61
2.9.3.6 Member point distortion load.......................................................... 62
2.9.3.7 Member full distortion load ............................................................ 63
2.9.3.8 Member temperature load ............................................................... 64
2.9.3.9 Member strain load ......................................................................... 65
2.9.4
Area loads ........................................................................................... 65
2.9.4.1 Load areas....................................................................................... 65
2.9.4.2 Area uniform loads ......................................................................... 68
2.9.4.3 Area load translation ....................................................................... 69
2.9.4.4 Area load dispersion ....................................................................... 71
3.
VIEWS .......................................................................................72
3.1
Explorer view ............................................................................................. 72

Page ii
SuperSTRESS
3.2
3.3
3.4
4.
Graphics view ............................................................................................. 75

Tables view................................................................................................. 75
Toolbars ...................................................................................................... 75
GRAPHICS ...............................................................................76
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
4.10
5.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Graphics properties ..................................................................................... 76

Input data graphics properties..................................................................... 77
Input label graphics properties.................................................................... 78
Load area graphics properties ..................................................................... 78
Loadcase graphics properties...................................................................... 79
Surfaces graphics properties ....................................................................... 81
Input scales graphics properties .................................................................. 82
Results graphics properties ......................................................................... 84
Output labels graphical properties .............................................................. 85
Output scales graphical properties .............................................................. 86
DRAWING ................................................................................88
5.1
Drawing interaction .................................................................................... 88
5.2
Drawing joints ............................................................................................ 88
5.2.1
Changing joints................................................................................... 88
5.2.2
Adding joints ...................................................................................... 90
5.2.3
Deleting joints..................................................................................... 91
5.2.4
Copying joints..................................................................................... 91
5.2.5
Translational joint copy ...................................................................... 93
5.2.6
Rotational joint copy........................................................................... 93
5.2.7
Mirrored joint copy............................................................................. 94
5.2.8
Moving joints...................................................................................... 95
5.2.9
SuperSTRESS drawing - translational joint move.............................. 96
5.2.10
Rotational joint move ......................................................................... 96
5.2.11
Mirrored joint move............................................................................ 98
5.2.12
Stretched joint move ........................................................................... 99
5.3
Drawing supports...................................................................................... 100
5.3.1
Changing supports ............................................................................ 100
5.3.2
Adding supports................................................................................ 101
5.3.3
Deleting supports .............................................................................. 102
5.4
Drawing support limits ............................................................................. 102
5.4.1
Changing support limits.................................................................... 103
5.4.2
Adding support limits ....................................................................... 104
5.4.3
Deleting support limits ..................................................................... 104
5.5
Drawing members..................................................................................... 105
5.5.1
Changing members ........................................................................... 105
5.5.2
Adding members............................................................................... 106
5.5.3
Deleting members ............................................................................. 108
5.5.4
Copying members ............................................................................. 109
5.5.5
Translational member copy .............................................................. 110
5.5.6
Rotational member copy................................................................... 110
5.5.7
Mirrored member copy ..................................................................... 112
5.5.8
Moving members .............................................................................. 112
5.5.9
Translational member move ............................................................. 113
5.5.10
Rotational member move.................................................................. 114
5.5.11
Mirrored member move .................................................................... 115
5.5.12
Stretched member move ................................................................... 116
5.5.13
Intersecting members........................................................................ 117
5.5.14
Dividing members ............................................................................ 118
5.6
Drawing releases....................................................................................... 118
5.6.1
Changing releases ............................................................................. 119
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SuperSTRESS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
5.6.2
Adding releases................................................................................. 120
5.6.3
Deleting releases ............................................................................... 121
5.7
Drawing member limits ............................................................................ 121
5.7.1
Changing member limits................................................................... 122
5.7.2
Adding member limits ...................................................................... 123
5.7.3
Deleting member limits .................................................................... 123
5.8
Drawing load areas ................................................................................... 124
5.8.1
Changing load areas.......................................................................... 124
5.8.2
Adding load areas ............................................................................. 125
5.8.3
Deleting load areas ........................................................................... 127
5.9
Drawing loads........................................................................................... 128
5.9.1
Changing loads ................................................................................. 128
5.9.2
Adding loads ..................................................................................... 129
5.9.3
Deleting loads ................................................................................... 131
6.
INPUT TABLES .....................................................................132

6.1
Input table operations ............................................................................... 132
6.1.1
Table operations................................................................................ 132
6.1.2
Paste special...................................................................................... 132
6.1.3
Add special ....................................................................................... 135
6.2
Input table import / export ........................................................................ 136
6.2.1
Import text ........................................................................................ 136
6.2.2
SURF import text.............................................................................. 137
6.2.3
Export text ........................................................................................ 139
6.2.4
Export text ........................................................................................ 140
6.3
Specific input tables.................................................................................. 141
6.3.1
Input tables ....................................................................................... 141
6.3.2
Titles table ........................................................................................ 141
6.3.3
Materials table .................................................................................. 142
6.3.4
Sections table .................................................................................... 144
6.3.5
Joints table ........................................................................................ 148
6.3.6
Supports table ................................................................................... 149
6.3.7
Support limits table........................................................................... 150
6.3.8
Members table .................................................................................. 152
6.3.9
Releases table.................................................................................... 153
6.3.10
Member limits table .......................................................................... 154
6.3.11
Load areas table ................................................................................ 155
6.3.12
Basic loads table ............................................................................... 156
6.3.13
Pattern loadcase table ....................................................................... 159
6.3.14
Combination loadcase table .............................................................. 160
6.3.15
SS-SURF input tables ....................................................................... 161
6.3.16
SS-SURF joint effects table .............................................................. 161
6.3.17
SS-SURF member effects table ........................................................ 161
6.4
Input table formats.................................................................................... 162
6.4.1
Table formats .................................................................................... 162
6.4.2
Job titles format ................................................................................ 162
6.4.3
Material types format........................................................................ 163
6.4.4
Sections format ................................................................................. 163
6.4.5
SuperSTRESS joints format ............................................................. 164
6.4.6
Supports format ................................................................................ 164
6.4.7
Members format................................................................................ 164
6.4.8
Releases format................................................................................. 164
6.4.9
Support limits format ........................................................................ 165
6.4.10
Member limits format ....................................................................... 165
6.4.11
Load areas format ............................................................................. 165
6.4.12
Loadcase titles format ....................................................................... 166
Page iv
SuperSTRESS
6.4.13
6.4.14
6.4.15
6.4.16
6.4.17
7.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Basic load entries format .................................................................. 166

Pattern load entries format ................................................................ 167
Combination load entries format ...................................................... 167
SS-SURF joint effects format ........................................................... 167
SS-SURF member effects format ..................................................... 168
TOOLS.....................................................................................169
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
7.8
7.9
7.10
7.11
8.
Tools overview ......................................................................................... 169

Wizards introduction ................................................................................ 169
Remove gaps............................................................................................. 170
Coincident members ................................................................................. 171
Merge joints.............................................................................................. 171
Merge members ........................................................................................ 173
Re-order joints .......................................................................................... 174
Re-order members .................................................................................... 175
Re-order member ends.............................................................................. 176
Delete results ............................................................................................ 178
Flip axes.................................................................................................... 178
OPTIONS ................................................................................179
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5
8.6
8.7
8.8
9.
Graphics.................................................................................................... 180
Drawing .................................................................................................... 182
Units and formats...................................................................................... 182
Pens........................................................................................................... 184
Fonts ......................................................................................................... 185
Area loading ............................................................................................. 185
Analysis .................................................................................................... 187
SS-SURF .................................................................................................. 189
ANALYSIS ..............................................................................190
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.7
9.8
9.9
9.10
9.11
9.12
9.13
10.
Analysis overview .................................................................................... 190

Analysis loadcases .................................................................................... 190
Analyse ..................................................................................................... 191
Data consistency checks ........................................................................... 192
Method of analysis.................................................................................... 193
Non-linear analysis ................................................................................... 193
Influence lines and surfaces...................................................................... 196
Shear component of deflection ................................................................. 199
Speed of solution ...................................................................................... 200
Ill-conditioning ......................................................................................... 200
Multiple structures .................................................................................... 201
Equilibrium check..................................................................................... 202
Analysis error messages ........................................................................... 203
OUTPUT..................................................................................209
10.1 Output overview ....................................................................................... 209

10.2 Output reports ........................................................................................... 209
10.2.1
Report wizard.................................................................................... 209
10.2.2
SS-SURF report wizard .................................................................... 210
10.3 Output tables............................................................................................. 211
10.3.1
Output of input tables ....................................................................... 211
10.3.1.1
Job summary output.................................................................. 212
10.3.1.2
Materials table output ............................................................... 212
10.3.1.3
Sections table output ................................................................. 212
10.3.1.4
Joints table output ..................................................................... 212
Page v
SuperSTRESS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
10.3.1.5
Supports table output ................................................................ 213
10.3.1.6
Support limits table output........................................................ 213
10.3.1.7
Members table output ............................................................... 214
10.3.1.8
Releases table output ................................................................ 214
10.3.1.9
Member limits table output ....................................................... 214
10.3.1.10 Load areas table output ............................................................. 215
10.3.1.11 Loadcase titles output ............................................................... 215
10.3.1.12 Loadcase entries output ............................................................ 215
10.3.2
Output of results ............................................................................... 215
10.3.3
Results table operations .................................................................... 216
10.3.3.1
Results filters ............................................................................ 216
10.3.3.2
Results loadcases ...................................................................... 217
10.3.4
Results tables .................................................................................... 217
10.3.4.1
Joint displacements ................................................................... 218
10.3.4.2
Support reactions ...................................................................... 218
10.3.4.3
Member end forces ................................................................... 219
10.3.4.4
Member end stresses ................................................................. 220
10.3.4.5
Maximum span forces............................................................... 221
10.3.4.6
Member force diagrams ............................................................ 222
10.3.4.7
Detailed span values ................................................................. 223
10.3.4.8
SS-SURF surfaces .................................................................... 224
10.3.5
Results table formats......................................................................... 224
10.3.5.1
Joint displacements format ....................................................... 224
10.3.5.2
Member end forces format........................................................ 224
10.3.5.3
Maximum span forces format ................................................... 225
10.3.5.4
Member end stresses format ..................................................... 225
10.3.5.5
Support reactions format........................................................... 225
10.3.5.6
SS-SURF surfaces format......................................................... 225
11.
11.1
11.2
12.
INTEGRATED SOFTWARE................................................226
SuperMODEL........................................................................................... 227
Program link organisation......................................................................... 227
APPENDIX - STEEL SECTION TABLES..........................228
12.1 UK steel sections ...................................................................................... 228

12.1.1
UBs, UCs, joists and UB pile sections.............................................. 228
12.1.2
Circular hollow sections ................................................................... 232
12.1.3
Circular welded hollow sections ....................................................... 244
12.1.4
Rectangular and square hollow sections ........................................... 246
12.1.5
Channel sections ............................................................................... 257
12.1.6
Angle sections................................................................................... 258
12.1.7
Castellated sections........................................................................... 260
12.1.8
Tee sections ...................................................................................... 263
12.2 World steel sections .................................................................................. 265
12.2.1
European wide flange beams ............................................................ 265
12.2.2
European I Beams............................................................................. 268
12.2.3
American (ASTM) wide flange beams ............................................. 270
13.
INDEX .....................................................................................277
Page vi
SuperSTRESS
1.
1.1
1.1.1
OVERVIEW
SuperSTRESS
overview
Overview
About
SuperSTRESS
SuperSTRESS is an evolution of STRESS (STRuctural Engineering Systems Solver)

which was the name given to a program for the linear elastic analysis of skeletal
structures. The original STRESS was developed at the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology in the early 1960's, since when it has been extended and modified to run
on many computers. Integer's SuperSTRESS Version 6.5 is the most sophisticated
extension.
SuperSTRESS covers the linear and non-linear analysis of six structural types. Each
type is assumed to be built of slender members connected at their ends to form joints.
In trusses the joints are assumed to be hinged whereas in frames the joints are
assumed rigid except where hinges are specifically inserted.
SuperSTRESS has been given Department of Transport Approval Number
MOT/EBP/272C.
SuperSTRESS has also received prior acceptance approval from the Hong Kong
Buildings Department, reference S0650.
1.1.2
Assumptions
The model analysed by SuperSTRESS is an idealisation of the actual structure. All

assumptions are traditional among engineers; no new ones are implied by the method
of solution or imposed by the requirements of computers.
The fundamental assumptions of linear structural behaviour are:
all members are slender and straight between joints

every member is made of perfectly elastic material
a cross-section which is plane before the structure is loaded remains perfectly
plane as the structure deforms under load
deformations are small in comparison to the dimensions of the structure
The following types of non-linear analysis are available:
large displacement analysis, where the actual displacements are used to

modify the structural geometry in subsequent analyses
tension or compression-only members, where non-complying members are
removed from subsequent analyses
one-way acting supports, where non-complying supports are removed from
subsequent analyses
Non-linear analysis is carried out in SuperSTRESS on an iterative basis with small

changes being made automatically between each cycle.
The art of idealising a structure within the constraints of these assumptions is called
'modelling'.
There are some assumptions and limitations which apply specifically to SuperSTEEL,
see steel design overview .
Page 1
SuperSTRESS
1.1.3
Running
SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
To run SuperSTRESS, from the Windows Start Bar click Programs. If you have
opted for an Integer Application Area during installation, pick this. Then pick
SuperSTRESS from the options available.
The standard installation of SuperSTRESS provides an application icon that may be
placed on the Desktop. Double clicking on this icon will load and run SuperSTRESS.
1.2
Structure types
1.2.1
Plane truss
In a plane truss, all member ends are hinged such as is traditionally assumed in the
design of a Warren or Fink roof truss. Loading can only be applied to joints and is
always in the plane of the structure.
The data requirements and limitations for the plane truss structure type are
summarised in the following table.
PLANE TRUSSES
Required
Allowed
Not Allowed *
Materials
Section Properties
Joint Co-ordinates
Member Rotations
Member Releases
Member Limits
Supports
Support Limits
Load Areas
Load Types
E
Ax
X, Z
DX, DZ
-
Dy, Dz, Ty, Tz

Fx
DX, DZ
Joint concentrated,
Joint displacement
G, ,
Ay, Az, Ix, Iy, Iz, Cy, Cz
Y
Beta
Dx, Dy, Dz, Rx, Ry, Rz
Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz
DY, RX, RY, RZ
DY, RX, RY, RZ
One-way, multi
All but Joint
concentrated, Joint
displacement
FY, MX, MY, MZ, DY,
RX, RY, RZ
Fx, Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz,
M, P
Load Actions (global) -
FX, FZ, DX, DZ
Load Actions (local)
Load Axes
* In some cases, values may be entered for these parameters, but will be ignored in
the analysis.
For a definition of E, G, , refer to Materials.
For a definition of Ax, Ay, Az, Ix, Iy, Iz, Cy, Cz, Dy, Dz, Ty, Tz refer to Sections .
Page 2
SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
For a definition of Beta refer to Member axes .

For a definition of Dx, Dy, Dz, Rx, Ry, Rz refer to Member releases .
For a definition of DX, DY, DZ, RX, RY, RZ refer to Supports and Support limits.
For a definition of load types refer to Load types .
For a definition of FX, FY, FZ, DX, DY, DZ, MX, MY, MZ, RX, RY, RZ, Fx, Fy,
Fz, Mx, My, Mz, Dx, Dy, Dz, Rx, Ry, Rz refer to Load actions .
For a definition of M, G, P refer to Load axes .
1.2.2
Plane frame
In a plane frame, joints are generally rigid such as in a portal frame or multi storey
building frame. Loading can be applied to joints and members and is always in the
plane of the structure.
The data requirements and limitations for the plane frame structure type are
PLANE FRAMES Required Allowed
Materials
E, G
,
Section Properties Ax, Iy
Az, Cz, Dy, Dz, Ty,
Tz
Joint Co-ordinates X, Z
Member Rotations Member Releases Dx, Ry
Member Limits
Fx
Supports
DX, DZ RY
Support Limits
DX, DZ
Load Areas
Load Types
All but Area uniform
Load Actions
FX, FZ, MY, DX,
(global)
DZ, RY
Load Actions
Fx, Fz, My, Dx, Dz,
(local)
Ry
Load Axes
M, G, P
Not Allowed *
Ay, Ix, Iz, Cy
Y
Beta
Dy, Dz, Rx, Rz
Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz
DY, RX, RZ
DY, RX, RY, RZ
One-way, multi
Area uniform
FY, MX, MZ, DY, RX, RZ
Fy, Mx, Mz, Dy, Rx, Rz
-
Page 3
SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
the analysis.
1.2.3
Grillage
In a grillage (or grid frame as it is also known), joints are generally rigid such as in a
bridge deck composed of longitudinal beams braced by cross members. Loading can
be applied to joints and members and is always normal to the plane of the structure.
The data requirements and limitations for the grid frame structure type are
GRID FRAMES Required
Materials
E, G
Section Properties Ix, Iy
Joint CoX, Y
ordinates
Member
Rotations
Member Releases Member Limits Supports
DZ
Support Limits
Load Areas
Load Types
Load Actions
(global)
Allowed
Ax, Az, Cz, Dy, Dz, Ty, Tz

-
Not Allowed *
Ay, Iz, Cy
Z
Beta
Rx, Ry
RX, RY
DZ
One-way, multi
All but Member
temperature, Member strain
FZ, MX, MY, DZ, RX, RY
Dx, Dy, Dz, Rz

Fx, Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz
DX, DY, RZ
DX, DY, RX, RY, RZ
Member temperature,
Member strain
FX, FY, MZ, DX, DY,
RZ
Page 4
SuperSTRESS
Load Actions
(local)
Load Axes
OVERVIEW
-
Fz, Mx, My, Dz, Rx, Ry
Fx, Fy, Mz, Dx, Dy, Rz
M, G
the analysis.
1.2.4
Space truss
In a space truss, all member ends are ball jointed as commonly assumed in the design
of power transmission towers and multi layer roofing systems spanning in two
directions. Loading can only be applied to joints and can be in any direction.
The data requirements and limitations for the space truss structure type are
SPACE TRUSSES
Materials
Section Properties
Joint Co-ordinates
Member Rotations
Member Releases
Member Limits
Supports
Support Limits
Load Areas
Required
E
Ax
X, Y, Z
DX, DY, DZ
-
Allowed
Dy, Dz, Ty, Tz
Fx
DX, DY, DZ
One-way, multi
Not Allowed *
G, ,
Ay, Az, Ix, Iy, Iz, Cy, Cz
Beta
Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz
RX, RY, RZ
RX, RY, RZ
Page 5
SuperSTRESS
Load Types
OVERVIEW
-
Load Actions (local) -
Joint concentrated,
Joint displacement,
Area uniform
FX, FY, FZ, DX,
DY, DZ
-
Load Axes
Load Actions (global) -
All but Joint concentrated,

Joint displacement, Area
uniform
MX, MY, MZ, RX, RY,
RZ
M, P
the analysis.
1.2.5
Space frame
In a space frame, joints are generally rigid such as in a dogleg staircase or threedimensional building frame. Loading can be applied to joints and members and can
be in any direction.
The data requirements and limitations for the space frame structure type are
SPACE FRAMES Required
Allowed
Materials
E, G
,
Section Properties Ax, Ix, Iy, Iz Ay, Az, Cy, Cz, Dy, Dz,
Ty, Tz
Joint Co-ordinates X, Y, Z
Member Rotations Beta
Not Allowed *
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
Member Releases
Member Limits
Supports
Support Limits
Load Areas
Load Types
Load Actions
(global)
DX, DY, DZ
-
Load Actions
(local)
Load Axes
Dx, Rx, Ry, Rz

Fx
RX, RY, RZ
DX, DY, DZ
One-way, multi
All
FX, FY, FZ, MX, MY,
MZ, DX, DY, DZ, RX,
RY, RZ
M, G, P
Dy, Dz
Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz
RX, RY, RZ
-
the analysis.
1.2.6
Sub frame
Sub frames are a subset of plane frames.

The sub frame structure type is for use in conjunction with SuperCONCRETE
modules.
Limitations are as for plane frames, but there are a number of important additional
restrictions on sub frames:
All members must be horizontal or vertical, ie they must be either parallel

to the global X or Z axes.
All members must have End1 at Z=0 (global). (Horizontal members will
therefore have both ends at Z=0 and will be classified as beams or slabs for the
purposes of SuperCONCRETE. Vertical members will have one end at Z=0
and will be classified as columns for the purposes of SuperCONCRETE.
Member limits are not allowed, because removal of members would inevitably
lead to loss of structural integrity.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
Local axis systems are not available.

Only Concrete section types are allowed.
Basic loadcases are restricted to Dead (Gk), Live (Qk) and Wind (Wk).
Combination loadcases are not allowed. (There is no limitation on editing the
standard BS8110 pattern loadcases that are created by default.)
In sub frames, the Structure Wizard sets up special support conditions and loadcases
to ensure correct modelling and compliance with BS8110.
The data requirements and limitations for the sub frame structure type are summarised
in the following table.
SUB FRAMES
Materials
Section Properties
Joint Co-ordinates
Member Rotations
Member Releases
Member Limits
Supports
Support Limits
Load Areas
Load Types
Load Actions (global)
Required
E, G
Ax, Iy
X, Z
DX, DZ
-
Load Actions (local) Load Axes

-
Allowed
,
Az, Cz, Dy, Dz, Ty, Tz
Dx, Ry
RY
DX, DZ
All but Area uniform
FX, FZ, MY, DX, DZ,
RY
Fx, Fz, My, Dx, Dz, Ry
M, G, P
Not Allowed *
Ay, Ix, Iz, Cy
Y
Beta
Dy, Dz, Rx, Rz
Fx, Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz
DY, RX, RZ
DY, RX, RY, RZ
One-way, multi
Area uniform
FY, MX, MZ, DY, RX,
RZ
Fy, Mx, Mz, Dy, Rx, Rz
-
the analysis.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
1.3
Sign conventions
1.3.1
Sign conventions
overview
The positions of joints in a structure are specified by co-ordinates in a Cartesian frame

of axes, called global axes, having an origin at any convenient location.
Sign conventions are related firstly to the global axes, then to any local axes selected,
and finally to the member axes current for each member.
The member x-axis runs along the member from End1 to End2 and the member y-axis
is always parallel to the global XY plane (subject to the beta angle being zero). These
conventions should be remembered when considering the parameters required for
each structure type.
Trusses
SuperSTRESS requires Ax only. Bending of members is not

considered as all joint/member connections are pinned.
Plane frames and Bending occurs about the member y-axis. Shear deformation
can occur in the direction of the member z-axis.
Sub Frames
1.3.2
Grid frames
Bending occurs about the member y-axis. Torsion occurs about

the member x-axis. Shear deformation can occur in the
direction of the member z-axis.
Space frames
Bending can occur about both the member y and z-axes.

Torsion can occur about the member x-axis. The primary axis
of bending is generally taken to be the member y-axis. Shear
deformation can occur in the direction of both the y and z-axes.
Global axes
The global axes are denoted X, Y and Z (upper case). In all structures the Z-axis is
'vertical' and the X and Y-axes are 'horizontal'.
Rotations are considered positive if clockwise about an axis when looking in the
positive axis direction.
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SuperSTRESS
1.3.3
Local axes
OVERVIEW
Local axes are primarily used during the screen drawing activity.
When entering a point using the crosshairs the current co-ordinates of the crosshairs
are displayed in a pop-up window. These co-ordinates relate to the current axes; this
will be either the Global axes or a Local axis system defined in the axes table.
The Local axes are related to the Global axes, and are used instead of the Global axes
wherever this is convenient.
Three basic rules apply to the orientation of the Local axes:
1.3.4
Member axes
The Local X axis may be in any direction, but it is then used to orientate the
Local Y and Z axes
The Local Y-axis is always parallel to the Global XY plane.
With one exception, the Local Z-axis and the Global Z-axis are always in the
same general direction. In precise terms this means that the angle between the
two axes is never greater than ninety degrees. The exception is that when the
angle is exactly ninety degrees this represents a special case and the Local Y
and Global Y-axes will be parallel and in the same direction.
The member axes are denoted x, y and z (lower case).

Every member has a direction that you define when entering that member.
Each member is assumed to run from End1 to End2. The member then has its
own set of axes x, y and z (lower case) with its origin at End1, x axis pointing
along the member from End1 to End2, and its y axis always parallel to the
global XY plane (unless rotated with a non-zero Beta angle).
In plane frames, sub frames and grid frames this means that the axis of bending of a
member is always about the member y-axis. In space frames, the axis of bending may
be about either or both of the y and z axes, although the y-axis will usually be
considered to be the primary axis of bending.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
Three basic rules apply to the orientation of the member axes regardless of structure
type. In space frames only, a non-zero beta angle will rotate the member about its xaxis (clockwise positive) from its default alignment as determined by these rules
The member x axis has its origin at End1 and runs along the member towards
End2.
The member y-axis is always parallel to the global XY plane.
The member z-axis and the global Z-axis are always in the same general
direction. In precise terms this means that the angle between the two axes is
never greater than ninety degrees. Where the angle is exactly ninety degrees,
the member is vertical and this represents a special case (see below), although
this can be summarised in that the member y and global Y axes will be parallel
and in the same direction.
There is a quite separate member rotation facility available (see Sections table) which
allows a standard section type to be rotated by 90, 180 or 270 degrees wh en copying
its properties from the library. This is the equivalent of turning an ' I ' section into a '
H ' section for example. Unless modified by a non-zero Beta angle, the resulting
member will be aligned in the default orientation described above.
There are some further restrictions for certain structure types as follows.
Plane trusses, plane frames and sub frames
All members lie in the global XZ plane. The member y-axis is always parallel to the
global Y-axis, but its direction (positive or negative) will be determined by the
orientation of the member. In plane frames, this may appear to produce different sign
conventions for bending in different members and explanatory information is
therefore added to the output.
Grid frames
All members lie in the global XY plane. The member z-axis is always parallel to and
in the same direction as the global Z-axis.
Vertical members in space frames
Vertical members in space frames can lead to some confusion. Compare the two
members A and B in the diagram below.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
If each were rotated about its y axis until vertical then there would, if no further
adjustment of either were to take place, be a conflict between the two. Both members
would be vertical but their member axes would be aligned differently. This is clearly
unacceptable. The third rule outlined above resolves the conflict by stating that in this
situation, the member y-axis always points in the same direction as the global Y-axis.
Member B, when it reaches the vertical, must therefore be rotated about its member xaxis so that its alignment matches member A, as shown below.
Floating point calculations performed by a computer usually incorporate rounding

errors, and it is therefore likely that certain members in a structure may be nearly, but
not quite, vertical. This can make it difficult to predict the alignment of the member
axes, so causing problems when applying member loads and defining section
properties.
A configurable tolerance value (set in the Tools/Settings/Analysis) option is used to
determine whether a member is vertical or not. This value defines a square cap. If
the deviation of the member from the vertical (per unit height) lies within this square
cap then it is deemed to be vertical and the member axis conventions for a vertical
member apply.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
The member axes graphics option can be used to display the alignment for selected
members if there is ever any doubt.
1.3.5
Steel section axes
The sign conventions used in SuperSTRESS are consistent for all structure types and
relate the Member axes to the Global axes of the structure.
In summary, the member local x axis runs from End1 to End2, and the local y and z
axes are aligned such that the y axis is always parallel to the global XY plane (ie
'horizontal').
BS5950, however uses sign conventions relating to the member cross section only:
the major axis of bending is referred to as x-x and the minor axis as y-y.
This could obviously lead to confusion, for instance Mx represents a torque in
SuperSTRESS but is the major axis bending moment in BS5950.
For this reason, SuperSTRESS and SuperSTEEL continue to use their own internally
consistent sign conventions, but all design output from SuperSTEEL is expressed in
terms of the variable names used in BS5950. For instance, Zy is the elastic modulus
about the minor axis.
With no rotation the member y axis (which without a Beta angle is horizontal) and the
BS5950 major axis x-x are coincident.
If the section is rotated when originally extracted from the Steel Section Tables into
the Section Table in SuperSTRESS, this would change matters. A rotation of 90
would align the BS5950 (minor) y-y axis with the member y axis (normally horizontal
as above).
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
Note that the rotation described here is not the same as the Beta angle rotation
described under member axes. This rotation has the effect of turning an 'I' section
into a 'H' section for instance. The resulting section's axes will still be aligned with
the global axes in the default orientation unless modified by the Beta angle.
1.3.6
Loading
convention
All loads act in the global, member or projected axes as specified. The sign
convention for each load is given in the description of the load types. It is important
to remember that the load will act in the positive axis direction. Therefore, to make a
global load act 'downwards', for example in a grid frame, the load value should be
negative.
Self-weight loading can be applied in the direction of any of the global axes, subject
to the structure type, and acts as a negative distributed load.
1.3.7
Tabulated output
convention
Displacements are positive in the direction of the positive global axes. Rotations are
positive clockwise looking along the positive global axis direction.
Axial forces are positive when acting in the direction of the member x-axis. A tensile
force is thus indicated by a negative force at End1 and a positive force at End2 (vice
versa for a compressive force). To clarify this a 't' or 'c' (tension or compression) is
printed after each value as appropriate
Shear forces are positive when acting in the positive member y or z-axis. This is true
regardless of which end of the member is under consideration. In a grid frame for
example, to sum the shear forces acting at a joint, simply add all the shear forces at
the member ends framing into that joint. If the joint is not supported or loaded then
the sum of the shear forces will be zero.
To clarify the sign convention for moments a 'h' or 's' (hogging or sagging) is printed
after each tabulated value
For moments My, a hogging moment produces tension in the side of the member in
the positive z direction (the 'top'). Hogging is indicated by a negative moment at
End1 or a positive moment at End2.
For moments Mz, a hogging moment produces tension in the side of the member in
the positive y direction (the 'top'). Hogging is indicated by a positive moment at End1
or a negative moment at End2.
1.3.8
Graphical output
convention
Graphical representation of displacements and loads are scaled diagrams with the
displacement or load acting in the global or member axis direction.
Graphical representation of moments, shears and axial force are special cases, since
engineers are familiar with these being presented in a particular way. The
descriptions below are for a single span fixed end beam.
Moments
Hogging
(positive)
Sagging
(negative)
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
Tabular output from SuperSTRESS has the hogging moments at the member ends
with opposite signs. In the graphical representation, SuperSTRESS therefore reverses
the sign of the moment at End1 so moments are shown in the normal way. Thus for
downward loading on a single member, the hogging moments at the two ends will
both be shown as positive and above the member. The sagging moment at midspan
will be shown as negative and below the member.
Shears
Positive
Negative
Shears are also in equal and opposite pairs positive is when the shear on the left
of the point in consideration is up (and down on the right). Engineers are used to
seeing this as a positive shear at the left hand end of the beam and a negative
shear at the right hand end. In tabular output, SuperSTRESS produces a positive
shear at both ends. In the graphical representation, SuperSTRESS therefore
reverses the sign of the shear at End2.
Axial force
Tension
(negative)
Compression
(positive)
In tabular output, tension is indicated by a negative force at End1 and a positive force
at End2 (vice versa for a compression force). Engineers are used to compression
positive and tension negative. In the graphical representation, SuperSTRESS
therefore reverses the sign of the axial force at End2.
See the Graphical Properties section for details on how to show results graphically.
1.4
Numerical display
1.4.1
Numerical display
Little attention is paid to the way numbers are presented in most frame analysis
programs. SuperSTRESS, however, goes to great lengths to allow you complete
control of the way numbers are presented to and presented by its user interface.
There are two important and mutually dependent aspects of presenting the value for a
particular item; units and formats. For instance, you may wish to specify joint coordinates in either metres or millimetres. If in metres, you would probably like to
specify the numbers to three decimal places. In millimetres you would probably like
to specify the numbers as integers (no decimal places). Or in either case you may
need to specify even greater accuracy for certain entries. SuperSTRESS allows a
wide permutation of units and formats.
One of the important features of SuperSTRESS is that you can change both units and
formats at any time. If you want to enter section values normally in millimetres, but
have a particular section whose details are supplied in inch units, you can simply
change the units for that item, and then change back again.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
The same features apply to output. You may have stresses in N/mm2, moments in
kNm and deflections in cm, and for each, you can specify the accuracy of input or
presentation.
1.4.2
Units
The units facility of SuperSTRESS allows you to set and change the units in which
values are entered and the units in which output is presented. A number of standard
tables are contained within SuperSTRESS, and custom sets can be created from these
and stored for future use.
The standard systems are:
dimensional
N, mm, deg, deg C
kN, m, deg, deg C
tonf, in, deg, deg C
kN, mm, deg, deg C
kgf, cm, deg, deg C
N, m, deg, deg C
tonnef, mm, deg, deg C
The dimensional system assumes that consistent units are used throughout. However,
these units are not named (for example tonnef) but referenced by their dimensions (for
example force, length). For instance density is f / l^3 (force divided by length cubed).
This system allows you to use unit systems not included as variations of the standard
systems.
During input to fields that are controlled by units, the current unit for the item is
shown to the right of the field. Moving the cursor over the unit changes the cursor to
a 'hand'. Now pick and a drop down selection list will appear showing the units
available for that item.
Note that, when units are changed, the values in the relevant fields are automatically
converted to the new units system.
Within SuperSTRESS, influence surface values are calculated and stored in internal
units that are always consistent. It is your responsibility to ensure that the units are
appropriate to the loading to be applied. For instance, if you are going to apply loads
expressed in kN, then you should ensure that the influence line values for moment
for example, are expressed in kNm/kN, and NOT kNm/N.
For information on how to change the unit settings for the job or the defaults for all
new jobs to inherit, see Unit settings.
1.4.3
Number formats
Formats control the way values are presented rather than input.
During input, even if the field suggests a certain accuracy, the value will be stored to
the accuracy of the input, even if this is not shown. Thus if the field allows space for
five digits and you enter nine, all nine will be stored and used during the analysis, but
only five will be shown after entry.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
However, for output presentation, the values stored within SuperSTRESS are to many
decimal places (typically thirteen), so it is up to you to decide what accuracy you
require. Of course, the units currently in use have an affect on the required accuracy.
To change the format for an entry in a dialog box, click the right-hand mouse button
over the field. This will produce a drop down selection list from which you can
choose the required format.
The format indicates the number of places after the decimal point. Note that '0' will
produce an integer number with the decimal point suppressed.
For information on how to change the format settings for the job or the defaults for all
new jobs to inherit, see Format settings.
1.5
File management
1.5.1
File management
For a description of the general features of file management, refer to SuperSUITE file
management.
There are two SuperSTRESS specific features, Import CAD and
are described in the following topics.
Export CAD that
These allow you to transfer information between SuperSTRESS and CAD programs
that support the DXF file format.
1.5.2
Import CAD
Data from CAD programs that support the DXF file format can be imported into
SuperSTRESS. The file must be compatible with AutoCAD Release 12 or higher.
When imported, the structure is moved to the SuperSTRESS origin.
Pick File / Import / CAD from the main menu bar and the following dialog will
appear.
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SuperSTRESS
AutoCAD Y
vertical axis
OVERVIEW
One of a pair of radio buttons that specifies what axis

system the AutoCAD model was created in. This is done
by picking the assumed vertical axis of the drawing in
AutoCAD. It is normal in AutoCAD to draw 2D models
in the XY plane and 3D models in the global XYZ system.
However, SuperSTRESS expects plane frames, subframes
and plane trusses to be in the XZ global plane and
grillages to be in the XY global plane. SuperSTRESS
expects space frames and trusses to be in the global XYZ
pane with Z vertical, which is identical to AutoCAD. For
plane frames, subframes and plane trusses, the Y button is
therefore enabled and the default; the Z button is dimmed
and not enabled. For grillages, the Z button is enabled
and the default; the Y button is dimmed and not enabled.
For space frames and trusses, both buttons are enabled and
the Z button is the default.
If the imported file contains joints that are not in the
expected plane, then the import is abandoned and a
relevant warning message issued.
Import to
existing
structure
File name:
See above.
Overwrite
One of a pair of radio buttons that controls what happens

to the existing structure during the import. Picking this
button results in the existing joints and members being
deleted and then replaced by the imported joints and
members. All data associated with the deleted joints and
members such as loads, supports etc will also be deleted.
Append
Picking this button results in the imported joints and

members being added to the existing joints and members.
New joints and members are added at the first available
entries, re-using any deleted entries.
Enter (or browse for) the name of a DXF file containing
the information you wish to import.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
Pick Next to move to the second page of the dialog.
As soon as next is pressed on page one, the specified file is opened and the CAD
Layer information in it is read.
Layer selection
The names of the layers from the specified file are inserted in
the layer selection area of the dialog. Tick the check box next
to each of the layers that contain line and arc information you
wish to use in your structure. Note that if you have complex
entities in your CAD data, these must be exploded by the
CAD program to form the line types described below before
importing the data.
Tick this check box if you wish to use CAD line and polyline
Generate from
LINEs/POLYLINEs data in your structure.
Generate from
ARCs
Tick this check box if you wish to use CAD arc and circle data
in your structure.
Max chord length

mm:
If the Generate from ARCs box is ticked, then this field

becomes editable. Enter a value in the field for the maximum
chord length. Arcs in the CAD file are converted into a
number of equal length straight line chords. The length of the
chords is less than or equal to the max chord length value.
Import
Pressing this button will import and convert the CAD data,
close the dialog and refresh the current graphical view to show
the imported joints and members. During import a number of
checks are carried out to ensure consistency of the data. If any
errors are found, warning messages are displayed and the
dialog remains open.
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SuperSTRESS
1.5.3
Export CAD
OVERVIEW
Data from SuperSTRESS can be exported into a file for use by CAD programs that
support the DXF file format. The CAD program must be compatible with AutoCAD
Release 12 or higher.
Pick File / Import / CAD from the main menu bar and the following dialog will
appear.
AutoCAD
vertical axis
One of a pair of radio buttons that specifies what axis

system the AutoCAD drawing will be created in.
This is done by picking the vertical axis of the
drawing to be produced in AutoCAD. It is normal in
AutoCAD to draw 2D models in the XY plane and
3D models in the global XYZ system. However,
SuperSTRESS creates plane frames, subframes and
plane trusses in the XZ global plane and grillages in
the XY global plane. SuperSTRESS creates space
frames and trusses in the global XYZ pane with Z
vertical, which is identical to AutoCAD. For plane
frames, subframes and plane trusses, the Y button is
therefore enabled and the default; the Z button is
dimmed and not enabled. For grillages, the Z button
is enabled and the default; the Y button is dimmed
and not enabled. For space frames and trusses, both
buttons are enabled and the Z button is the default.
As above.
Export to DXF Overwrite

file
existing file
One of a pair of radio buttons that controls what

happens to the existing structure during the export.
This button is always depressed (ON), so the
exported data will always overwrite any file
specified.
Append to
existing file
This button is always OFF and dimmed, so the

exported data will never be appended to data in an
existing file.
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SuperSTRESS
File name:
OVERVIEW
Enter (or browse for) the name of a file to contain the
DXF information you wish to export. If the file does
not exist, you will be asked if you wish it to be
created.
Pick Next to move to the second page of the dialog.
Structure set:
A drop down selection list containing the names of all the

structure sets, including ALL and CURRENT, in the job. Pick
the structure set that you wish to form the exported drawing file.
The default is ALL.
Member centreline A check box and field to enable the entry of a name for the layer
(if any) that the member centreline lines are to be added to. The
default is ticked and the name 'MEMBERS'.
Member profile:
A check box and field to enable the entry of a name for the layer
(if any) that the member profile lines are to be added to. The
default is ticked and the name 'MEMBERPROFILE'.
Export
Pick this button to initiate the Export. See below for notes on the
exported data.
Checks are made on the data during the export and warning
messages generated if necessary.
Notes:
The member centrelines will be coloured blue.

The member profiles will be coloured yellow.
Member profiles that intersect will not be truncated at the intersection. This
can be tidied up in the CAD program if required.
Rendering / shading in the CAD program is only possible if the member
profiles are exported.
All lines generated are 3D polylines. These are defined as CONTINUOUS ie
solid.
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SuperSTRESS
1.6
Getting started
1.6.1
Wizards
OVERVIEW
General, Haunch and Taper Section Types are not supported by the member
profile export. If members with these section types are in the specified
structure set, then the profiles will not be generated, just the centrelines (but
on the profile layer).
Having loaded SuperSTRESS from the Windows icon / shortcut, the New Job and
Open Job options are available from the main menu bar.
SuperSTRESS provides two Wizards for beginning a job and building a structure.
These Wizards provide very powerful features to generate a great deal of information
quickly and directly.
Also provided is a powerful Report Wizard that enables you to collate your input and
output data in a professional report.
1.6.2
New job wizard
The New Job Wizard is immediately accessed each time a new job is started. The
New Job Wizard enables you to quickly and easily enter and modify the page header
titles, the Structure Type, and also provides access to the Structure Wizard via the
Structural Form option.
Job Title:
enter a string of characters (max 49)
Structure:
as above
Job Number:
as above (max 19)
Made By:
as above
Date:
this is automatically entered as today's date by SuperSTRESS,

but may be edited if required.
Length units
enter a unit for length to be used in the Structure Wizard. This

defaults to the unit for length as in the units facility.
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
Angle units
enter a unit for angles to be used in the Structure Wizard. This

defaults to the unit for angles as in the units facility.
Structure Type
this provides a choice of six structural types:

Plane Truss
Plane Frame
Grid Frame
Space Truss
Space Frame
Sub Frame
Structural Form various standard structural forms are already built into
SuperSTRESS to save you time in specifying your job. If you
specify a structural form here you will automatically continue in
the Structure Wizard, otherwise you will start SuperSTRESS in
a completely blank graphics window.
1.6.3
Structure wizard
The Structure Wizard enables you to specify the topology of part or the whole of your
structural model with a few keystrokes.
If you enter the Structure Wizard via the New Job Wizard, then the Structural Form
will already have been specified. Otherwise you must specify it on entry to the option
via Tools / Structure Wizard.
In sub frames, only one structural form is available Simple Frame. This is available
from the new job wizard, but not from the structure wizard
The following structural forms are available:
Meshes
Rectangular mesh
Skew mesh
Quadrilateral mesh
Polar mesh
General truss
Roof truss
Portal frame
General roof truss
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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
These forms are defined in the following topics.
1.6.4
Meshes
The mesh generation facility of SuperSTRESS enables the generation of regular

patterns of joints and members from a few simple entries. Both two-dimensional and
three-dimensional meshes can be generated. In plane trusses and plane frames the
mesh is always created in the XZ plane. In grid frames the mesh is created in the XY
plane. In three-dimensional structures the base mesh is created in any of the
orthogonal planes XY, XZ or YZ. The default is XY. In all cases, the Z axis is taken
to be vertical and the 3D mesh, where generated, is referenced by 'top' and 'bottom'
planes. Note that the meshes may be defined in terms of the global axes or any of the
local axis systems as specified.
A new mesh can be grafted onto an existing structure. Thoughtful use of joint and
member numbering of the new mesh can avoid any duplication of joints and
members. The merge joints and merge members facilities enable the elimination of
doubly defined joints and members at the interface of meshes, should any occur.
The mesh is created in the plane as described above, and always has four sides.
In three dimensions, the basic mesh type is extended normal to the plane of definition
to form a prism. There is no change to the mesh shape or dimensions as it is extended
in the third dimension. The basic mesh is referred to as the Bottom, being the lower
ordinate in the third dimension; the higher is the Top.
The basic joint data is defined first. Some of the items outlined below may not be
needed for the particular mesh type being defined. Refer to the specifications
following if in doubt.
Origin
The origin of the mesh in terms of the global or local coordinates X, Y, Z. In the case of a Polar mesh, the Mesh
origin is still defined in these Cartesian Co-ordinates.
Primary Plane
XY / YZ / XZ - the plane in which the mesh is to be

defined. Some planes are not applicable to certain
structural types, in which case they will not be available.
The mesh can be extended in the third dimension
perpendicular to the plane of definition, but the crosssectional shape remains unchanged.
Offsets
The perpendicular offset of the specified side from the

axes in the plane of definition. These values will control
the rotation / skew of the mesh.
Offset angle / Inner

radius
This defines the first point on the inner face in terms of a

polar co-ordinate system to define a Polar mesh.
Starting joint / member Joints and members are automatically generated at every
mesh intersection and along the mesh lines respectively.
number
You can control the numbering of the joints / members by
entering a starting joint / member and a numbering
direction relative to one of the current axes.
Numbering direction
You can set the direction of the joint numbering to be

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SuperSTRESS
OVERVIEW
prioritised in either of the axes in the current plane. In a
3D mesh the numbering in the normal direction is always
the lowest priority.
You can specify intervals on the mesh sides as entries in a table. Each entry can
define any number of equally spaced bays.
Number of bays
The number of bays to be generated by this entry. The

number of mesh intersections generated by this entry will
of course be equal to this number plus one.
Bay width
The size of the bay. All the intersection points generated

by this entry will be equally spaced. To generate
unequally spaced intersection points add another entry to
the table with a different bay size.
Multiple entries in the interval table can be used to define the side of a mesh in which
the bay widths between intersection points change. For example, a side could
comprise 3 bays of 2.0m, 4 bays of 1.5m and 2 bays of 4.0m.
In quadrilateral meshes, although the bay lengths on opposite sides need not
correspond, the total number of bays on opposite sides must be equal. Furthermore,
the side lengths must be specified so that it is physically possible to set out the mesh
correctly. For example, the geometry of Side 1 plus its offset and Side 4 plus its
offset will set a minimum value to the combined lengths of Side 2 and Side 3.
Finally, you are able to control whether members are generated or not on any face of
the mesh. If members are generated then the face is 'closed'; otherwise it is 'open'.
Face member
removal
Open / Closed. You must specify whether members are to be

generated on the faces of the mesh. If Open then members will
not be generated. If Closed then members will be generated. If
generating a grid frame to model a bridge deck then all faces
will usually be Closed. If modelling a multi-storey building
then the bottom face would be Open.
There are four basic mesh types as follows:

rectangular
quadrilateral
skew (a parallelogram)
polar
The following topics describe the data items that are required to define each mesh
type.
1.6.4.1
Rectangular
meshes
The following items are required to define a rectangular mesh

Origin (X, Y and Z).
Primary plane (XY, YZ or XZ).
Axes in which the mesh is defined.
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OVERVIEW
Starting joint number.

Starting member number.
Whether members are to be generated a well as joints.
Offset of Side 1.
Intervals on Side 1 (Side 3 identical).
Joint numbering direction.
Member numbering direction.
Intervals in the normal direction if 3D.
Face member generation removal (open/closed).
1.6.4.2
Skew meshes
The following items are required to define a skew mesh

Offset of Side 1.
Offset of Side 4.
1.6.4.3
Quadrilateral
meshes
The following items are required to define a quadrilateral mesh

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OVERVIEW

Offset of Side 1.
Offset of Side 4.
Intervals on Side 1.
1.6.4.4
Polar meshes
Note that when generating a polar mesh, the angles to be input are as shown in the
key diagram for the chosen primary plane. This does not necessarily comply with the
normal angular sign convention.
The following items are required to define a polar mesh
Polar origin in Cartesian co-ordinates X, Y and Z.
Primary Plane (XY, YZ or XZ).
Offset angle for starting point.
Inner radius.
Intervals on Side 4 (angular - Side 2 identical).
1.6.4.5
General truss
The following items are required to define a general truss:

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OVERVIEW

The truss type or 'style'. This is one of
Warren
Pratt
Howe
Lattice
Braced Vierendeel
Number of trusses
The following attributes apply to certain truss types only:
square ends
half truss
invert
mirror
Selecting any of these automatically modifies the truss style.
Number of bays, bay width along truss
Number of bays, bay width normal to truss (space trusses only)
Truss depth
1.6.4.6
Roof truss
The following items are required to define a roof truss:

Fink
Single fan
Double fan
Special
Number of trusses
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OVERVIEW

half truss
invert
mirror
Number of divisions on left-hand rafter
Number of divisions on right-hand rafter
Truss depth
Width to left of apex
Width to right of apex
1.6.4.7
Portal frame
The following items are required to define a portal frame:

Number of bays
Member widths and heights
LH column height
LH diagonal height
LH diagonal width
Centre span width
RH diagonal width
RH diagonal height
RH column height
Whether an eaves tie is present
Member divisions
LH column divisions
LH diagonal divisions
Centre span divisions
RH diagonal divisions
RH column divisions
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OVERVIEW
Number of bays, bay width normal to frame (space frames only)
1.6.4.8
General roof truss
The following items are required to define a general roof truss:

Pratt
Howe
Lattice
Vierendeel
Number of trusses
square ends
half truss
bracing
Number of bays, bay width along truss (LHS and RHS)
Truss depth (LHS, centre and RHS)
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SuperSTRESS
2.
Structure attributes
2.1
Titles
STRUCTURE ATTRIBUTES
Basic information is provided here to identify the job and the structure, the engineer
who created the job and the date the job was created.
Job Number:
enter a string of characters (maximum 19)
Job Title:
as above (maximum 49)
Structure:
as above
Made By:
as above (maximum 19)
Date:
this is automatically entered as today's date by SuperSTRESS,

but may be edited if required
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SuperSTRESS
The Job Info tab in the Titles dialog contains information on the data entered into
SuperSTRESS. It is not editable.
2.2
Material types
2.2.1
Materials
The Materials table defines the physical properties of the materials used for the
members of the frame. Every member defined in the Member table must be
referenced to a Material Type by its Type number. The attributes of each material are
described in the following Sections.
2.2.2
Young's modulus
Always essential for solution.
Young's modulus, or the modulus of elasticity, is the ratio of stress to strain for a
material. In SuperSTRESS, this relationship is always linear, i.e. only perfectly
elastic materials can be used.
A value for Young's modulus must be entered for all structure types.
2.2.3
Modulus of
rigidity
This is only required for those members for which shear deformation is to be taken
into account, eg members in plane frames with Az defined, and in grillages and
space frames where torques are calculated.
G, also known as the shear modulus, is related to E by Poisson's ratio, .

G= E
2(1+ )
A value for G is required for plane frames, grillages and space frames.
A value for G is not allowed and cannot be entered in plane trusses or space trusses.
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2.2.4
Coefficient of
linear thermal
expansion
This is only required for those members to which a temperature change is being
applied.
The coefficient of linear thermal expansion is the linear strain induced in an elastic
material caused by a unit rise in temperature. Since strain is dimensionless, the units
are 'per degree'.
is not allowed in plane trusses grillages or space trusses, but is optional in plane
frames and space frames.
2.2.5
Density
This is only required for structures that have members to which a selfweight load is applied. The self-weight per unit length is calculated as
the product of Ax and the density.
Density is defined as the force of gravity per unit volume of material. The units of
density are therefore force per unit volume, rather then mass per unit volume.
In a plane frame the self-weight can act in either the X or Z global axes; the default is
Z.
In a grid frame, all loads are normal to the structure, so the self-weight acts in the
global Z axis.
In a space frame self-weights can act in the X, Y or Z global axes; the default is Z.
The self weight acts in the opposite direction to the specified axis.
Density is not available for plane trusses and space trusses.
2.2.6
Material name
2.3
Section types
2.3.1
Sections
Material name The name can be used as an identification of the material in output
listings and reports. You are allowed a maximum of 50 characters.
The Sections table defines the cross-sectional properties of the members to be used in
the structure. Each section must be defined as one of the following:
General
Geometric
Haunch
Taper
Concrete
The section outline can be drawn in the graphical view to help checking that the
section is the correct type and has the correct orientation. See Graphics Properties .
2.3.2
General sections
General sections are defined in terms of previously calculated parameters such as Ax,
Iy etc. These parameters can be found in a variety of printed sources and are also
available in computer data format from which they can be directly imported into
SuperSTRESS. Standard Steel Section tables are available from Integer for the
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SuperSTRESS
common UK steel sections and these may be customised and supplemented by tables
from other sources.
The following properties can be entered: Ax
The cross-sectional area of the member normal to the member x-axis.
Ay, Az
The shear areas of the member corresponding to shear force acting in the
direction of the member y and z-axes. Note that sections imported from
the SCI Section Tables will have both shear areas set to zero. Shear
areas are not allowed in plane trusses or space trusses.
Ix
The torsional moment of inertia (or torsional constant) of the member

cross-section about its longitudinal axis. Ix is not allowed in plane
trusses, plane frames or space trusses.
Iy, Iz
The second moments of area about the member y and z axes. Iy is

required for plane frames, grillages and space frames. Ix and Iy are not
allowed in trusses.
Cz, Cy
The distance from the member y or z-axis respectively to any point at

which a stress is to be calculated. Distances are positive in the y or z
positive directions. Note that Cz is used for bending about the y-axis and
Cy for bending about the z-axis.
Name
The name can be used as an identification of the section. Maximum 50

characters.
For plane trusses and space trusses, SuperSTRESS must be supplied with Ax. For
plane frames, SuperSTRESS must be supplied with Ax and Iz. For grids,
SuperSTRESS must be supplied with Ix and Iy. For space frames, SuperSTRESS
must be supplied with Ax, Ix, Iy, and Iz.
Ay and Az are optional and are supplied for those members for which shear
deformation is to be taken into account. Members not allocated a value for Ay and
Az are assumed to be infinitely resistant to shear deformation (the same as the
engineer's usual assumption in Moment Distribution and other traditional methods of
analysis).
If Ay or Az is supplied for any member then a corresponding value for shear modulus
G must also be supplied through the Material Type.
If calculation of stresses is not required then both Cy and Cz can be omitted.
2.3.3
Geometric sections
Geometric sections are defined in terms of a geometrical shape from which

SuperSTRESS automatically calculates the properties when required. The standard
shapes available are:
Rectangular
Conic (circular or elliptical)
Octagonal
I section
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SuperSTRESS
T section
L section
H section
The following properties can be entered:
Dy, Dz
The overall dimensions in the member y and z directions.
Ty, Tz
The thickness in the member y and z directions.
Cy, Cz
The distance from the member z or y-axis to any point at which a stress
is to be calculated. Distances in the y or z direction are positive.
Name
The name can be used as an identification of the section. Maximum 50

characters.
Rectangular, conic and octagonal sections are assumed solid unless a thickness is
specified, in which case they are assumed hollow.
An octagonal section must always be symmetrical.
therefore not required.
Values for Dz and Tz are
The section properties required by the analysis are calculated from the geometric
dimensions see Section geometry definition . Note that values are always calculated
for the shear areas Ay and Az, and that the component of shear deflection will be
incorporated in the in-span member deflection. This relies on an accurate value for
the modulus of rigidity being defined for the relevant material.
In a plane frame the effect of the use of the modulus of rigidity in determining the inspan displacements is not always appreciated, especially as it is not used when
determining the behaviour of the structure as a whole. Inappropriate values for the
modulus of rigidity can result in very large in-span member displacements in a
structure that appears to have quite normal joint displacements. You can eliminate
the calculation of the shear deflection (in the case of a plane frame) by transposing the
properties calculated for the geometric section into an equivalent General section ,
and setting the Ay and Az properties to zero.
2.3.4
Haunch sections
The haunch is a varying section built up of an I section plus an inverted T section.

The haunch section is assumed to consist of an already defined I section with an
inverted T welded to the underside. The T section is tapered such that it has zero
depth at one member end and a depth of Dh at the other.
The following parameters are required:
S1
Base I section. A general I profile section imported from the Steel

Tables.
Dh
The depth of the Inverted T section. At mid-span the depth is assumed to

be Dh/2.
Tw
T section web thickness.

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SuperSTRESS
Tf
T section flange thickness.
Wf
T section flange width.
Cz
The distance from the member y-axis to any point at which a stress is to
be calculated. Distances are positive in the z positive direction. Note
that Cz is used for bending about the y-axis.
The section properties at mid-span are calculated from the dimensions of the base
section plus the haunch properties assuming a depth of Dh/2. For the purposes of the
analysis the properties of a haunch member type are assumed to be those calculated at
the mid-span.
2.3.5
Taper sections
A taper is a varying section tapering from one base geometric section to another base
geometric section.
The dimensions of a taper section are taken to be the average of the section at End1
and the section at End2. For the purposes of the analysis the properties of the section
are taken to be those of the average dimensions.
The following parameters are required:
S1
The member type at End1.
S2
The member type at End2.
Both S1 and S2 must be previously defined geometric sections with the same profile.
Do not confuse 'S1" and "S2" with the "S" used to identify a standard steel section.
Standard steel sections cannot be used with the taper section type.
2.3.6
Concrete sections
Concrete sections are used principally in conjunction with SuperCONCRETE

modules.
Concrete sections are defined in terms of a geometrical shape from which
SuperSTRESS automatically calculates the properties when required. The standard
shapes available are:
General I
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SuperSTRESS
Rectangular I
Tapered I
Rectangular T
Tapered T
Inverted tapered T
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SuperSTRESS
Simple rectangular
Tapered
rectangular
Simple circular
The following properties can be entered:

od
The overall dimension of the member in the z direction.
wwt, wwb
The thickness of the web (in the y direction) at the top and bottom
(on the inner face of the flange where present).
tfl, tfr, tfd
The dimensions of the top flange. tfl is the left dimension, tfr is
the right dimension and tfd is the flange depth. tfl and tfr are
measured from the centre line (z-axis) in the y direction. tfd is
measured in the z direction.
bfl, bfr, bfd
The dimensions of the bottom flange. bfl is the left dimension, bfr
is the right dimension and bfd is the flange depth. bfl and bfr are
measured from the centre line (z-axis) in the y direction. bfd is
measured in the z direction.
Cy, Cz
Cz is the distance from the member y-axis to any point at which a

stress is to be calculated. Distances in the y direction are positive.
Cy is always zero and is not editable.
Name
The name can be used as an identification of the section. Maximum

50 characters.
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SuperSTRESS
The section properties required by the analysis are calculated from the geometric
dimensions as generally described in Section geometry definition. However, for
sections with tapering webs, the contribution of the tapering portion of the web is
ignored.
Note that values are not calculated for the shear areas Ay and Az, so that the
component of shear deflection will not be incorporated in the in-span member
deflection. Fields for Ay, Az are zeroed and dimmed.
2.3.7
Steel sections
The properties of a general section can be imported from any compatible steel
sections file. This is accessed from the Tables / Sections menu. The steel sections
file currently in use is specified in Tools / Options / General / Files.
A complete listing of the steel section tables available for use in SuperSTRESS and
SuperSTEEL is in a separate section. See SuperSTRESS steel section tables.
Details of how to transfer the section properties from the steel sections file to the
Section table are given in the Sections table description.
The steel section tables provided as standard (at additional cost) with SuperSTRESS
are the UK Sections and World Sections. Alternative steel tables can be used,
providing sections that comply with different dimensional specifications. All
sections, however, must be mappable to a standard UK section profile and have all the
data items required for the design process. Alternative steel section tables can be
specified in the Tools / Settings option, but these must be of the correct binary file
format to be recognised. Contact Integer if you wish to prepare such a file. A steel
sections generator is available from Integer, please also contact the support
department for details
Once installed any alternative section tables will be accessible from the drop-down
selection list in Settings on the Files tab. The files must be installed in the System
Files Folder see Files/Configure.
2.3.8
Sections specified
by geometry
2.3.8.1
Section geometry
definition
The formulae used by SuperSTRESS in the computation of section properties are

given. The Engineer is also referred to:
1. 'Formulas for Stress and Strain' by Roark, Published by McGraw Hill
2. 'Reinforced Concrete Designer's Manual' by Reynolds, Published by Concrete
Publications Ltd
3. 'Steel Designers' Manual' published by Crosby Lockwood
In the formulae the following SuperSTRESS variable names have been substituted for
the symbols used by Roark and Reynolds.
Dy :
the overall dimension in the local y direction
Dz :
the overall dimension in the local z direction
Ty :
the thickness in the local y direction

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SuperSTRESS
Tz :
the thickness in the local z direction
Ax :
the cross sectional area of the member
Ay :
the shear area of the member corresponding to shear force acting in the
direction of the local y axis
Az :
the shear area of the member corresponding to shear force acting in the
direction of the local z axis
Ix :
the torsional moment of inertia ( or torsional constant ) of the member crosssection about its longitudinal axis
Iy :
the second moment of area ( moment of inertia ) of the cross-section about

the local y axis
Iz :
the second moment of area ( moment of inertia ) of the cross-section about

the local z axis
The axes displayed in the figures refer to the local axes.

Sections specified by geometry include:
Solid Rectangle
Hollow Rectangle
Solid Conic
Hollow Conic
Octagon
I-Section
T-Section
L-Section
H-Section
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SuperSTRESS
2.3.8.2
Solid rectangle
section
Note that some section properties are not appropriate for some structure types.
A solid rectangle is produced if the values TY and Tz are entered as zero.
Square is a special case when D = Dy = Dz
2.3.8.3
Hollow rectangle
section
RHS is a special case when T = Ty = Tz
SHS is a special case when T = Ty = Tz and Dy = Dz
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SuperSTRESS
2.3.8.4
Solid conic section
A solid conic is produced if the values TY and Tz are entered as zero.
Circle is special case when D = Dy = Dz
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SuperSTRESS
2.3.8.5
Hollow conic
section
SuperSTRESS does not allow a non-uniform wall thickness for hollow conic sections.
CHS is a special case when D = Dy = Dz
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SuperSTRESS
2.3.8.6
Octagon section
SuperSTRESS does not allow a variation in wall thickness for hollow octagon
sections.
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SuperSTRESS
2.3.8.7
I-section
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SuperSTRESS
2.3.8.8
T-section
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SuperSTRESS
2.3.8.9
L-section
For Tz < Ty, swap Dz with Dy and Tz with Ty in the above formula for Ix.
2.3.8.10 H-section
The properties of H-Sections are calculated using the same formulas as I sections
properties.
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SuperSTRESS
2.4
Joints
2.4.1
Joint co-ordinates
Joints are positioned in space by reference to global Cartesian axes. Thus, while
during use of SuperSTRESS, reference is made to member axes, local axes and
projected axes for convenience; the actual joint positions are stored, and displayed in
tables, in global axes. In the global axis system, the origin is normally taken to be at
the bottom left corner of the structure, as viewed by default on the screen, but this is
not essential; it conveniently makes all the co-ordinates positive.
Plane frames and plane trusses are defined in the XZ global plane.
Grillages are defined in the XY global plane.
Space frames and space trusses are defined in general XYZ space.
2.4.2
Joint numbers
The joint numbers need not be contiguous as SuperSTRESS renumbers the joints
internally before the analysis in order to reduce the maximum node number difference
and so increase efficiency. This means that undefined entries can be left in the joint
table so that joints can be numbered according to a specific scheme. For example,
level one joints could be numbered from one hundred onwards, level two from two
hundred, level three from three hundred and so on.
2.5
Joint supports
All joints are considered unrestrained unless supports are specifically introduced. The
possible restraints of a joint depend on the structure type:
Plane truss DX, DZ
Plane frame DX, DZ, RY
Grid frame DZ, RX, RY
Space truss DX, DY, DZ
Space frame DX, DY, DZ, RX, RY, RZ
Where, for instance, DX represents a Displacement restraint in the X direction, and
RY represents a Rotational restraint about the Y-axis.
The restraint directions are always related to the global axes and are independent of
any member framing into the joint.
The possible values of each restraint are as follows:
Rigid
A rigid restraint. The joint is rigidly fixed in the direction of or about the sp
global axis.
Free
No restraint. The joint is completely free to move in the direction of or ab

specified axis.
Spring
An elastic spring support. The displacement of the joint in the specified direc
proportional to the reaction in that direction. The value of the spring represents th
required to displace the joint by a unit distance (or unit rotation). The units for a
spring restraint (DX, DY or DZ) are therefore force per unit displacement, an
rotational spring restraint (RX, RY or RZ) are moment per unit rotation.
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SuperSTRESS
2.6
Members
2.7
Releases
2.7.1
Member releases
Every member in the structure must have all of the following attributes specified
(except for beta angle, which only applies to Space Frames):
End1
The joint at the start of the member. End1 is the origin of the
member axes.
End2
The joint at the end of the member. The member x-axis runs from
End1 to End2.
Material type
The number of the Material type as defined in the Materials table.
Section type
The number of the Section type as defined in the Sections table.
Beta angle
The rotation through which the member is rotated about its x-axis.
A positive beta angle is measured clockwise when looking in the
direction of the member x axis. This angle is only available for
Space Frames.
In frame structures, as opposed to trusses, all members are initially assumed to be

fully fixed to the joint at each end. If a member is hinged, or has an axial or torsional
release at either end, then it must be entered in this table. If a member is fully fixed at
each end then it does not have to be entered in this table. Because all members in
truss structures are always assumed to be pinned at both ends, this table has no
relevance to them.
The possible releases that can be applied to a member depend on the Structure Type.
Plane truss None
Plane frame Dx, Ry
Grid frame Rx, Ry
Space truss None
Dx, Rx, Ry, Rz
Space
frame
Dx refers to an axial release. This makes the member to which the release is applied
behave like a telescope. It is not permissible to apply an axial release to both ends of
a member as that member would then be totally unrestrained in the member x
direction, and could fly off like an arrow.
Rx refers to a torsional release. In other words, at the end to which the release is
applied, there will be no transfer of torsion from the joint to the member or vice-versa.
As with the axial release, it is not permissible to apply the torsional release to both
ends of the same member. In this case the member would be free to spin like an axle.
Ry and Rz refer to pins or hinges about the specified member axis of bending. At the
end to which the release is applied, there will be no transfer of moment (about the
specified member axis) from the member to the joint or vice-versa. Typically, a Ry
release applied to both ends of a member in a plane frame would make it behave as a
simply supported beam.
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SuperSTRESS
2.7.2
Mechanisms
A common problem in modelling a structure is the occurrence of a local or global

mechanism caused by the introduction of too many releases into the model.
A local mechanism is specific to a joint in the structure and will occur when that joint
is not rigidly fixed to either a member or to a support in all of its global degrees of
freedom. (The global degrees of freedom for each joint in the structure simply refer
to the directions in which that joint can displace or rotate.) This will always be
trapped by the analysis and the joint number at which the mechanism was discovered
will be reported.
As an example, consider a joint in a grid frame that has two members framing into it
at right angles to each other. Both members can have torsional releases (Rx) without
the joint becoming unstable. However if one joint were released in Mx and the other
in My, then both these member releases correspond to the same global release as the
two members are at right angles. The joint would then be unstable and a mechanism
would be reported.
A global mechanism failure is one where part or all of the structure becomes unstable
and is liable to literally fall over. This will normally be reported by SuperSTRESS
during the analysis, but may also be indicated in less severe cases by excessive
displacements or an imbalance of loads and reactions. See ill conditioning .
Truss structures are especially prone to global mechanism failures, as all member /
joint connections are pinned. The only way to guarantee stability in a truss is to
triangulate every panel in the structure. This cannot be over-emphasised, especially
when considering a space truss.
Plane frames, grid frames and space frames are stable unless one of the following
applies:
A joint has no members connected to it. This will be reported as an isolated

joint during the early stages of the analysis.
All members at a joint are released in a particular global direction, and there is
no support in that global direction. This will result in a local mechanism
failure at that joint.
A sub-structure can move independently of the main structure resulting in a

global mechanism failure. See multiple structures.
The structure can move freely in a particular direction, again resulting in a

global mechanism failure.
When trying to determine the cause of a mechanism, always check the releases on the
reported joint first. When you are satisfied that the joint is restrained in all its global
degrees of freedom, you should then consider the stability of the structure as a whole.
2.8
Limits
2.8.1
Limits tables
Supports and members can be limited to providing a reaction or stiffness in certain

directions only. For example, a member can be limited to act only in compression, or
a support can be limited to providing a reaction only to a resultant downward force.
The following two topics outline the data requirements. Refer to Method of Analysis
for further details.
2.8.2
Support limits
Supports can be limited to provide a reaction in a specific direction only. For

example, a vertical support on a continuous beam can be modelled to provide a
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SuperSTRESS
reaction to a resultant downward force but not an upward force, thus allowing the
support to lift.
Only displacement restraints can be limited. Therefore, the following support
restraints can be applied to the given structure types:
Plane truss / frame
DX, DZ
Grillage / grid frame

Space truss / frame
DZ
DX, DY, DZ
Note that a structure using this feature requires an iterative solution and so will take
longer to analyse.
The limits for each restraint direction are defined as follows:
Negative
The support is free to move in the negative direction of the restraint

to which it is applied. For example a negative limit applied to the DZ
support restraint will allow a downward vertical movement but not an
upward vertical movement.
Positive
The support is free to move in the positive direction of the restraint to

which it is applied. For example a positive limit applied to the DZ
support restraint will allow free uplift but prevent downward
displacement.
None
The support provides a reaction in both directions of the restraint.

This is the normal state of the restraint.
Note that all the joints that have been defined as supports will appear in the Support
Limits table. It is not possible to delete supports from this table except by deleting
them from the Supports table.
2.8.3
Member limits
Members can be limited to act in only tension or compression. This can be used to
model such things as tension-only bracing. Any member in the structure can be
specified as being either tension-only or compression-only.
Tension - only
The member cannot take compressive forces. It has either a

tensile or zero force.
Compression - only
The member cannot take tensile forces. It has either a

compressive or zero force.
Note that loads on tension-only members should be avoided, because the loading may
cause the axial forces at the two ends of a member to be different. In some
circumstances, this can result in the analysis not converging. Loads such as selfweight can be replaced by loads at joints. Loads such as temperature loads can cause
more difficulty and you may wish to consider replacing the tension-only member with
an ordinary member subject to a pre-strain (load type Member Strain). The member
will not then act in a non-linear way when loaded.
Note that a structure using this feature requires an iterative solution and so will take
longer to analyse.
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Note also that this table is not available when modelling a grid frame, as in this
structure type there is never an axial component of force.
2.9
Loads
2.9.1
Load definitions
2.9.1.1
Loadcases
Any number of loadcases can be analysed. Each one can be given a title, and each
will have a complete set of results that can be printed and displayed graphically.
There are three types of loadcase.
2.9.1.2
Loadcase titles
Basic
Each entry in a basic loadcase consists of an individual load

applied to either a joint or a member such as a point load or a
distributed load. There are a number of possible load types, all of
which are outlined in the following topics.
Pattern
Each entry in a pattern loadcase references a previously defined

basic loadcase. Only the basic load entries that relate to the listed
joints and members will be included in the pattern. Each entry in
the pattern can be factored.
Combination
Each entry in a combination loadcase references a previously

defined basic, pattern or combination loadcase. As with a pattern
loadcase, each entry can be factored.
Each type of loadcase has its own table of loadcases. Each loadcase is identified
throughout SuperSTRESS both by its title and its reference.
Undefined entries in the loadcase tables do not affect the solution time as they are
renumbered internally to remove the gaps.
The title is entered when changing an existing loadcase or when adding a new one.
The maximum length is 40 characters.
The reference is derived from the loadcase type and the entry number in the relevant
loadcase table. The entry number is appended to the first character of the type.
Therefore, Basic loadcase number 5 is referred to as B5, Pattern number 10 as P10
and Combination number 2 as C2.
2.9.1.3
Load type
There are twelve load types divided into joint, member and area loads. These are
described in the following topics.
Joint
concentrated
a force or moment applied to a joint
displacement
a displacement (linear or rotational) applied to a joint
concentrated
a point force or moment applied to a member
full
a uniformly distributed load over the full length of a
Member
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point distortion
member
the member's self weight acting as a uniformly
distributed load
a uniformly distributed load over part of the length of
a member
a linearly varying load over part of the length of a
member
a distortion at a point along the member's length
full distortion
a distortion over the member's full length
temperature
a load induced by a temperature increase or decrease,

along or across the member
an axial strain affecting the full member's length (also
known as a length coefficient)
self weight
uniform
linear
strain
Area
uniform
2.9.1.4
Load action
a constant uniformly distributed load over the full load

area
This defines the action of the load and its direction. It consists of a pair of characters.
The first character is one of the following:
Linear Force
Moment
Displacement or distortion
Rotation
F
M
D
R
The second character specifies the axis in or about which the load acts and will be X,
Y or Z (upper case) for global axes, or x, y or z (lower case) for member axes. The
axis system is not solely defined by the Load Action; for joint loads it is always the
global axes, for member loads (where it is relevant) it is also determined by the Load
Axes parameter.
For example, FX represents a force in the direction of the global X-axis; Mz
represents a moment about the member z-axis.
2.9.1.5
Load axes
This defines the axis system to which the Load Action relates.
Member axes
Global structure axes
Projected axes
M
G
P
The following applies to the Load Type, the Load Action and the Axes parameters:
Both types of Joint Load, concentrated and displacement always act in the
global axes. This parameter is not requested for such loads.
Loads specified as Global or Projected act parallel to and in the direction of,
the specified global axis. A negative load value will reverse the direction of
the load.
For a global distributed load, the total applied load is the product of the
average intensity and the loaded length or area.
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For a projected distributed load, the total applied load is the product of the
average intensity and the loaded length or area as projected normal to the
specified global axis.
The diagrams in the following topics show how Member, Global and Projected loads
are applied.
2.9.2
Joint loads
2.9.2.1
Joint concentrated
loads
Joint No.
Joint to which load is applied.
Load action
Force or Moment plus direction (for example FY, MX).
Value of point load. Joint concentrated loads act parallel to or about

the global axes. A force is positive in the positive global axes
direction. A moment is positive if clockwise about the global axis
looking in the positive axis direction.
An inclined load should be resolved into horizontal and vertical components. If the
inclined load is parallel or normal to one of the members meeting at the joint then it
can be applied directly as a Member Load (MC) a zero distance along that member
from either end.
It is permissible to apply joint concentrated loads against supported joints. Applying
loads against rigid supports will affect only the reaction at that support.
Joint concentrated loads may be entered for all structure types.
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2.9.2.2
Joint displacement
loads
Joint No.
Joint to which displacement applies.
Load action Displacement or rotation plus direction (e.g. DX, RZ).

D
Value of displacement or rotation. Joint displacements and rotations

act parallel to or about the global axes. A displacement is positive in
the positive global axis direction. A rotation is positive if clockwise
about the global axis looking in the positive axis direction.
Joint displacement loads can only be applied to supported joints and then only in the
direction of a fixed restraint.
Only supported joints can be displaced. Furthermore there cannot be a displacement
specified in the direction of any total release at that support.
Joint displacements are useful for investigating the effects of settlement of
foundations.
Joint displacement loads may be entered for all structure types.
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2.9.3
Member loads
2.9.3.1
Member
concentrated load
Member no.
Member to which load is being applied.
Load action
Force or Moment plus direction (e.g. MZ).
Axes
Member or Global. Defaults to the previous entry (or to Global if it

is the first entry).
Value of concentrated load.
Distance from End1 of member.
Member Concentrated loads comprise forces (Fx, Fy, Fz, FX, FY, FZ) or moments
(Mx, My, Mz, MX, MY, MZ) acting parallel to or about the member or global axes.
A moment is positive if clockwise about the relevant axis, looking in the positive axis
direction.
Member concentrated loads may only be entered for plane frames, grid frames and
space frames.
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2.9.3.2
Member full load
Member no. Member to which load is being applied.

Load action Force or Moment plus direction (e.g. FY).
Axes
Member, Global or Projected. Defaults to the previous entry (or to

Global if it is the first entry).
Load intensity.
Member Full loads comprise forces (Fx, Fy, Fz, FX, FY, FZ) or moments (Mx, My,
Mz, MX, MY, MZ) acting parallel to or about the member or global axes. A moment
is positive if clockwise about the relevant axis, looking in the positive axis direction.
The specified load intensity is applied to the full length of the member regardless of
its length. This means that the load entry need not be adjusted if altering the structure
geometry subsequently changes the member length.
Member full loads may only be entered for plane frames, grid frames and space
frames.
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2.9.3.3
Member self weight

load
Member no.
Load action
Force plus direction (e.g. FY). The load acts parallel to and in the
opposite direction to the specified global axis.
Multiplication factor.
In a plane frame the self-weight can act in either the X or Z global axes; the default is
Z.
In a grid frame, all loads are normal to the structure, so the self-weight acts in the
global Z axis.
In a space frame self-weights can act in the X, Y or Z global axes; the default is Z.
The self weight acts in the opposite direction to the specified axis.
The factor is a multiplier to allow for the additional weight of any material (such as
cladding) not accounted for by the cross sectional area of the member. The density
must be defined in the Material Type table for those members to which the load is
applied. The self-weight is calculated as a uniformly distributed load of intensity
multiplication factor x density x Ax.
Member self-weight loads may only be entered for plane frames, grid frames and
space frames.
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2.9.3.4
Member uniform
load
Member no.
Load action
Force or Moment plus direction (e.g. FY).
Axes

Load intensity.
La, Lb
Distances from End1 of start and finish of load. La defaults to zero,

the start of the member. Lb defaults to the length of the member in
tables but to zero in graphics where the member to which the load is
to be applied is not yet known.
Member Uniform loads comprise forces (Fx, Fy, Fz, FX, FY, FZ) or moments (Mx,
My, Mz, MX, MY, MZ) acting parallel to or about the member or global axes. A
moment is positive if clockwise about the relevant axis, looking in the positive axis
direction.
If a uniform load is to be applied to the full length of the member regardless of
member length then use load type MF.
Member uniform loads may only be entered for plane frames, grid frames and space
frames.
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2.9.3.5
Member linear load
Member no.
Load action
Force or Moment plus direction (e.g. MZ).
Axes

Wa, Wb
Intensities at start and finish of load.
La, Lb
Distances from End1 of start and finish of load. La defaults to

zero, the start of the member. Lb defaults to the length of the
member in tables but to zero in graphics where the member to
which the load is to be applied is not yet known.
Member Linear loads comprise forces (Fx, Fy, Fz, FX, FY, FZ) or moments (Mx, My,
Mz, MX, MY, MZ) acting parallel to or about the member or global axes. A moment
is positive if clockwise about the relevant axis, looking in the positive axis direction.
Member linear loads may only be entered for plane frames, grid frames and space
frames.
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2.9.3.6
Member point
distortion load
Member no.
Member to which the point distortion is being applied.
Load action
Distortion or Rotation plus direction (e.g. Rz).
Value of distortion or rotation. Member point distortions act parallel

to or about the member axes. The effect is as if the member were cut
at the point of application, the action applied to the end of the
member attached to End1, and then the member joined together
again. A distortion or rotation is positive if the end of the member
attached to End1 moves in a positive member axis direction.
Because the theory depends on small angles (theta = tan (theta))
there is a limit of 5 degrees on the member distortion.
Distance from End1 of member.
Member point distortions can be used for generating influence lines by imposing a
discontinuity in a member at a point.
If a unit linear distortion Dz is applied at the point in the member then the
resulting displacement plot will represent the shear force influence line.
If a unit rotational distortion Ry is applied then the resulting displacement plot
will represent the bending moment influence line.
Similarly, if a unit twisting distortion Rx is applied then the influence line for
torque will be produced
Influence lines and surfaces may also be created automatically using the Tools /
Influence Surface facility.
Member point distortion loads may only be entered for subframes, plane frames, grid
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2.9.3.7
Member full
distortion load
Member no.
Member to which distortion is being applied.
Load action
Distortion or Rotation plus direction (e.g. Rz).
Value of distortion or rotation. Member distortions act parallel to or

about the member axes. The effect of the distortion takes place over
the full length of the member and is measured by the relative action
on End2 compared to End1. A distortion or rotation is positive if
End2 of the restrained member tries to move in a positive direction
relative to End1. For rotational distortions Rz and Ry, the angle is
measured between the tangents to the member at End2 and End1.
there is a limit of 5 degrees on the member distortion.
This Load type is useful for solving lack-of-fit problems. For example, a member that
is too long to fit properly or is bowed before fixing.
Member distortion loads may only be entered for subframes, plane frames, grid
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2.9.3.8
Member
temperature load
Member no.
Member to which temperature load is being applied.
Load action
Dx, Dy or Dz.
Temp. rise
For load action Dx, this is the increase in temperature of the whole
member. Enter a negative value if the temperature decreases. The
temperature change affects the length of the member in the member
x direction (along the member). The unrestrained extension of a
member of length l, coefficient of thermal expansion c, undergoing
a rise in temperature t, is the product lct. The coefficient has units
of 'per degree'.
For load actions Dy and Dz, this is the increase in temperature
between the outermost fibre in the top flange and the bottom flange.
'Top' means in the positive y or z direction. A positive increase is
when the temperature in the top increases relative to that at the
bottom. The effect of this load depends on the depth of the member.
The depth is obtained from the Sections table. If no depth has been
defined in the Sections table, this load will have no effect.
there is a limit of 5 degrees on the member distortion caused by the
applied temperature load.
The maximum temperature rise is 5000 degrees Celsius.
The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) must be defined in the Material Type
table for those members to which this load is applied.
Member temperature loads may not be entered for plane trusses and space trusses.
For grillages, load action Dx is not allowed. For plane frames and subframes, load
action Dy is not allowed.
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2.9.3.9
Member strain load
Member no.
Member to which the strain is being applied.
Strain
Dimensionless axial strain.
The strain is defined as the increase in length per unit length of the member. A
negative strain signifies a shortening of the member.
Member strain loads may only be entered for plane frames and space frames.
2.9.4
Area loads
2.9.4.1
Load areas
SuperSTRESS load areas are created so that you may later define area loads as basic
loadcase entries to apply to them. They enable you to control how the area load is
applied to the structure.
Load areas are user defined regions containing panels of members. Members within a
panel must lie in the same plane, but panels within a load area do not have to lie in the
same plane. . Each panel is bounded by a ring of members. Area loads will only be
distributed to rings of members and not to members forming incomplete rings.
To define a load area, you must define a number of members that form complete rings
so that SuperSTRESS can recognise valid panels. Members that do not form part of
complete rings are ignored. Cantilevers, whether internal or external are always
ignored.
The load area may be defined as one-way or multi-way. In one-way load areas, load
is distributed in a single direction relative to one of the global axes. In multi-way load
areas, load is uniformly distributed in all directions. The span direction is an attribute
of the load area and not of the area loads that may be applied to it.
For the global XY plane, or planes parallel to it, the span direction is measured
relative to the global X axis, positive anticlockwise looking in the negative Z
direction. For all other planes, the span direction is measured relative to the
intersection line of the plane with the global XY plane.
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You may define the members either by entering a list of them in the load areas table,
or graphically.
When defined, load areas may be displayed in graphics as colour shaded panels. The
tool-tip query may be used to identify the load areas. Simply hover the cursor over
the load areas and a pop-up window will appear giving information on them.
The following diagrams show examples of the rules that govern the creation of load
areas.
1. Incomplete rings of members are ignored.
2. Panels with members not in the same plane are ignored.
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3. Panels with crossing members are ignored.
4. Horizontal base areas under pitched areas are ignored.
5. Panels with limited members are ignored.
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6. Panels with coincident members are ignored.
2.9.4.2
Area uniform loads
Area loads are a load type just as joint loads and member loads. They are applied to
load areas previously specified and are converted by SuperSTRESS into member or
joint loads, according to the structure type. For space trusses, joint loads are
generated. For grid frames and space frames, member loads are generated. This load
type is not available for plane trusses, plane frames and subframes, since they do not
allow loading out of the plane of the structure.
In the current release of SuperSTRESS, only one area load type is available 'Uniform', being a constant uniformly distributed load covering the whole of the load
area.
Load area
The name of the load area to which load is being applied.
Load type
This is always 'Uniform'.
Axes

See below for details of the affect the different axes have for area
loading
Action
This must be either FX, FY or FZ for space trusses and space

frames, or FZ for grid frames. The default is FZ.
The intensity of the applied uniform loading. The default is zero.

Positive loads act in the positive direction of the specified global
axes. Therefore loading applied to horizontal slabs is normally
negative.
With all types of load axes, Normal, Global and Projected, the load for each panel is
dispersed in its own plane, not the global plane. The diagrams below show how the
load is applied.
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Projected load axes
Global load axes
Normal load axes
2.9.4.3
Area load
translation
The distribution of area loads onto the members contained within the loaded area
takes place in two stages.
Firstly, the load area is split up into individual rings of members. These rings must be
complete so that the area contained is fully enclosed, and the members must not cross
each other.
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Secondly, these rings are split into triangles of as regular a shape as possible.
Thirdly, the uniform load on each triangle is translated into a number of discrete point
loads.
The creation of point loads is carried out as follows:
1.
2.
3.
Taking each triangle in turn, each side is subdivided into the same number of
equally spaced intervals. This spacing is determined from the 'Max load point
spacing for area loads' setting in the SuperSTRESS area loading options. The
actual spacing on each side is determined by dividing the longest side by this
setting and rounding up to the nearest integer. For example, if the length of
the longest side is 2.750mm and the spacing setting is 200 mm then the
number of intervals used is 2750 / 200 = 13.75, which is rounded up to 14.
The spacing of these intervals would then be 2750 / 14 = 196.43mm. The
spacing on the shorter sides will be less than this. These points are then used
to draw a number of smaller triangles inside the larger ones, as shown below.
In each large triangle there are n x n smaller, identical triangles, where n is the
number of intervals along any side of the larger triangles. n x n is the sum of
the arithmetic series 1, 3, 5 (2n-1).
The method for sharing the load between the vertices of the smaller triangles
is based on the mathematical theorem that the centre of gravity of any uniform
triangular lamina is the same as that of three equal particles placed at the
vertices of the triangle. Assuming that a uniform load of 3p is applied over
the surface of each of the smaller triangles, this can then be replaced by a
point load of p at each of the its nodes. For the larger triangle the loads in its
smaller triangles can be summed at each node to produce loads of p at each
vertex, 3p at each edge node (excluding the vertices) and 6p at each internal
node
Given that there are n x n smaller triangles in each of the larger triangles then
p can be evaluated from:
3p x n x n = A x w
where A is the area of the large triangle and w is the area load intensity
that is,
p = A x w / (3 x n x n)
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4.
5.
2.9.4.4
Area load
dispersion
The total number of nodes, m, in each of the larger triangles is calculated from
the formula:
m = (n+1) x (n+2) / 2
which is the sum of the arithmetic series 1, 2, 3 (n+1)
The co-ordinates of the vertices of all the smaller triangles are now calculated
and using the value of p calculated above, m point loads are created and
factored by either 1, 3 or 6 in accordance with 4 above. When taken together
these loads are statically equivalent to the area load over the large triangle.
Following the translation of the area load acting on each member ring into discrete
point loads, these point loads are then distributed to the members of the ring. The
method for doing this is known as dispersion and was invented by Integer for HLOAD in 1992. It produces member (or joint) loading that is statically equivalent to
the applied loading, and has proved to give good distributions under a wide variety of
geometries.
A full description of the dispersion method is given in H-LOAD dispersal method.
For the SuperSTRESS implementation, the following generation parameters are
fixed internally.
For one-way spanning areas
member width tolerance is set to 1mm
dispersion direction angle is set to the angle specified in the load areas table
maximum angular increment is set to zero
left dispersal offset is set to zero
right dispersal offset is set to zero
nodelet tolerance is set to 1mm
corner tolerance is set to 1mm

For multi-way spanning areas
member width tolerance is set to 1mm
dispersion direction angle is set to 90 degrees
maximum angular increment is set to 10 degrees
left dispersal offset is set to 90 degrees
right dispersal offset is set to 90 degrees
nodelet tolerance is set to 1mm
corner tolerance is set to 1mm

No torques are produced by SuperSTRESS area loads; these are assumed to be taken
out within the slab or other spanning surface.
Following analysis, the values of area load applied and assigned to the structures are
listed in the equilibrium check. When some area load cannot be applied (for instance
because the load direction is parallel with the plane of the load area) there will be a
difference between the applied and assigned loads. This is reported as unassigned
load.
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3.
Views
3.1
Explorer view
VIEWS
The Explorer can be used as the main vehicle for navigation around SuperSTRESS. It
gives access to Dialog boxes, Data tables, Results tables, Reports and Saved Views.
Dialog boxes enable input of data which is not in a table format. Nonetheless, dialog
boxes are treated in the same way as tables in the Explorer, except that they have a
different icon.
Double clicking on either the Sections branch or one of the section types will open up
the Sections dialog box, the difference being that in the latter case, the section type
will be highlighted as the current section.
As above, tables have a different icon to dialog boxes, and access to the table is
achieved by simply picking on the table branch.
Tables have the same expanded and compressed modes on the tree as dialog boxes,
see below.
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VIEWS
If you define and build influence surfaces, these will appear in the Explorer following
the loads.
Temporary basic loads created during building the surfaces will be appended to any
existing basic loads and then deleted on completion (unless you specifically request
that they aren't by removing the tick from 'Delete surface loadcases after use' in the
Define Surfaces dialog box).
When analysed, the various results tables accessible are also shown on the tree.
Again, simply double click on the results table to display it.
Next, any reports you have set up are displayed. Double click on the report you want
to view it.
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VIEWS
Finally, any views you have set up are displayed at the bottom of the tree.
Double click on the view to change the Graphics window to that view.
A complete Explorer view, with results, reports, influence surfaces and views follows.
In addition, the Explorer is expanded to include branches for Wood-Armer,

LOAD, AutoLoader, SuperSTEEL and SuperCONCRETE.
H-
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3.2
Graphics view
VIEWS
In SuperSTRESS, the graphics view is a diagram of the structure, with features such
as loads and supports, and with annotation if required.
For a detailed description of the Graphics facilities, please see the Graphics Section.
3.3
Tables view
Unlike Graphics, the Tables view features a wide variety of different windows. These
are represented by dialog windows and spreadsheet style windows.
There are two main types: input tables and results.
For a detailed description of the Tables facilities, see the Tables Section.
3.4
Toolbars
SuperSTRESS has a full implementation of all the facilities on the toolbars. For
information on the facilities provided, see SuperSUITE toolbars.
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4.
Graphics
4.1
Graphics
properties
GRAPHICS
SuperSTRESS graphical properties are always available.

The graphical properties in SuperSTRESS are divided into nine areas, in two groups,
Input and Output.
Input
Data
covering what elements of the structure and its properties are shown.
Input labels
covering identification of the joints, members, sections and loads.
Load areas
covering what load areas are displayed
Loadcases
covering what loadcases the results are to be displayed for.
Surfaces
covering which influence surfaces are to be displayed.
Input scales
covering the scales used for the structure and loads.
Output
Results
covering what results are displayed.
Output labels covering labelling of moments, shears, reactions and deflections.

Output scales covering the scales used for the results and influence surfaces.
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4.2
GRAPHICS
Input data graphics

properties
The graphical elements that may be plotted are shown above.

To plot a feature, tick the check box next to the feature by picking on it. Features
may be deselected by picking the box again (the tick will disappear).
Each feature (except global axes) has, displayed to its right, a structure set associated
with it. Pick the set name or the down arrow next to it and a selection list showing all
existing structure sets will appear, allowing you to select an alternative set.
Section outlines are drawn part-way along the member to avoid other annotation. The
sections are not drawn to scale, but do show the correct cross section type and
orientation of the member, taking into account any member rotation. The relevant
section is drawn for I, circular, square, rectangular, channel, angle, tee, H and octagon
sections. For general, haunch and concrete sections, a special shape is shown, as
below.
Member, point and uniformly distributed loads are plotted acting towards the member
to which they are applied. If the sign of the load is reversed, then the load is drawn on
the opposite side of the member, but still acting towards the member. Moment loads
are plotted showing their correct sense, ie clockwise or anticlockwise.
Note that the 'structure' structure set overrides all others, so that if you ask for features
on joints or members not in that list, they will not be plotted.
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4.3
GRAPHICS
Input label
graphics properties
Each label feature has, displayed to its right, a structure set associated with it. Pick
the set name or the down arrow next to it and a selection list showing all existing
structure sets will appear, allowing you to select an alternative set.
Input labels for joint, member and section numbers are only drawn if the joint or
member is in the current structure set and in the structure set selected for the label.
The Key option, when picked, displays a key on the Graphical Model that helps
identify different loadcases on the model and also states the scale at which the model
is shown. It also enables you to give the view a title for printing. This title is input in
the Page Setup option.
4.4
Load area graphics

properties
The Graphics / Properties / Load areas displays a selection list of existing load areas
for display. If you wish to change the selected load areas pick on the load areas entry .
This field is a toggle field and each time you pick it, it changes from selected
(highlighted) to deselected. The 'Select All' and 'Deselect All' buttons provide
shortcut selection methods, as well as use of the shift key to select all entries between
selected entries, and the control key to select individual entries without deselecting
others.
At the top of the load areas list is a drop down selection list titled 'Load Area Sets'.
This contains a list of all stored load area sets, the Current load area set and All load
areas. Pick the load area set name you require and the load areas comprising that set
will become highlighted. You may edit these individually as described above. To
store a load area set, select those load areas you wish to be included, then pick the
'Load Area Sets' button and proceed as follows:
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4.5
Loadcase graphics
properties
GRAPHICS
Save
The current load area selection will be saved with the name of your
choice. A table of currently saved load area sets is displayed. You
can overwrite an existing load area set by highlighting the entry in the
table before picking Save.
Recall
Pick one of the saved load area sets and select Recall. You will be
presented with three options:
Overwrite
The current load area set will be replaced by the saved set.
Add
The saved load area set will be added to the current set. If a load area
occurs in both sets it will appear only once in the resultant set.
Remove
The saved load area set will be removed from the current set. Only
load areas that occur in both sets will be removed. If a load area in
the saved set does not occur in the current set, it will not appear in the
resultant set.
Delete
A previously saved load area set can be deleted from the list of load
area sets. Pick the set to be deleted and pick the 'Delete' button. You
will be asked to confirm before the deletion takes place.
Rename
Simply pick the load area set you wish to rename and then enter the
new name.
The Graphics / Properties / Loadcases option displays a selection list of existing

loadcases for display. If you wish to change the selected loadcases pick on the
loadcase entry. This field is a toggle field and each time you pick it, it changes from
selected (highlighted) to deselected. The 'Select All' and 'Deselect All' buttons
provide shortcut selection methods, as well as use of the shift key to select all entries
between selected entries, and the control key to select individual entries without
deselecting others.
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An icon to the left of each loadcase shows the analysis status as identified in a key at
the bottom right of the dialog box. A solid green circle indicates a loadcase that has
been analysed. A solid red circle indicates a loadcase that has not been analysed.
Only structures with a large displacement analysis setting or with member limits or
support limits can have combination loadcases individually selected for analysis
where the referenced basic loadcases are not also selected. See Analysis loadcases.
Obviously, graphics of results will only be displayed for loadcases that are selected
and have been analysed.
At the top of the loadcase list is a drop down selection list titled 'Loadcase Set'. This
contains a list of all stored loadcase sets, the Current loadcase set and All loadcases.
Pick the loadcase set name you require and the loadcases comprising that set will
become highlighted. You may edit these individually as described above. To store a
loadcase set, select those loadcases you wish to be included, then pick the 'Loadcase
Sets' button and proceed as follows:
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The loadcase set facility provides two main benefits. Firstly the saved sets can be
recalled, so saving time that would otherwise be needed to re-specify the selection.
Secondly, the loadcase set names are substituted for the string of loadcase references
normally displayed in table headers and on graphical output. Four buttons provide
control:
4.6
Surfaces graphics
properties
Save
The current loadcase selection will be saved with the name of your
choice. A table of currently saved loadcase sets is displayed. You
can overwrite an existing loadcase set or pick the next blank entry in
the table and enter a name.
Recall
Pick one of the saved loadcase sets and select Recall. You will be
presented with three options:
Overwrite
The current loadcase set will be replaced by the saved set.
Add
The saved loadcase set will be added to the current set. If a loadcase
occurs in both sets it will appear only once in the resultant set.
Remove
The saved loadcase set will be removed from the current set. Only
loadcases that occur in both sets will be removed. If a loadcase in the
saved set does not occur in the current set, it will not appear in the
resultant set.
Delete
A previously saved loadcase set can be deleted from the list of

loadcase sets. Pick the set to be deleted and pick the 'Delete' button.
You will be asked to confirm before the deletion takes place.
Rename
Simply pick the loadcase set you wish to rename and then enter the
new name.
During graphical display, the Properties dialog box is extended to cover Surfaces to
enable you to select those surfaces you wish to view. Having selected which surfaces
to view, they are then switched on by ticking 'Influence Surfaces' under the Results
option.
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4.7
GRAPHICS
Input scales
graphics properties
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All of the input scaling parameters are controlled from this option. You have access
not only to the structure scale, but also the scales for the various types of loading.
The structure scale is displayed in the form of an engineering scale, such as 1:50 or
1:100. All other scales are given in the form 1mm = X, i.e. 1 millimetre on the
screen represents X units of the scaled item. The units for each scaled variable may
be changed by picking on the units field to the right of each item. A drop down
selection list will open, enabling you to select one of the units options. The structure
scale is automatically calculated from the current graphical view. This will almost
certainly not be a whole number, however you can edit this value to the nearest
suitable scale if you wish.
In the load scales, a choice is available of how the scaling is applied at the next
redraw. See Auto Redraw under Graphics Options for details of when the redraw
takes place.
The options are chosen using a 'Tri-state' tick box; i.e. the tick box has three different
states relating to the following scaling option.
State 1- Unticked
Use current
scale
The scales set in the scale

fields will be used to
redraw graphical views at
the next redraw.
State 2- Ticked, dimmed
Rescale next
redraw
SuperSTRESS will
automatically choose scales
so that the plotted attributes
fit sensibly onto the current
view. These are used at the
next redraw, following
which the calculated scales
are inserted into the scale
fields and the scaling option
is changed to 'Use current
scale' - see above.
State 3- Ticked, undimmed
Rescale always The scale is automatically

recalculated on each redraw
of the view.
You may toggle between these states by picking on the tick box.
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4.8
GRAPHICS
Results graphics
properties
This enables you to control the display of the following features.

Plane trusses
Space trusses
Plane frames Grid frames

& Sub frames
Space frames
Forces Fx
Reactions FX
Reactions FZ
Deflections
Forces Fx
Reactions FX
Reactions FY
Reactions FZ
Deflections
Moments My
Forces Fx
Shears Fz
Reactions FX
Reactions FZ
Reactions MY
Deflections
Torques Mx
Moments My
Moments Mz
Forces Fx
Shears Fy
Shears Fz
Reactions FX
Reactions FY
Reactions FZ
Reactions MX
Reactions MY
Reactions MZ
Deflections
Torques Mx
Moments My
Shears Fz
Reactions FZ
Reactions MX
Reactions MY
Deflections
To plot a feature pick the check box next to it and a tick will appear to show that it
has been selected. Features may be deselected by picking the box again (the tick will
disappear).
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Each feature has, displayed to its right, a structure set associated with it. Pick the set
name or the down arrow next to it and a selection list showing all existing structure
sets will appear, allowing you to select an alternative set.
Below the features is 'Envelope' with a check box. If this is ticked then an envelope
will be drawn of the currently selected loadcases for each ticked feature. If it is not
ticked then the currently selected loadcases are drawn individually. A colour key at
the bottom of the screen indicates which loadcase is which.
Note that the deflections are never drawn as an envelope, because the displaced shape
of the structure includes the global joint displacements as well as the local member
displacements so that the displaced shapes are not co-planar.
If results annotation is requested for deflections (see Graphics Options ) then the
values shown will relate to the vector global displacements for the individual selected
loadcase(s) and not to the envelope of deflections. If you want to see displacements
related to member axes, use the Maximum Span Forces , Member Force Diagrams
or Detailed Span Values facilities.
4.9
Output labels
graphical
properties
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Each label feature has, displayed to its right, a structure set associated with it. Pick
the set name or the down arrow next to it and a selection list showing all existing
structure sets will appear, allowing you to select an alternative set.
Results labels will only be drawn if the corresponding result is drawn - see Results
Graphics.
Results labels always take the colour of the corresponding loadcase. The colour of
other labels may be controlled in Graphics Pen Options so that you can easily
distinguish between them.
4.10
Output scales
graphical
properties
This option allows you to set scales for the results (deflections, moments and forces)
and influence surfaces.
Note: The influence surface values are calculated and stored in internal units that are
always consistent. It is your responsibility to ensure that the units are appropriate to
the loading to be applied. For instance, if you are going to apply loads expressed in
kN, then you should ensure that the influence line values for moment for example, are
expressed in kNm/kN, and NOT kNm/N.
In both Results and Influence surfaces, a choice is available of how the scaling is
applied at the next redraw. See Auto Redraw under Graphics Options for details of
when the redraw takes place.
The options are chosen using a 'Tri-state' tick box; i.e. the tick box has three different
states relating to the following scaling option.
State 1- Unticked
Use current scale
The scales set in the scale

fields will be used to
redraw graphical views at
the next redraw.
State 2- Ticked, dimmed
Rescale next redraw SuperSTRESS will

automatically choose scales
so that the plotted attributes
fit sensibly onto the current
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view. These are used at the
next redraw, following
which the calculated scales
are inserted into the scale
fields and the scaling option
is changed to 'Use current
scale' - see above.
State 3- Ticked, undimmed
Rescale always
The scale is automatically

recalculated on each redraw
of the view.
You may toggle between these states by picking on the tick box.
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5.
Drawing
5.1
Drawing
interaction
DRAWING
The following topics describe how to change your structural model by various
drawing manipulations. You can start from a clean sheet and build the model as if
using graph paper, you can use the structure wizard to start with a basic model or add
to an existing one, and when you have something to work with, you can use the
extensive editing facilities provided to achieve exactly what you want.
Because there are so many things you can change, and so many ways of changing
them, the following topics are intricately cross-referenced to provide exactly the
information you need.
The item you wish to manipulate is chosen from the Drop down selection list on the
Drawing toolbar.
The next step is to select the operation you wish to perform:

The changes you can perform are:
Change Delete
|
|
|
Add
Move
|
|
Copy
Divide
|
|
Intersect
You cannot make all of the changes on all of the items; for instance, you cannot
divide a joint. In these cases the option is disabled and will appear dimmed in the
menu, and the button dimmed in the tool bar.
Note: If any of your structure is currently selected you are prompted to apply the
operations to either the current selection set or make a new selection of items to be
affected. If no items are currently selected you will be required to make a selection.
Also note that when adding or changing items the context menu allows you to change
the attributes of the new item.
If you make a mistake during any of these operations, simply pick the Undo button.
This gives you the freedom to try various techniques without fear of irreversibly
changing your data.
5.2
Drawing joints
5.2.1
Changing joints
This option enables you directly to modify the co-ordinates of joints. Pick the joint or
joints whose co-ordinates you wish to change. You may either change the Current set
or change joints individually.
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Change joints
in the current
set
DRAWING
The joints in the Current set will be changed as described below.
Pick joints to be A square pick window will appear in the current graphical
window. This may be used simply to pick individual joints to be
changed
changed - they will be changed as described below. Or the
window may be resized by holding down the left-hand mouse
button and dragging - the 'in window' and 'crossing window'
features will apply - see Selecting joints and members.
The behaviour is different, depending on whether a single joint or multiple joints are
picked by either method.
Single joint
Note that the three check boxes are dimmed and are inoperative. These boxes are
only relevant to multiple joint selection - see below. The fields for X, Y and Z may
be individually edited to the values required.
Multiple joints
The co-ordinates of the first joint found are entered in the co-ordinate fields. If the
co-ordinates of any of the other joints in the selected group are different to the first
joint, then the relevant ordinate field is dimmed. If all joints have the same ordinates
in any axis, then that field is not dimmed and may be edited. All joints will then have
that changed ordinate. The other ordinates will not be affected.
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Note that with multiple joints, the check boxes are not dimmed. If you pick one of
these boxes, it will be ticked and the relevant ordinate will no longer be dimmed if it
was previously dimmed. If you change that ordinate, then all selected joints will have
the changed ordinate regardless of what their original ordinates were. This is a very
powerful feature and should be used with care, although you can always use the undo
facility.
5.2.2
Adding joints
This option enables you to add joints to the model. The usual location methods are
available when defining the position of a new joint.
Crosshairs
Pick joint / split member
Crosshair
The new joint is positioned at the crosshair location, and snaps to the
background grid.
Pick
A joint can be positioned part way along a member. Pick the

member and then define the position of the new joint. The position
can be defined either as a proportion of the member length from
End1, or as a distance from End1.
Direct entry
Pick the co-ordinate tracking fields in the Point Co-ordinates pop-up

and enter the co-ordinates of the new joint directly. These coordinates do not have to lie on the background grid.
While entering joints, the properties (available from the right-hand mouse button
Context menu) are extended to include:
New joint
attributes
This enables you to specify the number of the next joint to be added.
Each time a joint is added, this number is incremented. If the entry
already belongs to an existing joint then the requested number is
automatically incremented until an undefined entry is found. It is not
generally necessary to set this value explicitly unless you want the
new joints to start at a specific number.
Merge joints If ticked the new joint will be merged with any existing joint found at
the same co-ordinates.
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5.2.3
DRAWING
Deleting joints
This option enables you to either delete joints from the Current set or delete joints
individually.
Delete joints from The joints in the current set will be deleted instantly. Any
members connected to those joints will also be deleted.
the current set
Pick joints to be
deleted
A square pick window will appear in the current graphical

window. This may be used simply to pick individual joints for
deletion - they will be deleted instantly. Or the window may be
resized by holding down the left-hand mouse button and dragging
- see 'Selecting joints and members'.
Delete isolated
joints
This will delete any joint to which members are not connected. It
is useful where members have been deleted and there may be
some unconnected joints remaining which would otherwise cause
an analysis failure. If picked, all isolated joints will be found and
deleted instantaneously.
The 'in window' and 'crossing window' features do not apply since the operation is
solely dependent on joints within the window. Any members connected to joints
within the window will be deleted automatically. Members which cross through the
window, but neither of whose joints are in the window will not be deleted, even if the
crossing window feature is in operation.
This operation is more powerful than the delete members action since it will delete
both joints and members. It can therefore be used to good effect in situations where
large areas of the structure are to be deleted. The delete members operation on the
other hand can be used with more precision, particularly in conjunction with the 'in
window' and 'crossing window' features.
The Undo facility may be used where joints are deleted inadvertently.
5.2.4
Copying joints
This option enables you to perform a repeated copy of the Current set of joints and
members. Note that this is the same operation whether selected via the joints or
members routes, and that both joints and members are copied. The transformation
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applied to the joint co-ordinates during the copy can be translational, rotational or
mirrored. Both translational and rotational copies can be repeated any number of
times. The offsets from the original are factored by the copy number to generate the
new co-ordinates. The original set of joints and members will not be moved. The
view is continuously updated during the positioning process as a visual check on the
new location.
The translate, rotate and mirror operations are covered in the following three topics.
While copying joints, the properties (available from the right-hand mouse button
New joint
attributes
automatically incremented until an undefined entry is found. It is not
generally necessary to set this value explicitly unless you want the
new joints to start at a specific number.
New member This enables you to specify a number of attributes to be applied to the
new members generated.
attributes
Member number
The number of the next member to be added. Each time a member is
added, this number is incremented. If the entry already belongs to an
existing member then the requested number is automatically
incremented until an undefined entry is found. It is not generally
necessary to set this value explicitly unless you want the new
members to start at a specific number.
Material
The material type of all new members to be added. A drop down list
of currently available materials is presented.
Section
The section type of all new members to be added. A drop down list
of currently available sections is presented.
Beta angle
The Beta angle of all new members to be added.
Merge joints The copying process will generate new joints. Tick this option to
merge the new joints with any existing joints that have the same coordinates.
Merge
members
The copying process will generate new members. Tick this option to
merge the new members with any existing members that connect the
same joints.
Merging joints and members during the copy will slow down the process, as the entire
structure is searched for duplications. As an alternative you can switch both these
options off and use the Tools / Merge joints and Merge members options after the
copy is complete.
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5.2.5
Translational joint
copy
DRAWING
After entering the number of copies, you must do the following:

Pick a point in space that will provide the reference point for the
Pick the
reference point copy. It does not need to be related in any way to the structure or
the Current structure set, but it is often convenient to use an
existing joint for this purpose. All of the usual methods of
selecting a point are available.
Reposition the Reposition the reference point by picking another point in space.
reference point The movement of the reference point provides the offsets in each
axis for the first copy. The offsets for each subsequent copy are
factored by the copy number. As the reference point is moved the
positions of all of the copies are continuously updated.
A prompt for which point is required is displayed in the Status Bar.
When the final reference point position has been picked, the new joints and members
are added to the model. Duplicate joints and members will be merged if the
appropriate options have been ticked. The view of the structure will be updated to
reflect the additions.
5.2.6
Rotational joint
copy
If you select a rotational copy, the Copy dialog box is extended as follows:
Rotation axis You must first define the orientation of the axis about which the
rotation is to be made. The following options are available :
X, Y or Z axis
Align the rotation axis about one of the current axes. The current
axis system can be either the global axis or a previously defined
local axis system
Two points
Pick two points. The rotation axis will be aligned with a line
between these two points. All the usual selection methods are
available.
Member
Pick a member. The rotation axis will be aligned with the member
x-axis.
Note that at this stage the position of the rotation axis is not defined,
only its direction.
Angle
definition
method
After you have aligned the rotation axis you must specify the
method by which you want to define the degree of rotation. The
following options are available :
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Specify angle
The rotation is specified directly in terms of the angle.
Specify two points
Two points are entered. The degree of rotation is derived from the
angle between these two points in the plane normal to the rotation
axis. All of the usual methods of picking points can be used.
After entering the number of copies, you need to specify the position of the rotation
axis.
The rotation axis must be positioned by picking a point. A graphical
Position
rotation axis representation of the alignment of the rotation axis will be
superimposed on the mouse cursor during this process.
The next actions depend on the angle definition method selected:
Specify angle A Specify angle dialog box will appear. Moving the mouse cursor
will update the rotation angle displayed in the prompt area. Click the
left mouse button when the angle is at the correct value. Set the angle
snap so that you can achieve a suitable level of sensitivity.
Alternatively pick the rotation angle field and enter the required value
directly. A positive angle is measured clockwise when looking along
the rotation axis from its origin.
Specify two
points
Pick the first point

Pick a point in space which will provide the first reference point for
the copy. It does not need to be related in any way to the structure or
the Current structure set, but it is often convenient to use an existing
joint for this purpose. All of the usual methods of selecting a point
are available
Pick the second point
In the same way, pick a point in space which will provide the second
reference point for the copy. The degree of rotation is derived from
the angle between the two points in the plane normal to the rotation
axis.
Prompts for which input is required are displayed in the Status Bar.
The new joints and members will then be added to the model. Duplicate joints and
members will be merged if the appropriate options have been ticked. The view of the
structure will be updated to reflect the additions.
5.2.7
Mirrored joint
copy
If you select a mirrored copy, the Copy dialog box is extended as follows:
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You will be asked to specify the plane in which the Set is to be mirrored. This must
be the YZ, XZ or XY plane of the current axis system.
Select mirror
plane
Select the mirror plane by picking the required radio button in the
dialog box. The plane relates to the current axis system. You can
mirror about a plane that is not aligned to the global axes by
defining a local axis system such that one of its planes is in the
required orientation. Make this local system the current axes and
the mirror will then be performed relative to the local axes rather
than the global axes.
It is not possible to do a multiple copy when using the mirror option, so this is not
presented. If you want a multiple mirror, then do a mirrored copy and then a multiple
translational copy.
You must finally pick and reposition the mirror reference point:
Pick the
Reposition the Move the reference point to its new position. The Current
reference point structure set will be mirrored about a plane centred half way
between the original reference point position and its new position.
A square box represents the location and orientation of the plane.
If you find that neither the mirror plane nor the structure set move when you move the
handle, it is probably because the axis normal to the mirror plane is the fixed axis. If
this is the case, fix either one of the other two axes and then proceed as before.
5.2.8
Moving joints
This option enables you to move the Current set of joints and members. Note that this
is the same operation whether selected via the joints or members routes, and that both
joints and members are moved. The transformation applied to the joint co-ordinates
during the move can be translational, rotational, mirrored or stretched. The view is
continuously updated during the positioning process as a visual check on the new
location. Note that the Current set is automatically extended for the move operation
so that all members attached to joints in the set are selected as well. This is because,
if a joint moves, then members attached to it must also move. If a member has only a
joint at one end in the set then that joint will move while the other end remains
stationary, thereby stretching the member. A special case exists where a member is in
the Current set, but neither of its joints are. This is clearly impossible, and both joints
will be automatically selected in this case.
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The translate, rotate, mirror and stretch operations are described in the following
four topics.
Build the Current set to be moved using any of the Selection methods described
earlier. When ready to proceed, select the Joints / Move or Members / Move options
from the main menu bar or Drawing tool bar buttons and choose a translational,
rotational, mirrored or stretched move.
While moving joints, the properties (available from the right-hand mouse button
Merge joints
The moving process will not generate new joints, but moved joints
may end up at the same location as an existing joint in the nonmoved structure. Tick this option to merge the moved joints with
any existing joints that have the same co-ordinates.
Merge
members
The moving process will not generate new members, but moved
members may end up at the same location as an existing member in
the non-moved structure. Tick this option to merge the new
members with any existing members that connect the same joints.
Merging joints and members during the move will slow down the process, as the
entire structure is searched for duplications. As an alternative you can switch both
these options off and use the Tools / Merge options after the move is complete.
5.2.9
SuperSTRESS
drawing translational joint
move
After selecting the Move / Translate option you will need to do the following:
Pick the
reference point
Pick a point in space which will provide the reference point for
the move. It does not need to be related in any way to the
structure or the Current structure set, but it is often convenient to
use an existing joint for this purpose. All of the usual methods of
Reposition the
reference point
Reposition the reference point by picking another point in space.

The movement of the reference point provides the offsets in each
axis. Every joint in the Current set will be moved by these
offsets. As the reference point is moved the position of the set is
continuously updated.

When the final reference point position has been picked, all the joints and members in
the Current set will be moved to their new location. Duplicate joints and members
will be merged if the appropriate options have been ticked.
5.2.10
Rotational joint
move
If you select a rotational move, the Move dialog box is extended as follows:
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X, Y or Z axis
local axis system.
Two points
available.
Member
x-axis.
only its direction.
Angle
definition
method
Specify angle
Specify two points
Position
rotation axis

representation of the alignment of the rotation axis will be
The degree of rotation must next be specified. The actions depend on the angle
definition method selected:
Specify two
points

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the move. It does not need to be related in any way to the structure or
are available.
reference point for the move. The degree of rotation is derived from
axis.
Joints and members will be merged if the appropriate options have been ticked.
5.2.11
Mirrored joint
move
If you select a mirrored move, the Move dialog box is extended as follows:
You must first specify the plane in which the Set is to be mirrored. This must be the
YZ, XZ or XY plane.
Select mirror
plane
Pick a point in space which will provide the reference point for the
Pick the
reference point move. It does not need to be related in any way to the structure or
If you want to mirror about a specific joint, then all you have to do is pick that joint
twice.
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5.2.12
Stretched joint
move
This option enables you to stretch a selected part of the structure. The direction of the
stretch is related to the current axes, which can be either the global axes or a
previously defined local axis system. This feature operates on the Current set, so you
should make sure that the set is correct before proceeding.
Position stretch The stretch origin provides the base position which will be used to
calculate the new location of the Current set. A set of two or
origin
three-dimensional crosshairs will be drawn at the origin position.
Pick a point to act as the reference point for the stretch. The
Pick the
reference point position of the reference point relative to the stretch origin will
determine the possible directions of the stretch.
Reposition the Move the reference point to its new position. As you do so the
reference point position of the Current set will be continuously updated as a visual
check on the operation.
When the handle has been repositioned the co-ordinates of the selected joints will be
updated.
The new co-ordinates are calculated as follows :
Xn = Xo + (X-Xo)(Xr1-Xo)
(Xr2-Xo)
where X is the original co-ordinate
Xn is the new X co-ordinate after the stretch
Xo is the X co-ordinate of the stretch origin
Xr1 is the X co-ordinate of the reference point before the stretch.
Xr2 is the X co-ordinate of the reference point after the stretch.
The new Y and Z co-ordinates are calculated in a similar fashion.
Two things should be noted regarding this calculation:
If the reference point has the same X co-ordinate as the stretch origin then
there will be no movement of any joint in the direction of the X-axis.
Any joint which shares the same X co-ordinate as the stretch origin will not be
moved (in the X direction).
Note that the stretch may be different in each axis direction. If you wish to achieve a
uniform stretch, then pick a reference point at 45 degrees to the relevant axes and
move the point in the same direction.
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5.3
Drawing supports
DRAWING
This option enables you to add and edit global joint supports graphically. The
supports will be displayed automatically when this option is entered even if the
supports option is not switched on in the Graphics properties / input.
Refer to Joint supports for details of the possible restraint conditions.
5.3.1
Changing supports
This option enables you directly to modify the fixities of supports. Pick the support
or supports whose fixities you wish to change.
Change supports The supported joints in the Current set will be changed as
in the Current set described below.
Pick supports to
be changed

window. This may be used simply to pick individual supports
to be changed - they will be changed as described below. Or
the window may be resized by holding down the left-hand
mouse button and dragging, the 'in window' and 'crossing
window' features will apply - see Selecting joints and members.
The behaviour is different, depending on whether a single support or multiple

supports are picked by either method.
Single support
Note that the six check boxes are dimmed and are inoperative. These boxes are only
relevant to multiple support selection - see below. The fields for DX, DY, DZ, RX,
RY and RZ may be individually edited to the values required. The possible support
types are rigid, free and spring. When a spring support is specified, a numeric value
must be entered into the adjacent field, which will become editable.
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Multiple supports
The fixities of the first support found are entered in the fixities fields. If the fixities of
any of the other supports in the selected group are different to the first support, then
the relevant fixity field is dimmed. If all supports have the same fixities in or about
any axis, then that field is not dimmed and may be edited. All supports will then have
that changed fixity. The other fixities will not be affected.
Note that with multiple supports, the check boxes are not dimmed. If you pick one of
these boxes, it will be ticked and the relevant fixity will no longer be dimmed. If you
change that fixity, then all supports will then have that changed fixity regardless of
what their original fixities were. This is a very powerful feature and should be used
with care, although you can always use the undo facility.
5.3.2
Adding supports
When adding supports the attributes of the support to be added will appear in a dialog
as shown below. The attributes may be changed at this point, or, if adding by picking
with the cursor, they may be changed at any time by picking New Support Attributes
from the right-hand mouse button Context menu.
The possible attributes are Rigid, Free and Spring. For details, see Joint supports.
This option enables you to either add supports to joints in the Current set or add
supports to joints individually.
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Add supports to The joints in the Current set will receive the current support
the Current set attributes instantly.
supported
supports to be added to - they will be added instantly. Or the
button and dragging, the 'in window' and 'crossing window'
5.3.3
Deleting supports
This option enables you to either delete supports from joints in the Current set or
delete supports from joints individually.
Delete supports The joints in the Current set will have their support attributes
deleted instantly.
from joints in
the Current set.
deleted.
supports to be deleted from - they will be deleted instantly. Or
the window may be resized by holding down the left-hand mouse
5.4
Drawing support
limits
Two types of limit are available in SuperSTRESS, support limits and member limits.
To enable these facilities, SuperSTRESS performs a non-linear analysis of the
structure through a series of repeated analyses. At each cycle, a member or support is
removed if it is found to be outside the limits previously set. Only the most critical
member or support is removed each time.
This option enables you to graphically edit the support limits. The support limits will
be displayed automatically when this option is entered even if the support limits
option is not switched on in Properties / Input.
Refer to Support limits for details of the possible limit conditions.
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5.4.1
Changing support
limits
DRAWING
This option enables you directly to modify the limits of supports. Pick the support or
supports whose limits you wish to change.
Change limits
in the Current
set
The limited supports in the Current set will be changed as

described below.
Pick limits to be A square pick window will appear in the current graphical
window. This may be used simply to pick individual limited
changed
supports to be changed - they will be changed as described below.
Or the window may be resized by holding down the left-hand
mouse button and dragging, the 'in window' and 'crossing window'
The behaviour is different, depending on whether a single limited support or multiple
limited supports are picked by either method.
Single limited support
Note that the three check boxes are dimmed and are inoperative. These boxes are
only relevant to multiple support selection - see below. The fields for DX, DY and
DZ may be individually edited to the values required. The possible limit types are
None, Positive and Negative
Multiple limited supports
The limits of the first support found are entered in the limits fields. If the limits of
any of the other supports in the selected group are different to the first support, then
the relevant limit field is dimmed. If all supports have the same limits in any axis,
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then that field is not dimmed and may be edited. All supports will then have that
changed limit. The other limits will not be affected.
Note that with multiple limited supports, the check boxes are not dimmed. If you pick
one of these boxes, it will be ticked and the relevant limit will no longer be dimmed.
If you change that limit, then all supports will then have that changed limit regardless
of what their original limits were. This is a very powerful feature and should be used
with care, although you can always use the undo facility.
5.4.2
Adding support
limits
When adding support limits the attributes of the support limits to be added will appear
in a dialog as shown below. The attributes may be changed at this point, or, if adding
by picking with the cursor, they may be changed at any time by picking New support
Limits Attributes from the right-hand mouse button Context menu.
The possible attributes are Positive, Negative and None. For details, see Support
limits.
This option enables you to either add limits to supports in the Current set or ad d limits
to supports individually.
Add limits to
the current set
The supported joints in the current set will receive the current
support limit attributes instantly.
Pick supports to A square pick window will appear in the current graphical
window. This may be used simply to pick individual supports for
be limited
limits to be added to - they will be added instantly. Or the
5.4.3
Deleting support
limits
This option enables you to either delete limits from supports in the Current set or
delete limits from supports individually.
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Delete limits from The limited supports in the Current set will have their limit
attributes deleted instantly.
supports in the
Current set.
Pick support
limits to be
deleted.
5.5
Drawing members
5.5.1
Changing
members

supports for limits to be deleted from - they will be deleted
instantly. Or the window may be resized by holding down the
left-hand mouse button and dragging, the 'in window' and
'crossing window' features will apply - see Selecting joints and
members.
This option enables you directly to modify the attributes of members. Pick the
member or members whose attributes you wish to change. You may either change the
Current set or change members individually.
Change
members in the
Current set
The members in the Current set will be changed as described

below.
Pick members to A square pick window will appear in the current graphical
window. This may be used simply to pick individual members to
be changed
be changed - they will be changed as described below. Or the
The behaviour is different, depending on whether a single member or multiple
members are picked by either method.
Single member
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Note that the five check boxes are dimmed and are inoperative. These boxes are only
relevant to multiple member selection - see below. The fields for End1, End2,
Material, Section and Beta angle may be individually edited to the values required.
Multiple members
The attributes of the first member found are entered in the relevant fields. If the
attributes of any of the other members in the selected group are different to the first
member, then the relevant attribute field is dimmed. If all members have the same
attributes in any field, then that field is not dimmed and may be edited. All members
will then have that changed attribute. The other attributes will not be affected.
Note that with multiple members, the check boxes are not dimmed. If you pick one of
these boxes, it will be ticked and the relevant attribute will no longer be dimmed. If
you change that attribute, then all members will then have that changed attribute
regardless of what their original attributes were. This is a very powerful feature and
should be used with care, although you can always use the undo facility.
This provides a quick way of regrouping members, for instance to change all the
diagonal bracing of a truss to a new Section type.
5.5.2
Adding members
This option enables you to add members to the model. The usual location methods
are available when defining the position of a new member end. This is the same as
adding joints, and joints are in fact added, the difference being that members are
added between each successive pair of joints.
Crosshairs
Crosshair
Pick joint / split member

The new joint at a member end is positioned at the crosshair
location, and snaps to the background grid.
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Pick joint
DRAWING
In pick mode, a new joint at a member end may be picked at an

existing joint position. This will connect the new member to any
existing members framing into that joint. If 'merge joints' is ticked
(see below) then the new joint will be merged with the existing
joint.
Pick member A new joint at a member end can be positioned part way along
another member. Pick the member and then define the position of
the new joint. The position can be defined either as a proportion of
the member length from End1, or as a distance from End1.
Direct entry
Pick the co-ordinate tracking fields in the Point Co-ordinates pop-up

and enter the co-ordinates of the new joint directly. These coordinates do not have to lie on the background grid.
While entering members, the properties (available from the right-hand mouse button
Cancel current If you realise that the current member is incorrect in some way,
you can abandon it and start again. SuperSTRESS will remain in
member
member adding mode and you can change the attributes and the
start position of the new member as you wish.
New joint
attributes
This enables you to specify the number of the next joint to be

added. Each time a joint is added, this number is incremented. If
the entry already belongs to an existing joint then the requested
number is automatically incremented until an undefined entry is
found. It is not generally necessary to set this value explicitly
unless you want the new joints to start at a specific number.
New member
attributes
This enables you to specify the attributes of a new member being

added. These attributes are:
Member number
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The number of the next member to be added. Each time a member

is added, this number is incremented. If the entry already belongs
to an existing member then the requested number is automatically
Material
The Material number of the next member to be added.
Section
The Section number of the next member to be added.
Beta angle
The Beta angle of the next member to be added.
5.5.3
Start from
previous end
If ticked then the next member will be automatically started from

the end of the previous member. This can be useful when adding a
string of members. If not ticked then End1 must be specifically
located each time a new member is added.
Merge joints
If ticked the new joint will be merged with any existing joint found
at the same co-ordinates.
Merge
members
If ticked then new members will be merged with existing members

that run between the same joints
Deleting members
This option enables you to either delete members from the Current set or delete
members individually.
Delete
members
from the
current set
The members in the current set will be deleted instantly. Any joints
connected to those members will not be deleted - this may result in
isolated joints not connected to any members.
See Deleting Joints for a quick way to remove isolated joints.
Pick
members to
be deleted
A square pick window will appear in the current graphical window.

This may be used simply to pick individual members for deletion they will be deleted instantly. Or the window may be resized by
holding down the left-hand mouse button and dragging; the 'in
window' and 'crossing window' features will apply - see 'Selecting
joints and members'.
This operation is more selective than the delete joints action since it
will delete only members. It can therefore be used to good effect,
particularly in conjunction with the 'in window' and 'crossing
window' features, in situations where members are to be removed
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with precision, without affecting the rest of the structure.
5.5.4
Copying members
This option enables you to perform a repeated copy of the Current set of joints and
members. Note that this is the same operation whether selected via the joints or
members routes, and that both joints and members are copied. The transformation
applied to the joint co-ordinates during the copy can be translational, rotational or
mirrored. Both translational and rotational copies can be repeated any number of
times. The offsets from the original are factored by the copy number to generate the
new co-ordinates. The original set of joints and members will not be moved. The
view is continuously updated during the positioning process as a visual check on the
new location.
The translate, rotate and mirror operations are covered in the following three topics.
While copying joints, the properties (available from the right-hand mouse button
New joint
attributes
automatically incremented until an undefined entry is found. It is
not generally necessary to set this value explicitly unless you want
the new joints to start at a specific number.
New member This enables you to specify a number of attributes to be applied to

the new members generated.
attributes
Member number
The number of the next member to be added. Each time a member
is added, this number is incremented. If the entry already belongs to
an existing member then the requested number is automatically
Material
The material type of all new members to be added. A drop down
list of currently available materials is presented.
Section
The section type of all new members to be added. A drop down list
of currently available sections is presented.
Beta angle
The Beta angle of all new members to be added.
Merge joints
The copying process will generate new joints. Tick this option to
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ordinates.
Merge
members
The copying process will generate new members. Tick this option
to merge the new members with any existing members that connect
the same joints.
Merging joints and members during the copy will slow down the process, as the entire
structure is searched for duplications. As an alternative you can switch both these
options off and use the Tools / Merge options after the copy is complete.
5.5.5
Translational
member copy
After entering the number of copies, you must do the following:

Pick the
axis for the first copy. The offsets for each subsequent copy are
factored by the copy number. As the reference point is moved the
positions of all of the copies are continuously updated.
When the final reference point position has been picked, the new joints and members
are added to the model. Duplicate joints and members will be merged if the
appropriate options have been ticked. The view of the structure will be updated to
reflect the additions.
5.5.6
Rotational
member copy
If you select a rotational copy, the Copy dialog box is extended as follows:
X, Y or Z axis
axis system can be either the global axis or a previously defined local
axis system
Two points
available.
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Member
Pick a member. The rotation axis will be aligned with the member xaxis.
only its direction.
Angle
definition
method
After you have aligned the rotation axis you must specify the method
by which you want to define the degree of rotation. The following
options are available :
Specify angle
Specify two points
After entering the number of copies, you need to specify the position of the rotation
axis.
Position
rotation axis representation of the alignment of the rotation axis will be
The next actions depend on the angle definition method selected:
Specify two
points

the copy. It does not need to be related in any way to the structure or
are available
reference point for the copy. The degree of rotation is derived from
axis.
The new joints and members will then be added to the model. Duplicate joints and
members will be merged if the appropriate options have been ticked. The view of the
structure will be updated to reflect the additions.
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5.5.7
Mirrored member
copy
DRAWING
If you select a mirrored copy, the Copy dialog box is extended as follows:
You will be asked to specify the plane in which the Set is to be mirrored. This must
be the YZ, XZ or XY plane of the current axis system.
Select mirror
plane
It is not possible to do a multiple copy when using the mirror option, so this is not
presented. If you want a multiple mirror, then do a mirrored copy and then a multiple
translational copy.
You must finally pick and reposition the mirror reference point:
Pick the
5.5.8
Moving members
This option enables you to move the Current set of joints and members. Note that this
is the same operation whether selected via the joints or members routes, and that both
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joints and members are moved. The transformation applied to the joint co-ordinates
during the move can be translational, rotational, mirrored or stretched. The view is
continuously updated during the positioning process as a visual check on the new
location. Note that the Current set is automatically extended for the move operation
so that all members attached to joints in the set are selected as well. This is because,
if a joint moves, then members attached to it must also move. If a member has only a
joint at one end in the set then that joint will move while the other end remains
stationary, thereby stretching the member. A special case exists where a member is in
the Current set, but neither of its joints is. This is clearly impossible, and both joints
will be automatically selected in this case.
The translate, rotate, mirror and stretch operations are described in the following
four topics.
Build the Current set to be moved using any of the Selection methods described
earlier. When ready to proceed, select the Joints / Move or Members / Move options
from the main menu bar or Drawing tool bar buttons and choose a translational,
rotational, mirrored or stretched move.
While moving joints, the properties (available from the right-hand mouse button
Context Menu are extended to include:
Merge joints
The moving process will not generate new joints, but moved joints
may end up at the same location as an existing joint in the nonmoved structure. Tick this option to merge the moved joints with
any existing joints that have the same co-ordinates.
Merge
members
The moving process will not generate new members, but moved
members may end up at the same location as an existing member in
the non-moved structure. Tick this option to merge the new
members with any existing members that connect the same joints.
Merging joints and members during the move will slow down the process, as the
entire structure is searched for duplications. As an alternative you can switch both
these options off and use the Tools / Merge options after the move is complete.
5.5.9
Translational
member move
After selecting the Move / Translate option you will need to do the following:
Pick the
axis. Every joint in the Current set will be moved by these offsets.
As the reference point is moved the position of the set is
continuously updated.
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When the final reference point position has been picked, all the joints and members in
the Current set will be moved to their new location. Duplicate joints and members
will be merged if the appropriate options have been ticked.
5.5.10
Rotational
member move
If you select a rotational move, the Move dialog box is extended as follows:
X, Y or Z axis
local axis system.
Two points
available.
Member
x-axis.
only its direction.
Angle
definition
method
Specify angle
Specify two points
Position
rotation axis

representation of the alignment of the rotation axis will be
The degree of rotation must next be specified. The actions depend on the angle
definition method selected:
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Specify two
points

the move. It does not need to be related in any way to the structure or
are available.
reference point for the move. The degree of rotation is derived from
axis.
Joints and members will be merged if the appropriate options have been ticked.
5.5.11
Mirrored member
move
If you select a mirrored move, the Move dialog box is extended as follows:
You must first specify the plane in which the Set is to be mirrored. This must be the
YZ, XZ or XY plane.
Select mirror
plane
Pick a point in space which will provide the reference point for the
Pick the
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If you want to mirror about a specific joint, then all you have to do is pick that joint
twice.
5.5.12
Stretched member
move
This option enables you to stretch a selected part of the structure. The direction of the
stretch is related to the current axes, which can be either the global axes or a
previously defined local axis system. This feature operates on the Current set, so you
should make sure that the set is correct before proceeding.
Position stretch The stretch origin provides the base position which will be used to
calculate the new location of the Current set. A set of two or
origin
three-dimensional crosshairs will be drawn at the origin position.
Pick a point to act as the reference point for the stretch. The
Pick the
reference point position of the reference point relative to the stretch origin will
determine the possible directions of the stretch.
Reposition the Move the reference point to its new position. As you do so the
reference point position of the Current set will be continuously updated as a visual
check on the operation.
When the handle has been repositioned the co-ordinates of the selected joints will be
updated.
The new co-ordinates are calculated as follows :
Xn = Xo + (X-Xo)(Xr1-Xo)
(Xr2-Xo)
where X is the original co-ordinate
Xn is the new X co-ordinate after the stretch
Xo is the X co-ordinate of the stretch origin
Xr1 is the X co-ordinate of the reference point before the stretch.
Xr2 is the X co-ordinate of the reference point after the stretch.
The new Y and Z co-ordinates are calculated in a similar fashion.
Two things should be noted regarding this calculation:
If the reference point has the same X co-ordinate as the stretch origin then
there will be no movement of any joint in the direction of the X-axis.
Any joint which shares the same X co-ordinate as the stretch origin will not be
moved (in the X direction).
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Note that the stretch may be different in each axis direction. If you wish to achieve a
uniform stretch, then pick a reference point at 45 degrees to the relevant axes and
move the point in the same direction.
5.5.13
Intersecting
members
This option can be used to create joints at the intersections of members. A set of
members is selected in the usual way. When the set is complete, pick the Intersect
option from the menu bar (Draw / Members / Intersect) or pick the Intersect button
from the Drawing tool bar.
Any two selected members which intersect will be joined at the point of intersection
using an automatically created new joint. Two members are deemed to intersect if the
length of the common normal between them is less than the specified intersection
tolerance (set in Tools / Options / General / Drawing). The intersection point is taken
to be the mid-point of the common normal.
There are two options available:
Either intersect the Current set (this will happen immediately you pick OK) or pick
the members to be intersected. In the latter case, the members are picked using the
selection pick window. Only a single window may be picked and the intersection
takes place immediately the left-hand mouse button is released. If no members in
those selected are found to intersect then a message to this effect appears.
Note that this process does not affect the Current set.
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5.5.14
DRAWING
Dividing members
This feature can be used to divide selected members into either a specified number of
members or into members of a specified length.
There are two options on selecting members:
Divide
members in
the Current
set
All members in the Current set will be divided. Each member in the
set will be divided in the same way. The division process takes
place immediately you pick OK.
Pick members In this option, the members are picked using the selection pick
to be divided window. Only a single window may be picked and the division
takes place immediately the left-hand mouse button is released.
Each member in the set will be divided in the same way. Note that
this process does not affect the Current set.
There are also two options on the way the member is divided:
Specify
number of
divisions
You must enter the number of subdivisions. All the selected

members will then be divided into the specified number of new
members.
Specify length You will be prompted for the length of each subdivision. All the
selected members will then be divided into members of the specified
of divisions
length. The subdivision process starts from End1 of each member.
Therefore, if there is an odd length of the original member
remaining, then this will be at End2 of the member.
Each member's loads, end releases and limits will be split among the new members as
appropriate.
5.6
Drawing releases
This option enables you to edit the member end releases graphically. The releases
will be displayed automatically when this option is entered even if the releases option
is not switched on in Properties / Input.
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Refer to Member releases for details of the possible release conditions.
5.6.1
Changing releases
This option enables you directly to modify the end releases of members. Pick the
member or members whose releases you wish to change.
The released members in the Current set will be changed as

Change
releases in the described below.
Current set
Pick releases to A square pick window will appear in the current graphical window.
This may be used simply to pick individual released members to be
be changed
changed - they will be changed as described below. Or the window
may be resized by holding down the left-hand mouse button and
dragging, the 'in window' and 'crossing window' features will apply
- see Selecting joints and members.
The behaviour is different, depending on whether a single released member or
multiple released members are picked by either method.
Single released member
Note that the four check boxes are dimmed and are inoperative. These boxes are only
relevant to multiple member selection - see below. The fields for Dx, Rx, Ry and Rz
may be individually edited to the values required for End1 and End2 independently.
The possible support types are Rigid and Free.
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Multiple released members
The fixities of the first released member found are entered in the End1 and End2
releases fields. If the releases of any of the other members in the selected group are
different to the first member, then the relevant release field is dimmed. If all
members have the same release in or about any axis, then that field is not dimmed and
may be edited. All members will then have that changed release. The other releases
will not be affected.
Note that with multiple released members, the check boxes are not dimmed. If you
pick one of these boxes, it will be ticked and the relevant release will no longer be
dimmed. If you change that release, then all members will then have that changed
release regardless of what their original releases were. This is a very powerful feature
and should be used with care, although you can always use the undo facility.
5.6.2
Adding releases
When adding releases the attributes of the releases to be added will appear in a dialog
as shown below. The attributes may be changed at this point, or, if adding by picking
with the cursor, they may be changed at any time by picking New Release Attributes
from the right-hand mouse button Context menu.
The possible attributes are Rigid and Free. For details, see Member releases.
This option enables you to either add releases to members in the Current set or add
releases to members individually.
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Add releases to
the current set
DRAWING
The members in the current set will receive the current release
attributes instantly.
window. This may be used simply to pick individual members
be released
for releases to be added to - they will be added instantly. Or the
5.6.3
Deleting releases
This option enables you to either delete releases from members in the Current set or
delete supports from members individually.
Delete
releases from
members in
the Current
set.
The released members in the Current set will have their release
attributes deleted instantly.
Pick releases to A square pick window will appear in the current graphical
window. This may be used simply to pick individual released
be deleted.
members for releases to be deleted from - they will be deleted
left-hand mouse button and dragging, the 'in window' and 'crossing
window' features will apply - see Selecting joints and members.
5.7
Drawing member
limits
Two types of limit are available in SuperSTRESS, support limits and member limits.
To enable these facilities, SuperSTRESS performs a non-linear analysis of the
structure through a series of repeated analyses. At each cycle, a member or support is
removed if it is found to be outside the limits previously set. Only the most critical
member or support is removed each time.
This option enables you to graphically edit the member limits. The limits will be
displayed automatically when this option is entered even if the member limits option
is not switched on in Properties / Input.
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Refer to Member limits for details of the possible limit conditions.
5.7.1
Changing member
limits
This option enables you directly to modify the limits of members. Pick the member
or members whose limits you wish to change.
Change
limits in the
Current set
The limited members in the Current set will be changed as

described below.
Pick limits to
be changed
A square pick window will appear in the current graphical window.

This may be used simply to pick individual limited members to be
changed - they will be changed as described below. Or the window
may be resized by holding down the left-hand mouse button and
dragging, the 'in window' and 'crossing window' features will apply
- see Selecting joints and members.
The behaviour is different, depending on whether a single limited member or multiple

limited members are picked by either method.
Single limited member
Note that the check box is dimmed and is inoperative. This box is only relevant to
multiple limited member selection - see below. The field for limit type may be edited
to the value required. The possible limit types are None, Tension only and
Compression only.
Multiple limited members
The limit of the first limited member found is entered in the limits field. If the limit
of any of the other limited members in the selected group is different to the first
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member, then the limit field is dimmed. If all limited members have the same limit,
then the field is not dimmed and may be edited. All limited members will then have
that changed limit.
Note that with multiple limited members, the check box is not dimmed. If you pick
the box, it will be ticked and the limit field will no longer be dimmed. If you change
that limit, then all limited members will then have that changed limit regardless of
what their original limit was. This is a very powerful feature and should be used with
care, although you can always use the undo facility.
5.7.2
Adding member
limits
When adding member limits the attributes of the member limits to be added will
appear in a dialog as shown below. The attributes may be changed at this point, or, if
adding by picking with the cursor, they may be changed at any time by picking New
Member Limit Attributes from the right-hand mouse button Context menu.
The possible attributes are Tension only and Compression only. For details, see
Member limits.
This option enables you to either add limits to members in the Current set or add
limits to members individually.
Add limits to the The members in the current set will receive the current limit
attributes instantly.
current set
window. This may be used simply to pick individual members
be limited
for limits to be added to - they will be added instantly. Or the
5.7.3
Deleting member
limits
This option enables you to either delete limits from members in the Current set or
delete limits from members individually.
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The limited members in the Current set will have their limit
Delete limits
from members in attributes deleted instantly.
the Current set.
Pick member
limits to be
deleted.
5.8
Drawing load areas

members for limits to be deleted from - they will be deleted
left-hand mouse button and dragging, the 'in window' and
'crossing window' features will apply - see Selecting joints and
members.
This option enables you to enter and edit the load areas on the structure.
Choose Load areas from the Drawing tool bar drop down selection list or from the
Draw menu item. On selection of the option you will be presented with a further
choice; Change, Add or Delete. These are described in the following topics.
The Current Load Area Attributes option is also available from the context menu
while adding loads.
5.8.1
Changing load
areas
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This enables you to either change the load areas related to the current structure set
or pick the load areas to be changed. Pick the option you want and a dialog box will
appear. If using the current structure set, all load areas having any members in the set
will be listed. If you picking using the mouse cursor, all load areas at that point will
be listed.
Initially the first load area in the list will be highlighted and the dialog will not have
focus. Instead focus is in the graphics window with a loading cursor icon. You may
pick individual members in the graphics window to add or delete them from the load
area. (Whether they are added or deleted depends on the current selection mode.
This is indicated by the status of the Add / Remove buttons in the selection toolbar, or
from the graphics context menu.) You may change selection mode on the fly. You
may also switch between graphics and the dialog as many times as you wish, simply
by clicking on them. Members that are included in a load area are indicated by a
dashed line style, those that are not are shown in a full line style.
Alternatively, you may change the attributes of the load area by editing the fields in
the dialog.
Load areas
This is a list of selected load areas. The attributes of the fields to

the right are for the currently highlighted load area (changes,
whether to the fields or in graphics mode, will affect only the
currently highlighted load area). You may change to a different
load area by clicking on it.
Name
The name of the currently highlighted load area. You may edit the
name in this field if you wish.
Member list
A list of the members forming the currently highlighted load area.

You may edit this list to change the extent of the load area.
Span direction One way or Multi. The default is Multi.

Angle direction The spanning direction for one-way spanning load areas. The
default is 0 degrees. See load areas table for a definition of the
load direction. This field will be dimmed if the span direction is
set to Multi.
5.8.2
Adding load areas
When adding load areas, the following dialog will appear. you to specify a load area
name and the spanning attributes of the .
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Name
DRAWING
The name of the new load area (maximum 100 characters). The
name defaults to 'Load area x' where x is the next available load
area number.
Span direction One way or Multi. The default is Multi.

Angle direction The spanning direction for one-way spanning load areas. The
default is 0 degrees. See load areas table for a definition of the
load direction. This field will be dimmed if the span direction is
set to Multi.
On picking OK, the following dialog will appear.
The load area may be defined by using the members in the current structure set or
picking members in the graphics window.
If using the current structure set, the set will be created immediately, using the rules
described in load areas.
If picking members to form the new load area, focus will change to the graphics
window with a loading cursor icon. You may pick individual members in the
graphics window to add or delete them from the load area. (Whether they are added
or deleted depends on the current selection mode. This is indicated by the status of
the Add / Remove buttons in the selection toolbar, or from the graphics context
menu.) You may change selection mode on the fly. Members that are included in a
load area are indicated by a dashed line style, those that are not are shown in a full
line style. The load area will be updated continuously, depending on the current
member selection. When you are happy with the load area, pick Cancel from the
context menu or click again on the Add button in the Drawing toolbar.
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5.8.3
Deleting load areas
DRAWING
On selecting this option the following dialog appears.
Delete loads
areas using the
Current set.
All load areas that have any members in the Current set will be
deleted instantly.

Delete loads
areas by picking window. This may be used to pick individual load areas to be
deleted - they will be deleted instantly. If several load areas exist
load areas
at the pick point then the following dialog appears.
You may select as many load areas as you wish by highlighting

them. On picking Ok they will be deleted instantly.
Whichever method is used to delete load areas, when SuperSTRESS finds that the
load area is used in a basic loadcase, the following dialog appears, allowing you to
delete the relevant basic loadcase as well. If you do not delete the basic loadcase, the
load area entry will change to 'undefined' in the basic loadcase table.
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5.9
Drawing loads
DRAWING
This option enables you to enter and edit the basic loads on the structure.
Choose Basic loads from the Drawing tool bar drop down selection list or from the
Draw menu item. On selection of the option you will be presented with a further
choice; Change, Add or Delete. These are described in the following topics.
The New Load Attributes option is also available from the context menu while adding
loads.
5.9.1
Changing loads
This enables you to either change the loads acting on the current selection set or
pick a new selection of joints, members or load areas to be changed. Pick the option
you want and a dialog box will appear. If you pick a single joint, member or load
area by either method, a dialog box referring to that item will appear.
Note that only a single joint appears in the load tree in the left box, and only a single
joint in the joint list on the right. When you select multiple joints and / or members
and / or load areas by either method, the tree structure and lists are expanded as the
following example.
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In either case, pick on a load in the load tree and the details of that load will be
presented for editing. Note that the load references in the tree are generic e.g. 'joint
load'. Each generic entry refers to a distinct entry which may occur on more than one
joint or member - the load details for each must be identical.
While changing loads, you will also have the opportunity to add and delete loads and
add loadcases; these are covered in detail in the following topics.
5.9.2
Adding loads
When adding loads, if no loadcases exist, then a dialog will appear asking you to
specify a loadcase name (maximum 40 characters).
Following the loadcase definition (or immediately if a loadcase already exists) the
attributes of the load to be added will appear in a dialog as shown below. The
attributes may be changed at this point, or, if adding by picking with the cursor, they
may be changed at any time by picking New Load Attributes from the right-hand
mouse button Context menu.
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The load type is selected from the drop down list.
There are also drop down lists for load axis and load action.
You may add loads to joints and members in the Current set or to selected joints,
members and load areas.
The joints and members in the Current set will receive the load
Add loads to
the Current set type that is specified next. Obviously, member loads will only be
applied to members and joint loads to joints.
Pick items to be Loads will be added as items are picked. Each joint or member
picked will immediately receive the current load type if it is
loaded
appropriate. The load type can be changed from the context menu
at any time.
When picking load areas , to avoid confusion when these overlap,
a dialog is shown when more than one is present at the pick point.
Select the load area(s) you wish to apply the load to. You may
make multiple selections using the keyboard shift and control keys.
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5.9.3
Deleting loads
DRAWING
This option enables you to either delete loads from joints and members in the Current
set or delete loads from joints and members individually.
Delete loads
from the
Current set.
The joints and members in the Current set will have their
loads deleted instantly.
Pick items to be A square pick window will appear in the current graphical
window. This may be used simply to pick individual
deleted.
joints, members or load areas for loads to be deleted from they will be deleted instantly. Or the window may be
resized by holding down the left-hand mouse button and
dragging, the 'in window' and 'crossing window' features
will apply - see Selecting joints and members.
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6.
Input tables
6.1
Input table
operations
6.1.1
Table operations
INPUT TABLES
The table operations in SuperSTRESS are consistent with those of SuperSUITE.

Table operations cover keyboard control, mouse control, block entry, filters, list input,
calculator and sorting.
A full description of these features is given in the topics following SuperSUITE table
data input.
Table import and export is as the standard SuperSUITE operation, described in
SuperSUITE import text and SuperSUITE export text.
The import / export formats of SuperSTRESS tables are given in the topics following
SuperSTRESS table formats.
6.1.2
Paste special
This option provides a more intelligent interpretation of the data in the clipboard. It
provides two main options for how the data in the clipboard is pasted into the selected
area. Note that the data on the clipboard must also be preceded by the relevant table
header on a separate line - see Table Formats.
The mode that is available is dependent on the information that has been copied:
Insert
Inserts the data in the clipboard into new rows, renumbering

subsequent rows if necessary. The data will be inserted into the
table below the row where the cursor is currently located.
Insert is available after the relevant row headers, i.e. the first
column of the rows required, have been selected, eg
Overwrite
The modified data will overwrite the highlighted cells. Note that the
number of rows and columns highlighted when pasting must be the
same as those highlighted when the data was copied.
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Overwrite is available if only the cells are copied by dragging the

mouse within the table, eg
The 'Change loadcase' option allows you to copy data from one loadcase to another.
You can then enter the new Basic Loadcase Number into the Adjustment Table. The
Basic load data stored in the clipboard will then be inserted into the loadcase that is
specified. If this loadcase is to be modified, for example increasing the magnitudes, a
further paste special should be used.
The data can be modified as it is pasted. The options described below can be used to
produce job data with a minimum of manually modified information.
Constant
difference
Adds the stated difference to each value in the clipboard.

For example, using a constant difference of 5000:
Incremental
difference
Adds the value entered to the clipboard value and continues to do

so for all the highlighted cells. This option is only available when
one row has been copied to the clipboard
For example, using an incremental difference value of 2000 and a
clipboard value of 2500:
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Factor
INPUT TABLES
Multiplies the clipboard values by the stated factor.

For example, using a factor of -2.0:
Apply to ALL
Applies the adjustment specified to all columns.
The adjustment methods are not applicable when there is no numerical data in the
table, eg in the releases and limits tables. In these cases a simplified paste special
table will be displayed with only the overwrite option available. Note that a simple
paste could perform the same operation.
The 'Adjustment Method table' is displayed to allow greater flexibility of the Paste
Special operation.
The table can be used to apply multiple differences or factors to each column of cells.
Alternatively the 'Apply to all' option can be used so that the same adjustment is made
to all columns.
Only one option will be effective for all columns at one time, i.e. you cannot apply
both a constant difference and a factor in one adjustment, although the adjustment
may vary from column to column.
The Basic Loadcases table has a modified Adjustment Method Table so that it is
possible to copy data from one Basic Loadcase and Paste it into a different Basic
loadcase.
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The 'Change loadcase' option has been added. You can enter the new Basic Loadcase
Number into the Adjustment Table. The Basic load data stored in the clipboard will
then be inserted, with its specified adjustment, into the loadcase that is specified.
6.1.3
Add special
After selecting Add Special a dialog box will appear on the screen.
This allows you to enter a single joint or member or a list of joints or members. The
list need not be continuous.
If the list contains joints or members that already exist, these will not be overwritten
and a warning message will be given.
If no warnings are given, the listed entries will be inserted automatically in the
relevant table. Default values will be used where relevant.
In the case of adding joints, you will be prompted for the co-ordinates of the first and
last referenced joints in the list. Any intermediate joints will be equally spaced
between these two, regardless of the spacing of the joint numbering.
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In the case of adding members, you will be prompted for a list of joints forming the
End1 joints of the members and a list forming the End2 joints. The lists must specify
the same number of joints, but the sequencing and spacing can be different.
The specified material type, section type and beta angle will be applied to all
members created.
With basic loads, Add Special becomes active when a single basic loadcase entry is
selected. When a list of joints / members is entered, basic loadcase entries will be
created for all entries in the list and appended to the table, each having the load
attributes of the selected entry.
6.2
Input table import /

export
6.2.1
Import text
SuperSTRESS text import is one of the pages of the Text Import Wizard. The first
page of the wizard is common to all SuperSUITE modules and is described in
SuperSUITE import text.
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The list of components is shown in the area to the left of the dialog. Only those
components found in the data file are listed. For instance there were no member
limits contained in the file for the above dialog: if there had been, it would have been
included in the list.
Initially, all the check boxes are ticked, and the data for all components will be
included in the import. However, you may untick components and they will not then
be included. Pick select all and deselect all to make wholesale changes.
Pick Next to proceed to the next page or back to return to the previous page. If this is
the last page of the dialog, Next is replaced with Finish. Picking finish will start the
import process.
As the file is read a syntax check is performed. If the syntax check fails then relevant
error messages will be listed in a window and the import will be terminated and an
undo operation carried out.
The imported data is always in the format for a 3D structure. When exporting a 2D
structure additional zero or empty string fields are added for the 3D missing
components. When importing to a 2D structure, superfluous 3D components are
ignored.
As an example, it is possible to list all the input data of a job to a delimited file, and
then read it back in its entirety to a new job of a different type, eg from a plane frame
to a space frame. Note that some components are not appropriate to certain structure
types, eg member releases in a plane truss. In these cases, the check boxes for that
component will not be selected, and if you select them a warning message will be
issued and you will not be able to leave the current page of the wizard.
6.2.2
SURF import text
SuperSTRESS SS-SURF text import is one of the pages of the Text Import Wizard.
The first page of the wizard is common to all SuperSUITE modules and is described
in SuperSUITE import text.
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The list of components is shown in the area to the left of the dialog. Only those
components found in the data file are listed. For instance there were no member
effects contained in the file for the above dialog: if there had been, it would have been
included in the list.
Initially, all the check boxes are ticked, and the data for all components will be
included in the import. However, you may untick components and they will not then
be included. Pick select all and deselect all to make wholesale changes.
Pick Next to proceed to the next page or back to return to the previous page. If this is
the last page of the dialog, Next is replaced with Finish. Picking finish will start the
import process.
As the file is read a syntax check is performed. If the syntax check fails then relevant
error messages will be listed in a window and the import will be terminated and an
undo operation carried out.
The imported data is always in the format for a 3D structure. When exporting a 2D
structure additional zero or empty string fields are added for the 3D missing
components. When importing to a 2D structure, superfluous 3D components are
ignored.
As an example, it is possible to list all the input data of a job to a delimited file, and
then read it back in its entirety to a new job of a different type, eg from a plane frame
to a space frame. Note that some components are not appropriate to certain structure
types, eg member releases in a plane truss. In these cases, the check boxes for that
component will not be selected, and if you select them a warning message will be
issued and you will not be able to leave the current page of the wizard.
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6.2.3
Export text
INPUT TABLES
The text export feature is available from File / Export / Text on the main menu bar
from any SuperSUITE module and from any window. See SuperSUITE export text
for a general description of its operation.
There are two options under Export Text. If a table is open, then you may export that
table only - select 'Current Table' from the menu. If you highlight cells in the table,
only those cells will be exported, otherwise the whole table will be exported.
If you select 'Current Job' from the menu, then you will start up the Text Export
Wizard, which allows selective export of multiple tables from any SuperSUITE
module. The operation of the Text Export Wizard follows.
The first page of the Text Export Wizard is common to all modules, subsequent pages
are presented depending on which modules are selected in the first page. For a
description of the first page, see SuperSUITE export text.
SuperSTRESS data will always be present, and always comes as page two of the
wizard, as below.
There are two lists, one for input tables and the other for results tables. At the left
hand side of each item in the lists is a check box. Initially this box will be ticked if
there is any data for that item present in the job.
Simply select or deselect the items to produce the required contents of the exported
file. Note that ticking a box where no data is present will have no effect. The select
and deselect buttons can be used to make wholesale changes. These buttons are
slightly different to the normal ones found in other dialogs in that a drop down list is
produced when you pick the button.
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You may choose to select or deselect all input data, results or both.
Finally, pick Next to proceed to the next page, or, if this is the last page, Finish.
6.2.4
Export text
The export feature is available from File on the main menu bar from any SuperSUITE
module and from any window.
The export of text from all SuperSUITE modules is carried out through the Text
Export Wizard, which will start when Export / Text is selected. The first page of the
Text Export Wizard is common to all modules, subsequent pages are presented
depending on which modules are selected in the first page. For a description of the
first page, see SuperSUITE export text.
The SuperSTRESS SS-SURF page (when SS-SURF data is present) always follows
the SuperSTRESS page of the wizard, as below.
There are two lists, one for input tables and the other for results tables. At the left
hand side of each item in the lists is a check box. Initially this box will be ticked if
there is any data for that item present in the job.
Simply select or deselect the items to produce the required contents of the exported
file. Note that ticking a box where no data is present will have no effect. The select
and deselect buttons can be used to make wholesale changes. These buttons are
slightly different to the normal ones found in other dialogs in that a drop down list is
produced when you pick the button.
You may choose to select or deselect all input data, results or both.
Finally, pick Next to proceed to the next page, or, if this is the last page, Finish.
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6.3
Specific input
tables
6.3.1
Input tables
INPUT TABLES
There are different options for default attributes and filters with each table.
For details of the facilities available see the appropriate table:
Titles
Materials
Sections
Joints
Supports
Support limits
Members
Releases
Member limits
Load areas
Basic loads
Pattern loads
Combination loads
6.3.2
Titles table
The Job Titles define the Job name, date, engineer's name etc. The titles are included
in the title block of the printed output.
The only significance of the titles is as a source of reference and identification for you
and can consist of any alpha/numeric characters.
Job Number:19 characters
Job Title:49 characters
Structure Name:49 characters
Made by:19 characters
Date :DD/MM/YY
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The Job Info tab in the Titles dialog contains information on the data entered into
SuperSTRESS. It is not editable.
6.3.3
Materials table
The Materials table is a dialog box containing a list of currently defined materials, and
the properties of each.
The table has two group boxes, Materials and Properties, described below.
The current materials in the job are shown in a list on the left-hand side. One of the
materials in the list will be highlighted, and the details of this material will be shown
in the various properties fields on the right-hand side. When you start a new job, the
list will be empty and the fields blank, unless you have set up some defaults. To add
a material pick the 'New' button at the bottom of the dialog box. This will highlight
the first available field in the list ready for you to enter its details. If you already have
entries in the list, then the next entry will be highlighted.
To add any of the materials in the current job to the defaults, (so that they may be
available for a future job), highlight the material in the table and pick the 'Add To
Defaults' button at the bottom of the list. You may display and edit the default
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materials using the Default facility described below. If you pick a material name that
already exists in the defaults, then a warning message will be displayed.
You will be asked if you want to append or overwrite the existing default material
with that name or not.
If you append the material, you will have two materials with the same name (but
possibly different properties) in your defaults. If you overwrite the existing material,
the name in your defaults will not change, but the properties may. Press Cancel to
abort.
When you start a new job, all the materials from your defaults will be entered into the
Materials table for that job.
The properties required are:

Material
name
The name is a string of characters of your choice, but note that

the name must be between 1 and 25 characters long.
Young's Modulus
Modulus of Rigidity or Shear Modulus
CTE
Coefficient of linear thermal expansion
Density
Unit weight
For each property you can define the units for display. Simply pick on the units field
to open a drop down selection list and choose the appropriate one.
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Default materials can also be accessed by picking the browse button at the right of the
material name or the Defaults button at the bottom of the dialog box. In this case
the default materials appear in a list to the left of a pop up window. When you
highlight one, the 'Copy' button will become active and picking this will copy the
material to the right-hand list to be added to the job materials when 'OK' is picked.
You can add any number of materials in one session.
6.3.4
Sections table
The Section table dialog box is divided into a number of areas:
The current sections in the job are shown in a list on the left-hand side. One of the
sections in the list will be highlighted, and the details of this section will be shown in
the various fields on the right-hand side. When you start a new job, the list will be
empty and the fields blank unless you have set up some default sections. To add a
section, pick the 'New' button at the bottom of the dialog box. This will highlight the
first available field in the list ready for you to enter its details. If you already have
entries in the list, then the next entry will be highlighted.
To add any of the sections in the current job to the Defaults, (so that they may be
available for a future job), highlight the section in the table and pick the 'Add To
Defaults' button at the bottom of the list. You may display and edit the sections using
the Defaults facility described below. If you pick a section name that already exists in
the Defaults, then a warning message will be displayed.
When you start a new job, all the sections from your defaults will be entered into the
Sections table for that job.
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For a new section, the first information to specify is the section name and type. The
name is a string of characters of your choice, but note that the name must not be left
blank. When you choose a Standard section, the name will be automatically inserted.
To the right of the Section type group box are two tick boxes, for standard and
Grillage slab sections.
Standard sections are accessed from the browse button above the tick box. You have
access here to the Steel section tables where you can select a section. When a
standard section is selected the tick box becomes undimmed and ticked. However,
the rest of the fields in the dialog become dimmed - you cannot edit them because this
is a standard section. If you pick the tick box, the tick will disappear and the tick box
will be dimmed. You will also see that the [S] following the section name in the
Name field will disappear. The rest of the fields are now available for editing because
this is no longer a standard section. This is a way of modifying the properties of a
standard section. However, note that the section will no longer be compatible with
SuperSTEEL.
Grillage slab sections are those used for a grillage idealisation of a solid slab. In such
idealisations, the slab is represented by a grillage of rectangular members. It is
customary in such idealisations to modify the Ix properties of the rectangular section
(usually by halving the Ix value). The Grillage slab section tick box is dimmed unless
a Rectangle section category is selected. The section must also be solid. In this case,
the tick box will become undimmed. If you now tick the tick box, the Ix field in the
inertias will become editable and you can enter an appropriate value. The box may be
ticked either before or after the section dimensions are input. Unticking the box
returns the Ix field to its previously calculated value.
From the Section type group box you can also select the category of section from a
drop down selection list.
The section type may be one of those listed above (see Sections for details) or a
Standard type (see Steel Section Tables). In the case of the general, geometric,
haunch and taper sections, you will need to enter the section property values into the
fields directly. For geometric sections, the section properties are calculated and
displayed when you pick the 'Apply' button at the bottom of the dialog box.
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A key diagram explains what dimensions are required.
For general sections, all properties must be input directly.
Standard sections may be accessed by picking the browse button in the Section Type
group box to the right of the section name. This allows you to select from the library
sections and standard sections. The selected section will replace the section currently
highlighted in the sections list, whether this is an existing section or a new one being
added at the end of the list. The section properties of standard sections are not
editable and are therefore dimmed. However, the units of these standard sections can
be altered to suit.
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In the section list, standard sections are identified by a [S] to the left of the name. A
tick in the check box underneath the browse button also identifies standard sections.
If you pick on the check box it will become unticked, the properties fields will no
longer be dimmed and become editable, and the [S] disappears from the section name.
It is important to note that this is an irreversible process and the section will then not
be recognised by SuperSTEEL.
Default and standard sections can also be accessed by picking the Defaults button at
the bottom of the dialog box. In this case, the default and standard sections appear in
a list to the left of a pop up window. When you highlight one, the 'Copy' button
will become active and picking this will copy the section to the right-hand list to be
added to the job sections when 'OK' is picked. You can add any number of sections in
one session. You may also rotate the section as it is added to the right-hand list by
picking the Rotation field to open up a drop down selection list giving the choice of 0,
90, 180 and 270 degrees.
Note that the rotation described here is not the same as the Beta angle rotation
described under member axes. This rotation has the effect of turning an 'I' section
into a 'H' section for instance. The resulting section's axes will still be aligned with
the global axes in the default orientation unless modified by the Beta angle.
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6.3.5
INPUT TABLES
Joints table
See Keyboard control and Mouse control for information on how to interact with the
table.
When adding joints, the default co-ordinate is assumed to lie in line with and equally
spaced from the preceding two entries in the table. If there is only one preceding
entry then the default will be equal to that one entry. If there are no preceding entries
then the default will be zero.
Units, fonts and colours are changeable via options on the right-hand mouse button
Context menu.
The sort options simply sort the joint co-ordinates into ascending and descending
order. See Sorting table columns for details.
The table filters are available via Properties on the context menu.
There are five filters for the joints table. Each filter has a check box to the left. If
ticked the filter is active and the associated field settings take effect. If not ticked, the
field settings have no effect, regardless of their content.
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Note that, to be listed, the table entry must pass all filters that have been ticked. It is
quite possible to set filters such that all entries are excluded.
Structure set
Pick from one of your defined structure sets, or use CURRENT (the
currently selected joints and members) or ALL (all joints and
members).
X value
The 'From' and 'to' fields specify the range of values for the X coordinate filter (minimum and maximum). Only those joints within
this range will be listed.
Y value
The 'From' and 'to' fields specify the range of values for the Y coordinate filter (minimum and maximum). Only those joints within
Z value
The 'From' and 'to' fields specify the range of values for the Z coordinate filter (minimum and maximum). Only those joints within
Joint list
Only those joints listed will be included in the table. See List input
for details of list specification.
Joints can be imported from an ASCII delimited file. The imported joints will be
merged with the existing entries in the table. This feature enables the geometry to be
generated using a third party program such as a text editor or more sophisticated preprocessor. Select File / Import from the menu bar.
6.3.6
Supports table
table.
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When adding supports the default fixity is 'Rigid'. You may change this to 'Free' or
'Spring' using the drop down selection list. See Joint Supports for more information
on support types.
Context menu.
The sort options simply sort the fixities into ascending and descending order, 'Rigid'
being the lowest sort priority and 'Spring' the highest. See Sorting table columns for
details.
There are two filters for the joints table. Each filter has a check box to the left. If
Structure Set This gives you the choice of a previously defined structure set, ALL,
or the CURRENT set. Only those supported joints in the selected
Structure Set will be listed.
Joint list
6.3.7
Only those supported joints listed will be included in the table. See
List input for details of list specification.
Support limits
table
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table.
When adding support limits, the default is 'None'. You may change this to 'Positive'
or 'Negative' using the drop down selection list.
Context menu.
The sort options simply sort the limits into ascending and descending order, 'None'
being the lowest sort priority and 'Negative' the highest. See Sorting table columns
for details.
There are two filters for the joints table. Each filter has a check box to the left. If
or the CURRENT set. Only those supported joints with limits in the
selected Structure Set will be listed.
Joint list
Only those joints with limited supports listed will be included in the
table. See List input for details of list specification.
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6.3.8
INPUT TABLES
Members table
table.
When adding members, a dialog box will pop up to allow the next member number,
Material, Section and Beta angle to be set.
The End1 joint number will default to the End2 joint number of the preceding
member. The End2 joint number will default to the End1 joint number plus one. The
Material Type, the Member Type and the Beta Angle will default to those entered for
the preceding member.
Context menu
The sort options simply sort the various columns into ascending and descending order
based on the numerical values in the cells. See Sorting table columns for details.
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There are five filters for the members table. Each filter has a check box to the left. If
or the CURRENT set. Only those members in the selected Structure
Set will be listed.
Section type
Only those Sections listed will be included in the table. See List
input for details of list specification.
Material type Only those Materials listed will be included in the table. See List
Length
The 'From' and 'to' fields specify the range of values for the member
length filter (minimum and maximum). Only those members within
Member list
Only those members listed will be included in the table. See List
Members can be imported from an ASCII delimited file. The imported members will
be merged with the existing members. Note that an existing member can be
overwritten by an imported member that has been given the same member number.
6.3.9
Releases table
table.
When adding releases, the default is 'Rigid'. You may change this to 'Free' using the
drop down selection list.
Context menu.
The sort options simply sort the releases into ascending and descending order, 'Rigid'
being the lowest sort priority. See Sorting table columns for details.
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There are two filters for the releases table. Each filter has a check box to the left. If
or the CURRENT set. Only those members with releases in the
Member list
6.3.10
Member limits
table
table.
When adding member limits, the default is 'None'. You may change this to 'Tension'
or 'Compression' using the drop down selection list.
Context menu.
The sort options simply sort the limits into ascending and descending order, 'None'
being the lowest sort priority. See Sorting table columns for details.
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There are two filters for the member limits table. Each filter has a check box to the
left. If ticked the filter is active and the associated field settings take effect. If not
ticked, the field settings have no effect, regardless of their content.
or the CURRENT set. Only those members with limits in the
6.3.11
Member list
Name
You may enter a string of up to 100 characters to identify the load

area. The default is' Load area n', where n is the next available entry
number.
Members
A list of the members that make up the load area. The default is no
list. Only valid SuperSUITE lists may be entered. When load areas
are entered graphically, the list will be entered into the table
automatically.
Load areas table
When the list length exceeds the space available in the table column,
a tool tip showing the whole list will be displayed if you hover the
mouse cursor over the table cell.
There is no limit to the list length.
Span
direction
This is a drop down selection list containing 'One way' or 'Multi'.

The default is 'Multi'.
Angle
The angle of the span direction. For the global XY plane, or planes
parallel to it, the span direction is measured relative to the global X
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axis, positive anticlockwise looking in the negative Z direction. For

all other planes, the span direction is measured relative to the
intersection line of the plane with the global XY plane. The default
is zero. This field is dimmed if the span direction is set to Multi.
The units of angle may be changed in SuperSTRESS Options.
6.3.12
Basic loads table
From Tables / Basic loads on the main menu bar, or by double clocking on Basic
loads in the Explorer, you will go to the Basic Load Titles table. From here the
loadcase entries can be opened by double clicking on the required title or right
clicking and selecting Open Entries. Or you can right click on the basic loadcase
branch of the Explorer to open the titles or entries from there.
You can also open the loadcase directly by double clicking on the loadcase title in the
explorer. Further options are given if you right click on the loadcase title in the
Explorer.
Open
Opens the selected basic loadcase table.
Open using current Opens the selected basic loadcase, filtered for the current
structure set. Only loads applied to the current structure set
structure set
will be included in the table.
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Open using joint list You will be asked for a list of joints. The selected basic
loadcase will be opened, filtered for the specified joint list.
Only loads applied to the joint list will be included in the
table.
Open using member You will be asked for a list of members. The selected basic
loadcase will be opened, filtered for the specified member
list
list. Only loads applied to the member list will be included
in the table.
New loadcase
A new branch will be added to the Explorer tree with a field

to enter the loadcase name (maximum 40 characters).
Delete loadcase
Deletes the currently selected loadcase. You may use undo

to reverse this action.
Rename loadcase
The field containing the loadcase name will become

editable.
Make loadcase the

current set
Makes the currently selected loadcase the current loadcase

set.
Add loadcase to
current set
Adds the currently selected loadcase to the current loadcase

set.
Remove loadcase
from current set
Removes the currently selected loadcase from the current

loadcase set.
The loadcase entries table has a variable number of headers depending on the load
type. The headers will change according to the load type you are currently entering.
There are four tabs at the bottom of the basic loadcase table, for joint loads, member
loads, area loads and distributed area loads. The loads are automatically filtered to be
displayed in the appropriate tab. The number of loads in the tab is also displayed, eg
Joints (8) below means that there are eight loads in the Joints tab.
Joint tab
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Member tab
Note that the member tab is not available for plane trusses or space trusses.
Area tab
Note that the area tab is not available for plane frames, plane trusses and subframes.
Distributed area tab
The distributed area loads are the loads generated by SuperSTRESS to model the
effects of the area loads. For grid frames and space frames, member linear loads are
generated. For space trusses, joint concentrated loads are generated. As with the area
tab, this tab is not available for plane frames, plane trusses and subframes. No fields
in the distributed area tab are editable.
To add new entries to the table (apart from the distributed area tab), right click and
select Add from the Context menu.
table.
Each basic load entry is defined in terms of a load type, load action, the reference
axes and the load values.
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There is no limit to the number of loads in any loadcase apart from the available disk
space in the Working and Data Directories.
For information on copying load information from one basic loadcase to another, see
Paste Special.
The properties available can be accessed from the Properties dialog (right click in the
table).
You may filter by load type, structure set and joint or member list depending on the
tab (there are no filters available in the area tab). You may also specify which
loadcases to view in the table. This is a useful way to be able to see several loadcases
at the same time.
The filter options apply to the current tab (there are no filters for the area tab). The
loadcase selection applies to all tabs.
6.3.13
Pattern loadcase
table
From Tables / Pattern loads on the main menu bar, or by double clocking on Pattern
loads in the Explorer, you will go to the Pattern Load Titles table. From here the
loadcase entries can be opened by double clicking on the required title or right
clicking and selecting Open Entries. Or you can right click on the pattern loadcase
you want in the Explorer and open the titles or entries from there.
To add new entries to the table, right click and select Add from the Context menu.
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Each Pattern load entry references part or all of the load entries in a previously
defined Basic loadcase.
Basic loadcase
The number of the basic loadcase being referenced.
Load factor
The factor applied to the load values from the basic

loadcase.
Loaded joint list
A list of joints whose loads are to be included.
Loaded member list
A list of members whose loads are to be included.
Loaded load area list
A list of load areas whose loads are to be included.
During the analysis the pattern loadcases are composed from the referenced basic
loadcases. Each pattern loadcase entry is dealt with in turn. All load entries
belonging to the basic loadcase are examined. The joint, member or load area number
is checked against the loaded joint list, loaded member list or loaded load area list. If
the joint, member or load area is found to be included in the relevant list then the load
entry is factored and then copied into the pattern.
The pattern loadcase is treated during the analysis as though it was an additional basic
loadcase.
6.3.14
Combination
loadcase table
From Tables / Combination loads on the main menu bar, or by double clocking on
Combination loads in the Explorer, you will go to the Combination Load Titles table.
From here the loadcase entries can be opened by double clicking on the required title
or right clicking and selecting Open Entries. Or you can right click on the
combination loadcase you want in the Explorer and open the titles or entries from
there.
To add new entries to the table, right click and select Add from the Context menu.
Previously defined loadcases, basic, pattern and combination, can be added,

subtracted and factored to generate combination loadcases.
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6.3.15
SS-SURF input
tables
INPUT TABLES
Loadcase
reference
The reference of the loadcase to be included in the combination (for

example B1, P15 or C12).
Load factor
The factor by which the results of the referenced loadcase are

multiplied. A negative factor will subtract the effect of the
referenced loadcase from the combination.
The tables for SS-SURF are dialogs to specify the type of influence surface and the
position in the structure.
For more details see:
Joint effects table
Member effects table
6.3.16
SS-SURF joint
effects table
The SuperSTRESS SS-SURF joint effects table is a tab of the Influence Surfaces
dialog.
Simply enter a list of joints in the fields for which you wish to produce influence
surfaces.
The Joint effects produce influence surfaces for the displacements and rotations at the
listed joints. These are measured in the Global axes directions.
The Supports effects produce influence surfaces for Reaction forces and moments at
the listed supports. Again these act in the Global directions. If any joints are listed in
the support section that are not supports, they will be ignored.
6.3.17
SS-SURF member
effects table
The SuperSTRESS SS-SURF joint effects table is a tab of the Influence Surfaces
dialog.
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Member effects produce influence surfaces for forces and moments at the listed
Member End1's and End2's. Fx is an axial force. Fy and Fz are shear forces. Mx is a
torque. My and Mz are bending moments. These are all in the Member Axes
directions.
6.4
Input table formats
6.4.1
Table formats
The formats of the imported and exported tables in SuperSTRESS conform to the
general rules for table formats of SuperSUITE.
For details of these conventions, see SuperSUITE table formats.
The formats are described in the following topics.
All specifications use ',' as the separator and ' " ' as the character field delimiter.
6.4.2
Job titles format
[SS TITLES]
"Number", " Name", " Structure", "By", "Date", "Type"
Type is one of the following:
Plane truss, Plane frame, Grillage, Space truss, Space frame, Sub frame
eg A1234, Bridge, A24, GKY, 10/08/04, Grillage
The following validation checks are performed when importing.
Number Max = 19 characters
Name Max = 49 characters
Structure Max = 49 characters
By Max = 19 characters
Date Format dd/mm/yy
Type Valid structure type name
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6.4.3
Material types
format
INPUT TABLES
[SS MATERIALS]
Entry, E, G, CTE, Density, "Name"
eg 2, 81000, 24000, 1e-05, 24, Steel
Entry Max = 10,000
Properties range = 10e96
6.4.4
Sections format
[SS SECTIONS]
Type:
Entries:
1
2
3-8
9
10
11-19
Entry, "Type", Ax, Ay, Az, Ix, Iy, Iz, Cy, Cz, "Name"
Entry, "Type", "Grillage slab section", Modified Ix, Dy, Dz, 0.0, Ty, Tz, 0.0,
Cy, Cz, "Name"
Entry, "Type", Dy, Dz, 0.0, Ty, Tz, 0.0, Cy, Cz, "Name"
Entry, "Type", S1, Dh, Wf, 0.0, Tf, Tw, Cy, Cz, "Name"
Entry, "Type", S1, 0.0, 0.0, S2, 0.0, 0.0, Cy, Cz, "Name"
Entry, "Type", od, wwt, wwb, tfl, tfr, tfd, bfl, bfr, bfd, Cy, Cz, "Name"
Type:
Section:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
Standard Sections
"General"
"Rectangle"
"Conic"
"Octagon"
"I section"
"T section"
"L section"
"H section"
"Haunch"
"Taper"
Concrete Sections
"Concrete general I"
"Concrete rectangular I"
"Concrete tapered I"
"Concrete rectangular T"
"Concrete tapered T"
"Concrete inverted tapered T"
"Concrete simple rectangular"
"Concrete tapered rectangular"
"Concrete simple circular"
eg 1, General, 12.34, 34,54, 23.23, 23.23, 33.32, 2.3, 1.2, 2.5, 300x300 column
Note: For rectangle standard sections there are two additional values. "Grillage slab
section" is either "Yes" or "No". When "Yes", Modified Ix is the value of Ix you
choose to override the normal calculation with.
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Entry Max = 10,000
All dimensions / properties range = 10e96
Cannot import any section other than concrete sections into a sub-frame
6.4.5
SuperSTRESS
joints format
[SS JOINTS]
Joint, X,Y,Z
eg. 1,200.23,100.23,25.32
Entry Max = 100,000,000
6.4.6
Supports format
[SS SUPPORTS]
Support, DX,DY,DZ,RX,RY,RZ
Support condition: Free, Rigid, spring = value
eg 1,Free,Rigid,1234.3456,Rigid,Free,Rigid
Support Max = 100,000,000
The support must exist.
6.4.7
Members format
[SS MEMBERS]
Member, Joint End1,Joint End2, Material type, Section type, Beta
eg 23,25,1,2,3,2.3654
Member Max = 100,000,000
Joint end Max = 100,000,000
Material & section type Max = 10,000
The joints, materials and sections need not exist.
6.4.8
Releases format
[SS RELEASES]
Member, Dx1, Rx1, Ry1, Rz1, Dx2, Rx2, Ry2, Rz2
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Release conditions: Free, Rigid

eg 23,Rigid ,Rigid ,Rigid ,Rigid ,Rigid ,Rigid ,Rigid ,Rigid
Member Max = 100,000,000
Condition Must be a valid name.
The member must exist.
Cannot import into a space truss or plane truss.
6.4.9
Support limits
format
[SS SUPPORT LIMITS]

Space trusses and frames: Support, DX, DY, DZ
Limit conditions: None, Positive, Negative
eg 23,None,Positive,None
Support Max = 100,000,000
Limit Must be a valid name
The support must exist.
6.4.10
Member limits
format
[SS MEMBER LIMITS]

All but grid frames: Member, Dx
Limit conditions: None, Tension only, Compression only
eg 12, Tension only
Member Max = 100,000,000
Condition Must be a valid name.
The member must exist.
Cannot import into grillage or sub-frame
6.4.11
Load areas format
[SS LOAD AREAS]

Grid frames, space trusses and space frames: Entry number, Load area name,
Member list, Span direction, Spanning angle
Entry number: 1-10,000
Member list: valid SuperSUITE string
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Span direction: "One way" or "Multi"

Spanning angle 0 - +180 degrees
eg 2, "1st Floor","20-40", "Multi", 45.0
Entry Max = 10,000. This is ignored during the paste operation and the table
entry number updated automatically.
Load area name - Max 100 characters
Member list -valid list
Span direction: "One way" or "Multi"
Spanning angle 0 - +180 degrees
Cannot import into sub-frame, plane frame or plane truss
6.4.12
Loadcase titles
format
[SS LOADCASE TITLES]

"Reference", "Name"
Reference =B, P or C followed by entry number.
eg B4, Basic loadcase 4
Reference First character must be B, P or C and remaining must be an integer
value. max = 100,000,000
Cannot import into a sub-frame
6.4.13
Basic load entries

format
[SS BASIC LOADS]

Entry number, Basic Loadcase, Type, Element, Axes, Action, V1, V2, V3, V4
Type: Joint concentrated, Joint displacement, Member concentrated, Member
full, Member self weight, Member uniform, Member linear, Member point
distortion, "Member full distortion", Member temperature, Member strain,
Area Uniform
Axes: Local, Global, Projected
Action: FX , FY , FZ, DX , DY , DZ, MX , MY , MZ, RX,
RY, RZ, Fx, Fy, Fz, Dx,, Dy, Dz, Mx, My, Mz, Rx, Ry,
Rz
Values V1: P, D, W, Wa, R, t, as appropriate to load type, V2: MC = L; MU = La;
ML = Wb, V3: MU = Lb; ML = La, V4: ML = Lb
eg 2,B2, Member concentrated, 3, Global, FX, 12, 0, 12, 0
Entry Max = 100,000,000
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Basic loadcase Basic loadcase title entry must exist

Type Must be a valid name.
Element Joint or member need not exist.
Action and axis must be valid for the current type
6.4.14
Pattern load
entries format
[SS PATTERN LOADS]

Entry number, Pattern Loadcase, Basic Loadcase, Factor, Joint list, Member
list, "Load area list"
eg 2, 3, B2, 2.0, ALL, ALL, "1-3"
Entry Max = 100,000,000
Pattern loadcase Pattern loadcase title entry must exist.
Basic loadcase First character must be B and remaining must be an integer value,
but basic loadcase need not exist.
Joint list Valid Integer style list but all joints need not exist.
Member list - Valid Integer style list but all members need not exist.
Load area list - Valid Integer style list but all load areas need not exist.
6.4.15
Combination load
entries format
[SS COMBINATION LOADS]

Entry number, Loadcase, "Source", Factor
Loadcase
Combination loadcase number
Source
The reference of the source loadcase. This can be either a

basic, pattern or combination loadcase. For example:
B61would refer to basic loadcase number 61
P15 would refer to pattern loadcase number 15
C31 would refer to combination number 31

Entry Max = 100,000,000
Combination loadcase Combination loadcase title entry must exist.
Loadcase reference First character must be B, P or C and remaining must be an
integer value, but basic loadcase need not exist.
6.4.16
SS-SURF joint
effects format
[SF JOINT EFFECTS]

Action, List
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Action may be: DX, DY, DZ, RX, RY, RZ, FX, FY, FZ, MX,
MY, MZ
List may be: Joint List, Support List
eg DX, 1T3
Action Must be a valid action.
Joint list Valid Integer style list but all joints need not exist.
Support list Valid Integer style list but all support need not exist.
6.4.17
SS-SURF member
effects format
[SF MEMBER EFFECTS]

Action, List
Action may be: FX1, FY1, FZ1, MX1, MY1, MZ1, FX2, FY2,
FZ2 MX2, MY2, MZ2
List may be: Joint List, Support List
E.g. MZ2 , 1T3
Action Must be a valid action.
Member list Valid Integer style list but all members need not exist.
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7.
Tools
7.1
Tools overview
TOOLS
The Tools provided in SuperSTRESS cover the following areas
7.2
Wizards
Removing gaps in tables
Coincident members
Merging joints and members
Re-ordering joints, members, and member orientation
Delete Results
Flip Axes
Influence Surfaces
Links to pre- and post-processors
Options customisation
Wizards
introduction
SuperSTRESS provides two wizards to get you started immediately. These are the
New Job Wizard and the Structure Wizard. If you are a new user, this is a way of
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TOOLS
getting to know the program and supplying something to work with. If you are
familiar with SuperSTRESS, these wizards provide very powerful features to generate
a great deal of information quickly and directly.
A Report Wizard is also available to prepare customised reports, which, once set up,
can be reused without additional work.
7.3
Remove gaps
Gaps, or undefined entries in tables, can be a result of a number of things, and are not
always undesirable. They may form part of a rational joint and member numbering
system in which different levels in the structure are allocated specific ranges of
numbers. However, if this is not the case and you want to shuffle all the entries up
the tables to remove the undefined entries then this option provides that facility.
A dialog box containing the various input table names is displayed. The check boxes
at the left of each table can have one of three possible states.
Dimmed
There are no gaps in this table, and so this option is not appropriate
Ticked
If a table is ticked, then there are gaps in it. If you then pick the
'Remove Gaps' button, this table (and any others that are ticked) will
have its gaps removed.
Not ticked
If you do not want gaps to be removed from a particular table, then

pick on it and the tick will disappear. When you pick the 'Remove
Gaps' button, this table (and any others that are not ticked) will not
have its gaps removed.
When you pick the 'Remove Gaps' button, the entries in the selected tables will be
shuffled up to remove the undefined entries. The order of the entries in the tables will
remain unchanged but not the numbering. All appropriate cross-referencing between
joints, members and load tables will be automatically dealt with to maintain the
integrity of the structural model.
The 'Purge Files' option flushes all unnecessary files and carries out an integrity check
and any necessary (and possible) repairs to the database. This may for instance be
necessary following inadvertent deletion of SuperSTRESS files by another
application. Please note that, if you select this option, the undo / redo list will be lost.
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7.4
TOOLS
Coincident
members
This option is available from the Tools Menu. It provides a report of any members in
the model that are coincident.
A wait box will appear while the program compares every member in the structure
with every other member in the structure.
Members are coincident with one another when part of one member shares the same
space with some part of another member. It need only be over a fraction of the length
for the coincidence to be detected.
The members in question must be axially 'in line' with one another so that their end
joints all lie on the same line in space.
A special case is a member that crosses another member at an angle so that there is a
point on both members where the space is shared. However, these two members
would not be considered coincident in this case, as they aren't in line (the space shared
is not a fraction of the length, but a brief point).
In the dialog box that appears members will be grouped into sets that are coincident
with each other. It is up to you to decide what action to take as a result of the report.
Merging members will only have an effect on members that have the same end joints.
It can of course be a deliberate and useful modelling technique to have members that
overlap, and so SuperSTRESS takes no automatic actions.
7.5
Merge joints
This option enables joints that have the same co-ordinates to be merged. If two joints
have the same co-ordinates they are said to be duplicated. Sometimes this may be a
deliberate modelling technique, but, if so, care needs to be exercised to avoid illconditioning. More usually duplication occurs as a by-product of data generation,
modelling and timesaving techniques, for instance when joining meshes or copying a
structure set. Note that if more than two joints have the same co-ordinates, this is
considered as a number of pairs of duplicated joints.
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Structure set
TOOLS
You may choose to search for duplicated joints from a Structure

set. All, Current and all named structure sets are available from a
drop down selection list. The default is All.
Tolerance mm In a computer it is rare that two non-integer numbers are ever

exactly equal. Two joints may appear to have identical coordinates whereas internally the values are slightly different. To
avoid this being a problem, you are asked to specify a tolerance. If
the difference between two co-ordinates is less than this tolerance
then those two co-ordinates are said to be equal.
Duplicate
joints
Use the 'Find First' and 'Find Next' buttons to search for duplicated
joints. As each pair is found, they are inserted into the 'Duplicate
Joints' fields, together with their co-ordinates.
Merged joints When you decide to merge duplicate joints, there are two options.
Merge
This merges the pair of joints currently reported in the 'Duplicate
Joints' fields. Following the merge, the pair of merged joints is
reported in the 'Merged Joints' area.
Merge all
This merges all duplicate joints. Following the merge, all pairs of
merged joints are reported in the 'Merged Joints' area.
When dealing with a pair of duplicated joints the lower numbered joint always takes
priority; the higher numbered joint will become undefined. References to the higher
numbered joint in all the various input tables will be changed to refer to the lower
numbered joint.
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Note that the reporting of duplicated joints in this table is done automatically. For
example if more than two joints are merged then all of these duplicates will be
removed automatically and one merge will be reported.
The Merge Joints operation can be done on-the-fly by changing the Drawing Options.
7.6
Merge members
This option enables the removal of duplicated members. If two members run between
the same two joints then they are said to be duplicated. It is possible for duplicated
members to be used as a deliberate modelling technique. For example, back-to-back
angles in a steel structure can be modelled by putting two members alongside each
other.
Structure set You may choose to search for duplicated members from a Structure
drop down selection list. The default is All.
Duplicate
members
Use the 'Find First' and 'Find Next' buttons to search for duplicated
members. As each pair is found, they are inserted into the 'Duplicate
Members' fields, together with their End1 and End2 joints.
Merged
members
When you decide to merge duplicate members, there are two

options.
Merge
This merges the pair of members currently reported in the 'Duplicate
Members' fields. Following the merge, the pair of merged members
is reported in the 'Merged Members' area.
Merge all
This merges all duplicate members. Following the merge, all pairs
of merged members are reported in the 'Merged Members' area.
When dealing with a pair of duplicated members the lower numbered member always
takes priority; the higher numbered member will become undefined. All references to
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the higher numbered member in all the various input tables will be changed to refer to
the lower numbered member.
Note that the reporting of duplicated members in this table is done automatically. For
example if more than two members are merged then all of these duplicates will be
removed automatically and one merge will be reported.
The Merge Members operation can be done on-the-fly by changing the Drawing
Options.
7.7
Re-order joints
When entering the structure using the Draw option you do not necessarily end up with
a logical numbering system for joints and members. For instance use of the mirror
facility may cause some sequences of joints to be numbered from left to right and
others from right to left. The Re-order facilities allow you to obtain a logical and
consistent numbering system for the structure.
Structure set
You may choose to re-order joints only within a particular Structure

drop down selection list. The default is All. During re-ordering,
only the joints within the structure set are considered, and these are
re-assigned within that set as appropriate; no other joints are
affected.
Sort criteria
Three sort criteria, X Co-ordinate, Y Co-ordinate and Z Co-ordinate,

are presented, and an 'Up' and 'Down' button. Using these buttons
you may prioritise X, Y and Z by selecting them and moving them
up or down (for two-dimensional structures one of these will not be
required). For instance if X is the highest priority (at the top of the
list), the joints will be numbered in predominantly X order. If two
joints have the same X co-ordinate (within tolerance), the next
priority co-ordinate (say Z) will be compared.
Sort control
parameters
Sort Order
The first sort parameter is the Sort Order, which can be either
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ascending or descending. This does not affect the priority, but how
each co-ordinate is sorted within itself.
Tolerance
The second sort parameter is the tolerance mentioned above when
two joints are considered to have the same co-ordinate in one axis.
It may be different for each axis.
When you are ready to carry out the sort, pick the 'Sort' button.
Note that certain applications such as SuperSTEEL and Wood-Armer make direct
references to the SuperSTRESS joint and member numbers. Any such data held in
the job file will get cross-referenced automatically when the joints and members are
re-ordered.
Re-ordering the joints can have a beneficial effect on the analysis time by reducing
the maximum joint difference, especially if the previous numbering arrangement was
disrupted by extensive use of Drawing options such as Copy, Move and Intersect.
7.8
Re-order members
a logical numbering system for joints and members. For instance use of the rotate
facility may cause members to be ordered in an inconsistent fashion with regard to the
Cartesian global axes. The Re-order facilities allow you to obtain a logical and
consistent numbering system for the structure.
Structure set
You may choose to re-order members only within a particular

Structure set. All, Current and all named structure sets are available
from a drop down selection list. The default is All. During reordering, only the members within the structure set are considered,
and these are re-assigned within that set as appropriate; no other
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members are affected.

Sort criteria
Five sort criteria; midpoint X, midpoint Y, midpoint Z, Material and

Section are presented, together with an 'Up' and 'Down' button.
Using these buttons you may prioritise the criteria by selecting them
and moving them up or down (for two-dimensional structures one
of these will not be required). For instance if midpoint X is the
highest priority (at the top of the list), the members will be
numbered in predominantly X order. If two member midpoints
have the same X co-ordinate (within tolerance), the next priority coordinate (say midpoint Z) will be compared.
Sort control
parameters
Sort Order
The first sort parameter is the Sort Order that can be either
each sort criterion is sorted within itself.
Tolerance
two midpoints are considered to have the same co-ordinate in one
axis. It may be different for each axis.
re-ordered.
7.9
Re-order member
ends
a logical numbering system for joints and members. For instance use of the mirror
facility may cause some members to be numbered from left to right and others from
right to left. The Re-order facilities allow you to obtain a logical and consistent
numbering system for the structure
This option enables you to ensure that all members have a consistent orientation, so
that, for example, all columns have End1 at the bottom and End2 at the top (i.e. the
local member x axis is pointing vertically upwards). Select the members to be reordered in the usual way and pick Re-order End1/End2 to define the controlling
parameters.
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Structure set
You may choose to re-order member ends only within a particular

Structure set. All, Current and all named structure sets are available
from a drop down selection list. The default is All.
Sort criteria
Three sort criteria, X Co-ordinate, Y Co-ordinate and Z Co-ordinate

are presented, together with an 'Up' and 'Down' button. Using these
buttons you may prioritise the criteria by selecting them and moving
them up or down (for two-dimensional structures one of these will
not be required). For instance if X is the highest priority (at the top
of the list), the members will aligned predominantly in the X
direction. If two member ends have the same X co-ordinate (within
tolerance), the next priority co-ordinate (say Z) will be compared.
Sort control
parameters
Sort Order
The first sort parameter is the Sort Order that can be either
each sort criterion is sorted within itself. For instance, if ascending
sort order is chosen for the X co-ordinate, then member x axes will
point in the positive general global X direction.
Tolerance
two end joints are considered to have the same co-ordinate in one
axis. It may be different for each axis.
re-ordered.
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7.10
Delete results
Use this option to delete the results of the current job to reduce the size of the data
file. This is useful when large jobs are required to be saved onto disk for backup.
The results are easily recoverable by simply analysing the job.
7.11
Flip axes
Please note that this option is for use with files created in SuperSTRESS Version 3
and earlier. Do not use this option in any other circumstances.
This option will flip the global axes of your structure 90 degrees anti-clockwise about
the X-axis and then close the job down. This will be the same operation as rotating
the structure 90 degrees clockwise about the X-axis with one subtle difference: the
loading that is defined as global will follow the structure and be in the correct position
in relation to it.
This option can be utilised in many different ways, including:
If you have a H-LOAD Space Frame structure which was created in an earlier
version of SuperSTRESS (it will have been created with the XZ plane as the
major plane rather than the XY plane), then this option can be used to rotate
the structure and its loads so that it returns to the 'normal' rotation, i.e. with
XY as the major plane. To do this you would need to perform the Flip Axes
operation three times.
If you do not use the direct link to take your Space Frame model to H-LOAD,
SuperSTRESS will not automatically adjust for the difference in Global
systems between SuperSTRESS version 3 and H-LOAD for this structure
type. Therefore, you can use this option to rotate the structure. This will save
and close the job after rotating the Global axes to the correct format for HLOAD. When you now open the job in H-LOAD the correct orientation will
be applied for you to continue modelling.
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8.
OPTIONS
Options
The SuperSTRESS options in SuperSUITE are those that are specific to

SuperSTRESS and not shared by other modules.
The options available are:
Graphics
Drawing
Units and formats
Pens
Fonts
Area loading
Analysis
SS-SURF
Wood-Armer
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8.1
OPTIONS
Graphics
Graphics settings covers those aspects of a graphical view which are stored with the
job. Parameters which are not stored with the job and are specific to a particular view
are accessible in the properties window of the graphical view.
Support default
size (mm)
The global joint supports are drawn diagrammatically to indicate

the restraint condition in each of the possible six degrees of
freedom. The value specified relates to the size that the support
will be drawn on the default view.
Support cut-off
size (mm)
If scaled supports have been requested then there will be a size

below which they will be impossible to interpret. It would be
wasteful to continue drawing the diagram under these conditions.
Below the cut-off size the supports are represented by a cross
rather than by the full diagram.
Scale supports
The support size is specified in mm and is related to the default

view. If the 'Scale supports' check box is ticked, then, as the
structure is scaled up and down, the supports are scaled up and
down as well. As the structure gets enlarged, so does the
representation of the support. If the check box is not ticked, then
the supports will remain at the default size.
Joint size (mm)
Joints in graphics are always represented as a square of constant

size, irrespective of scale and structure orientation. The size of
the square is set here as a value in millimetres.
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Structure limit The length of the arrow drawn on the graphical view to represent
arrow size (mm) support and member limits is configurable. It is defined in
millimetres.
Annotate
member axes
The member axes orientation can be plotted on each member; the

x-axis will be along the member and the y and z-axes will be
perpendicular to it. On the plot the y-axis will be drawn twice
the length of the z-axis, enabling you to distinguish between the
two. If the 'Annotate member axes' check box is ticked, the
letters x, y and z will be added to the axes to help identification.
Hatching
If ticked, the loads and moment / force results envelopes will be

hatched. Under some circumstances, in the interests of clarity or
speed, you may prefer to suppress the hatching by unticking the
check box. Note that the deflections will never be hatched.
Load area
shading
A slider to control the intensity of shading used for load areas.

Move the slider to the left for low intensity (L) and to the right
for high intensity (H).
Area load
shading
A slider to control the intensity of shading used for area loads.

Move the slider to the left for low intensity (L) and to the right
for high intensity (H).
Force Diagram When plotted, the member force diagrams can be displayed and
Columns / Rows printed in a tiled fashion. This setting controls the number of
diagrams across the page or screen (columns), and the number
down (rows). Diagrams are plotted in order across each row in
turn, starting at the top.
Force Diagram
Hatching
If ticked, the member force diagram result plots will be hatched.

Under some circumstances, in the interests of clarity or speed,
you may prefer to suppress the hatching by unticking the check
box. Note that this option is independent of the main graphics
hatching option described above
Results
Annotation
Max values
/ End values
If ticked these will determine what values are annotated when

result labels are selected under properties. Max values will
annotate both the largest positive and the largest negative value
(where they exist) within each member. End values will annotate
the values at member ends only. Annotation labels will be
produced for each currently selected loadcase, so to avoid
overwriting it may be best to select an envelope of loadcases for
annotation - see Properties / Results Graphics.
If results annotation is requested for deflections then the values
shown will relate to the vector global displacements for the
individual selected loadcase(s) and not to the envelope of
deflections.
Display All / Top These radio buttons determine whether either all values are
labelled or only values within a certain range. For instance, if
% Only
Top 20% Only is selected, this will label only those values that
are greater than or equal to 80% of the maximum value anywhere
within the currently plotted Structure Set.
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8.2
OPTIONS
Drawing
This option enables you to set the parameters that control the behaviour of the
graphical modelling options. The merge joints and merge member options can also
be set so that the merge is done automatically during the relevant drawing operation.
Merge joints
Certain operations that create new joints can be made to check if

a joint already exists at the proposed location and then use that
joint instead of generating a new one. This prevents the
undesired duplication of joints, but will slow down those
operations while the check is carried out. Tick the 'Merge joint'
check box if you want joints to be merged in this way.
Merge members This is similar to the merge joints option and comes into effect
when a new member would be created between the same two
joints as an existing member.
Merge joint
tolerance (mm)
8.3
Units and formats
This tolerance is used during the merge joint check when

comparing two co-ordinates. If the difference between the values
is less than the tolerance then they are deemed to be equal and if
the merge joints check box is ticked, a new joint will not be
created. The tolerance is measured in internal units (mm).
For all of the standard systems, each item of input or output that can be given
different units is listed with the default units shown against each.
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The different standard unit systems may be selected from the drop down list at the top
of the dialog.
A set of Custom units can be created from one of the standard systems by changing
individual items. These non-standard unit systems are stored with each job so that
different jobs may have individual units systems. The default custom units system
contains mixed units that are suitable for general structures. For instance, bending
moments are in kNm and stresses in N/mm2.
The units facility may be used at any time. For instance, you may have the units for
point load force set as kN, but wish to enter the loads in tonnes because you have
received a schedule of loads in those units. Change the point load unit to tonnes,
enter the loads, and then change back to kN. SuperSTRESS will convert all the load
values automatically.
Each item of input and output may have its units changed by clicking on the units
field to the right of the item in the dialog. This produces a drop down list from which
you may choose a suitable unit. The list for material density is shown below.
Similarly the format for any of the data items may be changed. The current format for
each item is shown to the right of the units. These can be changed by picking in the
relevant field to produce a drop down list of available formats.
The format indicates the number of places after the decimal point. Note that '0' will
produce an integer number with the decimal point suppressed.
Within SuperSTRESS, influence surface values are calculated and stored in internal
units that are always consistent. It is your responsibility to ensure that the units are
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appropriate to the loading to be applied. For instance, if you are going to apply loads
expressed in kN, then you should ensure that the influence line values for moment for
example, are expressed in kNm/kN, and NOT kNm/N.
8.4
Pens
This option enables you to configure the screen and printer colours and printer line
thickness. The screen line thickness is constant and cannot be changed. All the
various items of the SuperSTRESS graphics view can be allocated colours from the
palette.
A list is displayed of the various items. If you pick on any item a sample of the item's
current colour will be displayed both as text and as a line. If you wish to change the
colour of an item, pick the change button and a typical Windows colour palette
selection and customisation window will be displayed for your use.
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8.5
OPTIONS
Fonts
This option enables you to configure the screen fonts. All the various items of the
SuperSTRESS graphics view can be allocated fonts.
A list is displayed of the various items. If you pick on any item a sample of the item's
current font will be displayed as upper and lower case text. If you wish to change the
font of an item, pick the change button and a typical Windows font selection and
customisation window will be displayed for your use.
8.6
Area loading
Max interval for Controls the spacing of the distributed loads along the member.
When area loading is applied, the load is distributed to the
member loads
members through a process called dispersion. This results in a
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set of discrete member varying loads along the members in the
load area. The maximum length of these varying loads is
controlled by this setting. The actual spacing for each member is
determined by dividing its length by this setting and rounding up
to the nearest integer.
For example, if the length of the member is 3425mm and the
spacing setting is 225mm then the number of intervals used is
3425 / 225 = 15.22, which is rounded up to 16. The length of
each member varying load on this member would then be 3425 /
16 = 214.06mm. The load length and number of loads varies
with the length of each member.
The default is 250mm.
Max load pt
spacing for area
loads
Controls the spacing of the point loads that the area load is
decomposed into. See SuperSTRESS area load translation. This
happens before these loads are dispersed to the members.
The translation splits each ring of members within the load area
into triangles, then turns the area load within each triangle into a
number of discrete point loads over the triangle. This setting
controls the spacing of these point loads over the sides of each
triangle and consequently within each triangle.
The actual spacing on each side of a triangle is determined by
dividing the longest side by this setting and rounding up to the
nearest integer. For example, if the length of the longest side is
2.750mm and the spacing setting is 200 mm then the number of
intervals used is 2750 / 200 = 13.75, which is rounded up to 14.
The spacing of these intervals would then be 2750 / 14 =
196.43mm.
Warning: setting a low value for this spacing will slow down the
operation of the program.
The default is 250mm.
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8.7
Analysis
OPTIONS
The analysis settings are available from the Analysis tab on the Settings tabbed dialog
box.
A number of settings relating to the analysis are configurable.

Save stiffness
matrix
If ticked, the decomposed stiffness matrix will be saved after a

successful analysis and re-used for the next analysis providing
that only the load data has been edited. If any other data has
been changed then the matrix will be discarded and will have to
be built and decomposed again. Re-use of the matrix can save
time if repeated modification of the loading is necessary.
Note that the decomposed stiffness matrix will never be saved or
re-used if the model has any support or member limits defined,
as it may be different for every loadcase.
Recombine
loadcases
If, after a successful analysis, only the combination loadcases

have been edited then it is possible to regenerate the combination
results from the existing basic loadcase results. This
recombination of loadcases can be considerably faster than reanalysing the structure from scratch. If ticked then this feature
will be enabled.
Note that the combinations can not be recombined if the model
includes support or member limits, as each combination has to be
analysed individually with its own matrix.
Automatic
equilibrium
check
If ticked, the equilibrium check will be run immediately after

each analysis. If not ticked, then by selecting 'Equilibrium check'
from the Analysis menu on the main menu bar, you may still run
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the equilibrium check at any time following a successful
analysis.
Equilibrium
check tolerance
%
Whether the equilibrium check is displayed automatically or by

selection, the error is measured using this setting. The error is
calculated based on the difference between the sum of the forces
and the sum of the reactions for each degree of freedom (forces
in global X, Y and Z; moments about global X, Y and Z, as
appropriate to the structure type). This difference is then
expressed as a percentage of the sum of the forces. Where this
error is greater than the tolerance entered here, the Equilibrium
Check dialog will be displayed automatically following analysis
(if the 'Automatic equilibrium check' check box above is ticked).
If the error is greater than the tolerance, but the sum of forces for
that degree of freedom is zero, then the error is expressed as
100%. The default tolerance is 0.1%.
Interrupt
frequency
The analysis can be interrupted while it is in progress. (You may

realise that you have missed out a loadcase or don't have time to
wait for it to complete.) The number entered here is a measure of
how often SuperSTRESS checks to see if you have made an
interruption. The value depends on a number of factors, and
should be adjusted up or down according to experience.
Maximum cycles To avoid possibly endless cycles during the iterations, this value
sets the limit for the maximum number of iterations to take place.
Trace level
During iterative analysis a window showing a trace of the

analysis as it progresses may be displayed. The options are:
No trace output
Summary output
Detailed output.
To print the contents of the window, right click, pick select all,
and choose one of the standard Windows print options.
Large
displacements
If large displacement analysis is required, then tick this check

box. An iterative method is used in SuperSTRESS for non-linear
analysis and the settings that control the iteration and
convergence are described below.
Load increments For the large displacement analysis, each loadcase is divided into
the number of increments specified here, and the increments of
load applied successively.
Convergence
tolerance
(mm)
During the series of analyses for each load increment, the

displacements are added back onto the original geometry before
each analysis. The cycle is complete when the maximum
difference in displacement between two successive analyses is
less than this value.
Max. deflection This value is set to impose a maximum deflection. The analysis
will be stopped if this value is reached to avoid excessive
(mm)
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deflection.
Remove:
One per cycle
Top nn%
With member limits or support limits specified, this parameter

governs which members or supports are removed between
successive analyses. Specifying 'one per cycle' means that either
the tension-only member with the largest compression force or
the compression-only member with the largest tension force is
removed, whichever is the largest absolute value. A similar rule
is applied to positive and negative support limits. This option is
comparatively slow, but should produce convergence in most
cases.
With 'Top nn%' specified, the maximum value to be removed is
found as above, but then all other members or supports within
nn% of the maximum are removed as well. This can be used to
speed up the iteration process, but large values could lead to lack
of convergence.
8.8
Support
tolerance (N)
When deciding if an individual support is a candidate for

removal during a particular analysis cycle, this tolerance may be
applied to help the analysis converge. For instance if the
tolerance was 1000N, no supports with a force of less than
1000N in the limited direction would be removed.
Member
tolerance (N)
When deciding if an individual member is a candidate for

removal during a particular analysis cycle, this tolerance may be
applied to help the analysis converge. For instance if the
tolerance was 1000N no members with a force of less than
1000N in the limited direction would be removed.
SS-SURF
There are currently no SS-SURF options available.
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9.
Analysis
9.1
Analysis overview
ANALYSIS
There are two options available from the Analysis pull-down menu.
Loadcases
This allows you to specify which loadcases will be analysed for nonlinear analysis (large displacements or structures with member limits
or support limits).
Analyse
The structure is analysed using whatever analysis settings are

currently active. See Options for more details.
As a quality assurance measure, results will not be available once the structure has
been edited. This is a deliberately severe restriction, to prevent input data and results
that are not compatible being in the same file.
The matrix file, if stored, will not be deleted immediately. If your editing is restricted
to the loadcases then it is not deleted and can be re-used automatically during the next
analysis. This re-use of the stiffness matrix can save a considerable amount of time.
To make use of this feature you must switch the Tools/Options/Analysis/Save
stiffness matrix option ON.
Similarly, if your editing is restricted to the combination loadcases then the basic
loadcase results from a previous analysis can be re-used to generate the edited
combinations. Again, re-combining the combinations can make a second analysis
much quicker.
To make use of this feature you must tick the
Data/Settings/Analysis/Re-combine loadcases option.
Once the appropriate settings are configured, SuperSTRESS will decide automatically
whether the matrix can be re-used or whether the combinations can be re-combined,
based on the time/date stamps stored in the input and results files.
9.2
Analysis loadcases
This facility allows you to specify which loadcases will be analysed.

Only structures with a large displacement analysis setting or with member limits or
support limits can have combination loadcases individually selected for analysis
where the referenced basic loadcases are not also selected.
When the OK button is picked, all previous analysis results will be lost. A subsequent
analysis will then only provide results for the most recently selected loadcases. To
avoid losing previous analyses, pick 'Cancel' or close the dialog window with the
Close button.
Choosing this option displays a selection list of existing loadcases for analysis. If you
wish to change the selected loadcases pick on the loadcase entry. This field is a
toggle field and each time you pick it, it changes from selected (highlighted) to
deselected. The 'Select All' and 'Deselect All' buttons provide shortcut selection
methods, as well as use of the shift key to select all entries between selected entries,
and the control key to select individual entries without deselecting others.
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ANALYSIS
The analysis status of loadcases is represented by coloured icons next to the loadcase
names (and also in Graphics / Properties / Loadcases ). The meaning of the icons is
given in an analysis loadcase key. A solid green circle indicates a loadcase that has
been analysed. A solid red circle indicates a loadcase that has not been analysed.
Note that the icon preceding a loadcase will not change until after the OK button is
pressed, when all loadcases will revert to 'not analysed', and after the analysis has
taken place, when the selected loadcases are flagged as analysed.
Before 'OK'
After 'OK', before

analysis
After analysis
9.3
Analyse
When you elect to analyse, the progress of the job - reading and verifying data,
forming the stiffness matrix etc. is displayed on screen in a pop-up window with
progress indicators showing the proportion of each task achieved. For most jobs, the
pop-up will only appear for a few seconds, but for large jobs (especially non-linear
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ANALYSIS
ones) this provides a useful estimate of the time remaining to completion. Each
indicator bar represents 100% completion for that activity.
The analysis can be interrupted while it is in progress. (You may realise that you
have missed out a loadcase or don't have time to wait for it to complete.) Press the
Cancel button and a dialog window will appear with the following options:
Yes
The analysis will terminate and you will be returned to the previously
active window. There will be no results.
No
The analysis will resume from the point at which you interrupted it.
Following a successful analysis the results will automatically be stored on disk for
subsequent reports and plotting. If errors are detected in the data then the relevant
error messages will be displayed in an Analysis Errors window, from where they may
be sent to a printer or disk file if required. A list of the possible error messages can be
found in a following topic.
Other types of error associated with ill-conditioning or rounding may also occur.
Details of these are given in the following Sections.
9.4
Data consistency
checks
The interactive input routines check the data for consistency as it is entered and trap
any errors. However, subsequent editing can introduce errors that are not always
detected. Any such errors or omissions will be detected during the analysis.
SuperSTRESS will then terminate the analysis and display relevant messages in an
Analysis Errors window, from where they may be sent to a printer or disk file as
required.
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ANALYSIS
A list of the possible error messages can be found in the Analysis Error Messages
section.
Other types of error associated with ill-conditioning or rounding may also occur.
Details of these are given in the following topics.
9.5
Method of analysis
Linear Analysis
SuperSTRESS uses the 'stiffness method' of analysis in which the displacements of
the joints are considered to be the basic unknowns. The four main stages in the
analysis are as follows:
With the structure locked solid at all joints, for each joint in turn and each possible
direction of movement, give a unit displacement and compute the resulting force by
applying slope deflection equations to each of the members framing into the joint.
These forces per unit displacement can then be used to build the 'structure stiffness
matrix'. Shear deformations (the effects of which are significant in short span beams
and at haunches) are rigorously taken into account.
Again with the structure locked solid, compute fixed end forces for each member due
to loads on the member and add them to the joint loads to build the 'combined joint
load vector'.
Solve the matrix equations:
[Combined joint load vector] = [stiffness matrix] x [displacements]
to yield displacements at all joints in each possible direction of movement.
Substituting these displacements in the slope deflection equations gives the end forces
in each member and from these the internal forces and displacements together with
the support reactions can be found.
9.6
Non-linear analysis
Tension-only members or One-way supports

To help identify tension-only and compression-only members a 't' or 'c' is added after
the member number in the tool tip query.
Note that loads on tension-only members should be avoided, because the loading may
cause the axial forces at the two ends of a member to be different. In some
circumstances, this can result in the analysis not converging. Loads such as selfweight can be replaced by loads at joints. Loads such as temperature loads can cause
more difficulty and you may wish to consider replacing the tension-only member with
an ordinary member subject to a pre-strain (load type Member Strain). The member
will not then act in a non-linear way when loaded.
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Analysis of structures that include support or member limits requires an iterative

approach to the analysis. A cycle of analyses is made for each loadcase. After each
cycle all limited supports and members are checked to ensure that the reactions or
axial forces are acceptable. If a support or member is found to be loaded outside its
limit then it becomes a candidate for removal before the structure is re-analysed.
A parameter under Analysis settings governs which members or supports are removed
between successive analyses. Specifying 'one per cycle' means that either the tensiononly member with the largest compression force or the compression-only member
with the largest tension force is removed, whichever is the largest absolute value. A
similar rule is applied to positive and negative support limits. This option is
comparatively slow, but should produce convergence in most cases.
With 'Top nn%' specified, the maximum value to be removed is found as above, but
then all other candidate members or supports within nn% of the maximum are
removed as well. This can be used to speed up the iteration process, but large values
could lead to lack of convergence.
At each cycle when members or supports are removed, all supports or members that
have previously been removed are also checked to see whether the criteria for their
removal are still valid, and if not they are re-inserted into the structural model. When
'one per cycle' is specified, only one (if any) support or member is re-inserted in each
cycle.
When deciding if an individual member or support is a candidate for removal during a
particular analysis cycle, a tolerance may be applied to help the analysis converge
(see Analysis settings). For instance if the tolerance was 1000N, no supports with a
force of less than 1000N in the limited direction would be removed.
If there are no supports or members to be removed then the loadcase analysis is
complete and SuperSTRESS will proceed to the next loadcase. Note that, because of
the different loading regimes, each loadcase may require the removal of different
members, thus leading to a different stiffness matrix. The option to save and re-use
the stiffness matrix therefore becomes invalid.
During iterative analysis a window showing a trace of the analysis as it progresses

may be displayed according to the Trace level option selected under Analysis settings.
The options are:
No trace output
Summary output
Detailed output
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To print the contents of the window, right click, pick select all, and choose one of the
standard Windows print options.
A maximum cycles option, also under Analysis settings will halt the analysis if
convergence has not been reached within the specified maximum.
The reactions and the member end forces for supports and members that have been
removed will be printed as zero in the tabulated output, and displayed as zero in the
graphical output.
Large displacements
The basic feature of a structure having geometric non-linearity such as with large
displacements is that the structure is in equilibrium with the deformed geometry that
is not known in advance. In a linear analysis, deformations are ignored as being too
small to be significant.
An iterative method is used in SuperSTRESS to obtain the unknown deformation. At
first, a certain level of loading is applied to the structure, and a deformation is
obtained. The structural geometry is then modified based on the deformed shape.
The next iteration is then carried out under the same loading but with respect to the
new geometry. Convergence is said to be achieved when the maximum difference
between deformations of two successive iterations is less than a small positive real
number - the Convergence Tolerance.
In each loadcase, the total loading can be applied incrementally depending on the
setting of Load Increments. The magnitude of each loading increment is then:
Total Loading / Load Increment.
In each increment, convergence must be achieved before the next increment is
applied.
During iterative analysis a window showing a trace of the analysis as it progresses
may be displayed according to the Trace level option selected under Analysis settings.
The options are:
No trace output
Summary output
Detailed output
To print the contents of the window, right click, pick select all, and choose one of the
standard Windows print options.
The analysis fails if either of two limits is exceeded, Number of Cycles and
Maximum deflection. The first is set to avoid possibly endless cycles during the
iterations, the second to stop the analysis when the structure has deformed
excessively.
All four of the above parameters are set under Tools / Options / Analysis. Care
should be taken in choosing appropriate values for the parameters to ensure correct
convergence. In general the Convergence Tolerance value is the most critical, and it
is recommended that at least two analysis runs are carried out with alternative values,
to form a judgement of the solution accuracy. Another important influence is the
division of members into sub-members to more accurately model the deformation
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along the member length. A division into five appears to produce good results in
most cases.
It should be noted that large displacement analysis cannot be applied to Grid Frames
due to the incompatibility of the structural geometry.
9.7
Influence lines and

surfaces
An influence line shows the effect on a parameter (eg a bending moment) at a specific
position caused by a load applied at various points on a structure. Influence lines may
be generated for actual loading or for unit loads. The latter are of more general scope
since they allow greater flexibility and they are used by SuperSTRESS. Once an
influence line has been generated for unit loading, then any actual loading can be
catered for by multiplying the load intensity by the influence line value at the load
position. SuperSTRESS can generate these lines automatically, or you can use the
member distortion load type to produce effects that give the influence line as the
displaced shape of the structure.
SuperSTRESS allows the automatic generation of influence lines and surfaces for all
structure types. For plane frames and trusses, these are normally referred to as
influence lines, while for grid frames, space trusses and space frames they are
normally referred to as influence surfaces.
The influence surface controls are available from the Tools menu and also via the
Explorer.
Within SuperSTRESS influence surface values are calculated and stored in internal
units that are always consistent. It is your responsibility to ensure that the units you
use for tabular or graphical output are appropriate to the loading to be applied. For
instance, if you are going to apply loads expressed in kN, then you should ensure that
the influence line values for moment for example, are expressed in kNm/kN, and
NOT kNm/N.
The surfaces to be built are specified by their effects, either at joints or members. A
great many surfaces can be built at the same time using lists to specify the joints and
members where the effects are to be measured. It does not matter if some surfaces are
added later (if surface loadcases are not automatically deleted after use) because
SuperSTRESS will have carried out all the necessary analysis on the specified
structure set and so additional surfaces are processed very quickly.
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The Structure set specifies the extent of the structure for which influence lines are to
be generated. For instance, in a bridge deck with columns modelled in 3D, influence
lines may not be required for the supporting columns, even though they are taken into
account in the analysis. Structure sets must have been previously defined unless ALL
or CURRENT are used.
A global direction FX, FY or FZ must be given for the unit forces applied to produce
the influence surface. Any loading subsequently applied to the structure using the
influence values must be in the same direction. Most loading is applied in the Z
direction, and this is the default.
During building of the influence surfaces, SuperSTRESS sets up a number of
temporary loadcases, each of which represents a single unit load at every joint in the
Structure set. If the 'Delete surface loadcases after use' box is ticked, then these
temporary basic loadcases will be automatically removed following generation.
The Joint effects produce influence surfaces for the displacements and rotations at the
listed joints. These are measured in the Global axes directions.
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ANALYSIS
The Supports effects produce influence surfaces for Reaction forces and moments at
the listed supports. Again these act in the Global directions. If any joints are listed in
the support section that are not supports, they will be ignored.
Member effects produce influence surfaces for forces and moments at the listed
Member End1's and End2's. Fx is an axial force. Fy and Fz are shear forces. Mx is a
torque. My and Mz are bending moments. These are all in the Member Axes
directions.
To create the influence surfaces, pick the build surface option from the Tools menu.
Following the necessary automatic analyses required, the influence surface icons will
be displayed in the Explorer.
If any data is subsequently changed such that the influence surfaces become invalid,
the icons will be displayed with a red cross through them to signify that. They may
be rebuilt at any time using the Build Surfaces option.
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Once created, influence surfaces can be displayed and printed in both tabular and
graphical format. From the context menu from any Surface, the following options
appear.
Facilities are available to filter the values using joint lists and sets, and there is control
over what constitutes the current surface set.
During graphical display, the Properties dialog box is extended to cover Surfaces to
enable you to select those surfaces you wish to view. Having selected which surfaces
to view, they are then switched on by ticking 'Influence Surfaces' under the results
tab.
Similarly the Properties / Scales tab is extended as follows
Both the scale and units for each parameter can be changed. The influence surface
values are calculated and stored in internal units that are always consistent. It is your
responsibility to ensure that the units are appropriate to the loading to be applied. For
instance, if you are going to apply loads expressed in kN, then you should ensure that
the influence line values for moment for example, are expressed in kNm/kN, and
NOT kNm/N.
9.8
Shear component of
deflection
The shear component of deflection is computed by integration of the shear force

diagram. This compares well with the shear deflections computed by 'exact' methods
for usual loadings and where bending deflection predominates. For very high point
loads near the supports some variation may be found with the 'exact' deflections
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computed by the analysis. The term 'exact' is used in the mathematical sense based on
the assumptions of linear elastic behaviour.
Note that the value of the modulus of rigidity is used in the calculation of the shear
deflection. It follows that if an inappropriate value of the modulus is used then the
calculated shear deflection in the members can be several magnitudes larger than the
deflections due to bending that can in turn result in some unexpected deflected
shapes.
9.9
Speed of solution
The speed of solution is dependent on the particular hardware on which

SuperSTRESS is being run, since the processor speed and disk access speeds vary
from computer to computer. Basically more conventional memory will mean quicker
operation and solution.
If SuperSTRESS is being run over a Network, the Working Folder should be set to a
temporary directory located on the local hard-drive. This will mean that, during
performing operations within SuperSTRESS, the computer is not required to look
over the network after each operation is performed.
9.10
Ill-conditioning
In general a set of equations for a structural model is well conditioned, having few
terms away from the leading diagonal and large terms on the diagonal. (In the jargon,
the matrix is symmetric, banded and positive definite.) You can therefore normally be
confident in the accuracy of any results obtained.
A set of equations may be said to be ill-conditioned when:
There are large differences in numerical value in the coefficients

Any of the diagonal terms are small
Any two or more equations have almost identical coefficients
Sometimes the ill-conditioning has a direct analogy in the structure:
Local mechanisms at a joint

Sub-frame mechanisms involving a group of members and joints
Multiple structures (with unconnected members)
Mixing members with very high and low stiffness in the same structure
To remedy the ill-conditioning problem is then either a question of correcting the

modelling error or of changing (usually simplifying) the structural model.
SuperSTRESS will usually pick up problems associated with local mechanisms and
produce a relevant error message . However, rounding errors may mean that the
mechanism is not detected and the symptoms of ill-conditioning will then become
apparent.
R K Livesley in 'Matrix Methods of Structural Analysis', Pergamon Press, gives a
figure of 1,000 for the relative axial stiffnesses of rolled steel joists in simple frames
before ill-conditioning becomes serious. In SuperSTRESS however, using double
precision real arithmetic throughout, noticeable problems are unlikely to arise before
the ratio is 1,000,000. Double precision real numbers are stored to an accuracy of 1516 significant figures.
There are other causes of error in calculations known as rounding or round-off errors,
which are simply dependent on the number of calculations performed. These are
unlikely to have an effect in practice unless you have several thousand joints.
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There are two main tests to check if the analysis has been subject to ill-conditioning.
Excessive
deflections
If the maximum deflection or rotation in the structure is much

larger than expected, this can be a sign of ill-conditioning. It is
always good practice to make a rough manual assessment of the
expected deflection before carrying out any computer analysis.
It does happen that an analysis may be subject to ill-conditioning
(as shown by this check) but still pass the equilibrium check (see
below). Any results produced must be classed as suspect in
these circumstances.
To find the maximum deflection of the structure, open the Joint
displacements table and right click in the table. Select
Properties. On the Filter tab, set List by to Loadcase,
Joint/Member list to ALL, tick the Envelope box and pick the
Max values radio button. On the Loadcases tab, pick the Select
All button.
Equilibrium
check
An equilibrium check may be displayed or printed. For the

equilibrium check display, see the following Topic. An
equilibrium check may also be printed in Reports, Support
Reactions. Note that the equilibrium check of total applied force
compared to total reactions is only printed if the Support
Reactions Table is part of a Report, and then only if the Structure
Set is set to ALL.
If any of the forces and reactions are not in balance then this is a
sign of ill-conditioning and the results will be suspect.
9.11
Multiple structures
SuperSTRESS cannot analyse a model that contains more than one structure. Every
joint must be connected by one or more members to all the other joints. If an analysis
fails with an error 1655 the most likely cause is the presence of more than one
structure in the model.
Multiple structures in the model can be difficult to find as they generally result from
joints that appear to be connected into a member but which are in reality only
positioned on the line of the member. Try the following methods:
Eliminate any unwanted duplicate joints using the Tools / merge option. Two joints
that appear to be one can be the root cause of multiple structures in a model.
Switch member labels on and redraw the view. Check that the member labels are
displayed centrally between what you think are the start and end joints of the
members. Any oddly positioned member labels (for instance one that lies on a joint)
could indicate that the member is not connected into the structure where you think it
is.
Use the Drawing / Query option to confirm the location of the members. If there are
several members instead of the expected one, the member numbers will be reported
instead of the expected member's details.
See also ill-conditioning.
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9.12
Equilibrium check
ANALYSIS
The settings which control the display of the equilibrium check are accessed in
Options / Analysis.
Note that the equilibrium check feature is not available if support or member limits
are enabled.
An equilibrium check may be displayed or printed.
display, see below.
For the equilibrium check
An equilibrium check may also be printed in Reports , Support Reactions . Note that
the equilibrium check of total applied force compared to total reactions is only printed
if the Support Reactions Table is part of a Report, and then only if the Structure Set is
set to ALL.
If any of the forces and reactions are not in balance then this is a sign of illconditioning and the results will be suspect.
The error is calculated based on the difference between the sum of the forces and the
sum of the reactions for each degree of freedom (forces in global X, Y and Z;
moments about global X, Y and Z, as appropriate to the structure type). This
difference is then expressed as a percentage of the sum of the forces. Where this error
is greater than the maximum error (specified as 'Equilibrium check tolerance %' in
Analysis options ), the Equilibrium Check dialog will be displayed automatically
following analysis (if the 'Automatic equilibrium check' check box is ticked in
analysis options). If the error is greater than the tolerance, but the sum of forces for
that degree of freedom is zero, then the error is expressed as 100%. The default
tolerance is 0.1%.
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The dialog may also be displayed at any time when analysis results are available by
picking Equilibrium Check from the Analysis main menu.
The dialog displays the following items:
a list box containing the reference and name of the filtered loadcases. Only
one of these must be selected for display of the error details.
a group of radio buttons providing three loadcase filters (all unbalanced
loadcases, all basic and pattern loadcases, all loadcases). The default is all
basic and pattern loadcases.
the sum of the forces, the sum of the reactions and the percentage error (as
defined above) in the degrees of freedom relevant for the structure type, for
the loadcase currently selected in the list box.
If all the loadcases analyse within the acceptable error the following dialog will be
displayed.
9.13
Analysis error
messages
The following is a list of error messages that may be displayed after an unsuccessful
analysis complete with an explanation of their most likely cause.
Some messages contain one or more strings of asterisks. When the messages are
listed on screen after the analysis failure, these will be replaced by the number of the
item that originated the error.
175 ANALYSIS TERMINATED. ***** ERRORS
521 No loads defined. The structure cannot be analysed without any applied loads.
Enter loads using the Tables or Drawing options.
522 No supports defined. The structure must have some global joint supports. Enter
supports using the Tables or Drawing options.
523 Less than two joints defined. The structure cannot be analysed if it only has one
joint.
524 No members defined. The structure cannot be analysed if it does not have any
members.
526 Sections not defined.
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726 No sections defined. The structure cannot be analysed if no sections have been
defined. Enter the sections using the Tables option and ensure that all sections
referenced in the member table are properly defined.
728 Member file not found. The file (JOB.X06) containing the member data cannot
be found. This is highly unusual (the analysis should fail with error number 524
before raising this message) and may indicate a low-level disk access problem.
756 Joint supports file not found. The file (JOB.X05) containing the joint support
data cannot be found. This is highly unusual (the analysis should fail with error
number 522 before raising this message) and may indicate a low-level disk access
problem.
761 Joint no. *****. Support conditions not allowed. This is caused by the existence
of support data that is not relevant to the structure type being analysed. For example,
if support data is copied from a space frame to a plane frame then there may be
supports in the Y direction.
762 Cannot have negative values for springs.
763 Support *****. Joint is not supported in direction of limit.
811 Member no. *****. Release not allowed. This is caused by the existence of
release data that is not relevant to the structure type being analysed. For example, if
releases are copied from a space frame to a plane frame then there may be releases in
the Mz direction.
812 Member no. *****. Specified combination of releases not allowed. For a given
member the end releases cannot be such that the member can detach itself from the
structure. For example, if Fx is released at both ends then the member is free to fly
like an arrow. Similarly, if Mx is released at both ends the member can spin about its
longitudinal axis.
861 Member no. *****. Joint ***** is undefined. A member makes reference to a
joint that is undefined.
862 Member no. *****. Material ***** is undefined. A member makes reference to
a material that is undefined.
863 Member no. *****. Section ***** is undefined. A member makes reference to
a section that is undefined.
926 Materials file not found. The file (JOB.X03) containing the material properties
data cannot be found. This is highly unusual and may indicate a low-level disk access
problem.
927 Sections file not found. The file (JOB.X04) containing the sections data cannot
be found. This is highly unusual and may indicate a low-level disk access problem.
1005 Out of disk space. Job needs ***** KB to analyse. There is insufficient disk
space to analyse the job. The value reported in place of the asterisks is the number of
kilobytes required for the particular stage of the analysis at which the job failed.
Several of the analysis stages set up new permanent and temporary files. The
available space is checked before proceeding with the stage, and if the check fails
then this message is raised. If you are unable to clear enough disk space, then make
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sure that Save stiffness matrix is switched off in analysis options, as this will use a
considerable amount of space.
1266 Section type ***** has zero width or depth. A geometrical member type has
been defined with zero or negative width or depth. Correct this in the sections table.
1267 Section type ***** has negative thickness. A geometrical member type has
been defined with negative thickness (Ty > Dy or Tz > Dz). Correct this in Tables /
Sections.
1268 Variable section type ***** references an undefined section type. A Taper or
Haunch section type has been defined which references an undefined section type.
Correct this in Tables / Sections.
1269 Tapered section type ***** end profiles do not match. The section types at
each end of a tapered member must be previously defined steel sections with similar
profiles.
1270 Variable section type *****. profile not allowed. A haunch member type must
reference previously defined geometric 'I' sections.
1271 Variable section type ***** must not reference itself. A variable section type is
not allowed to reference itself. This situation is prevented in the normal course of
input and editing but can be introduced by using the copy or import options.
1272 Steel tables not installed.
1273 Steel sections not defined in current tables. Section *****.
1320 Section not implemented for space frame / truss, Section type *****. A
geometric L section is not allowed in a space frame or truss. The properties for the
section must be calculated and the section type defined as an equivalent general
section.
1321 Section type *****, Ax not set. A general section type has been defined with
negative or zero sectional area (Ax). This parameter is required for all structure types
with the exception of the grid frame.
1322 Section type *****, Ix not set. A general section type has been defined with
negative or zero torsional constant (Ix). This parameter is required for grid frames
and space frames.
1323 Section type *****, Iy not set. A general section type has been defined with
negative or zero second moment of area about the local member y-axis. This
parameter is required for plane frames, grid frames and space frames.
1324 Section type *****. Iz not set. A general section type has been defined with
negative or zero second moment of area about the local member z-axis. This
parameter is only required for space frames.
1365 Young's modulus not set for member *****. Each member references a
material type. If the value of Young's modulus for that material type is negative or
zero then this message will be raised.
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1370 Invalid section properties for Section type *****. A general section type has
been defined with dimensions that make it impossible to calculate valid section
properties.
1380 Joint ***** isolated. The specified joint is not connected to any members. The
analysis is unable to deal with this circumstance. Either delete the isolated joint or
connect it into the structure.
1385 Modulus of rigidity not set for member *****. Each member references a
material type. If the value of the modulus of rigidity for that material type is negative
or zero, and is required by the structure type, then this message will be raised.
1400 Member *****. Length must be greater than zero. A member has zero length.
This is either because the joint number at End1 is equal to the joint number at End2,
or the joints at End1 and End2 have the same co-ordinates. Check the specified
member in the Tables / Members option. If the joint numbers at each end are
different then use the Tools / Merge option to check for and remove duplicated joints.
1405 More than 20 members frame to joint *****. Unable to continue. A maximum
of twenty members are allowed to frame into any one joint. This limitation is not
onerous when the practical implications of such an arrangement are considered. If the
situation appears unavoidable then try remodelling the connection with a number of
joints.
1606 Undefined joint or member (loadcase *****, entry *****). A basic loadcase
entry has referenced a member or joint that does not exist. Check the specified basic
loadcase entry.
1611 Load files not found. The files (JOB.X07, JOB.X08) containing the basic load
data cannot be found. This is highly unusual (the analysis should fail with error
number 521 before raising this message) and may indicate a low-level disk access
problem.
1616 Load not acceptable in this direction (loadcase *****, entry *****). A basic
loadcase entry has been applied to the structure in a direction that is invalid given the
structure type. This situation can not occur during the normal course of input and
editing but can be introduced by copying the loadcase entries from another job of a
different type.
1621 Displaced joint must be supported (loadcase *****, entry *****). A displaced
joint must be rigidly supported in the direction of the displacement. For example, a
sinking support in a plane frame must be rigidly supported in the FZ direction.
1651 Mechanism failure in joint ***** of structure. The analysis has failed due to a
local or global mechanism.
1652 Loadcase ***** does not converge.
1655 Joint ***** isolated from structure. The listed joint is part of an isolated substructure and the model can not be analysed. See multiple structures.
1656 JD load not allowed on limited support (loadcase *****, entry *****).
1660 Limiting number of iterations exceeded (loadcase *****).
1661 Maximum displacement exceeded (loadcase *****).
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1716 Load position outside member (loadcase *****, entry *****). A basic loadcase
member load entry has been specified such that part or all of the load lies off the
member.
1717 Maximum member distortion exceeded (loadcase *****).
1718 Maximum member distortion due to temperature load exceeded (loadcase
*****, entry *****).
1721 Load data not acceptable (loadcase *****, entry *****). A basic loadcase
member load entry contains invalid parameters. This message covers a number of
errors related to the specification of the member load entry. For example, P1=P2=0,
LB<=LA or a concentrated load specified as acting in the projected axis.
1725 Loaded member must have stiffness. Member number *****.
1726 Loaded member must have stiffness (loadcase *****, entry *****). A basic
loadcase entry references a member whose section properties provide a stiffness that
is negative or zero in the relevant load direction. Check the relevant section type and
material type.
1730 Stiffness for member ***** not set. A member has a calculated stiffness of less
than or equal to zero. Check the relevant section type and material type.
1761 CTE not set for member *****. The coefficient of thermal expansion has not
been set for a member to which a temperature load has been applied. Check the
relevant material type.
1763 DENSITY not set for member *****. The density has not been set for a
member to which a self weight load has been applied. Check the relevant material
type.
1771 Temperature changes not allowed on grid (loadcase *****, entry *****). A
temperature change load induces a change of length in the member to which it is
applied. This type of load is invalid in a grid frame as only loads perpendicular to the
plane of the structure are considered. Enter the structure as a space frame if you need
to consider such effects.
1775 Member length coefficients not relevant to grid.
1776 Length coefficients not allowed on grid (loadcase *****, entry *****). A
length coefficient load induces a change of length in the member to which it is
applied. This type of load is invalid in a grid frame as only loads perpendicular to the
plane of the structure are considered. Enter the structure as a space frame if you need
to consider such effects.
1785 Loadcase not previously defined (combination *****, entry *****). A
combination loadcase entry references an undefined loadcase. All references are
checked during input, but subsequent editing of the load tables can introduce
inconsistencies such as this.
1786 Loadcase not previously defined (pattern *****, entry *****). A pattern
loadcase entry references an undefined basic loadcase. All references are checked
during input, but subsequent editing of the load tables can introduce inconsistencies
such as this.
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ANALYSIS
1790 WARNING load multiplying factor outside range -10 to +10.

1795 Limiting number of member loads exceeded.
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10.
Output
10.1
Output overview
OUTPUT
The output options in SuperSTRESS can be divided into four main areas:
Tables: covering the display of the various input tables

Results: covering the display of the various results tables
Reports: presentation quality output of both tables and results
Graphics: printed output of a graphical window
For Tables, Results and Graphics, printed output is available via the Windows
standard File / Print option from the main menu bar or by inclusion in a Report.
Tables is a special case, since this also forms a major method of input for
SuperSTRESS. For further information on Tables, see the Tables topic. For
information on Results, Reports and printed Graphics, see the following topics.
You may produce a complete or partial set of printed output in any order, but it is
recommended that, in order to make it possible for other engineers to assess the
analysis, the following are produced.
10.2
Output reports
A complete set of tabular input data.

Diagrams of the structure showing
joint numbers
member numbers
loading
supports
Tabular output for each loadcase and / or envelopes of loadcases.
Graphical presentations of bending moments, shear forces and deflections,
if required.
Stresses, if required.
Detailed member summaries, if required.
SuperSTRESS output reports may be assembled using the Reports dialog or the
Reports Wizard.
In either case, you may customise the contents of your report to suit your
requirements. Once defined, Reports may be re-used for different analysis runs; the
structure of the Report stays the same, but the contents of the tables may vary.
There are two different types of report output from SuperSTRESS; output of input
tables and output of results.
These are covered in the following topics.
10.2.1
Report wizard
The SuperSTRESS Report Wizard forms one of the pages of the SuperSUITE Report
Wizard when the SuperSTRESS module is selected on the first page of the wizard.
The first page of the Report Wizard allows you to select those modules whose
Sections you wish to include in the report. If SuperSTRESS is selected then a
following page of the Wizard will apply to SuperSTRESS, as below.
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OUTPUT
The various Report Sections are displayed in two lists, input data and results.
Tick the check box next to each Section to include it in the report. The select all and
deselect all buttons can be used to make wholesale changes.
To the left of some of the check boxes is a '+' sign indicating that that Section has
properties (filters). When one of these Sections is selected the Properties button will
become undimmed and you may pick it to change the properties. This will display a
dialog allowing you to change the properties relevant to that Section. The properties
vary from Section to Section.
Alternatively, double click on the Section or one of its Properties in the list.
(Properties are displayed in the list if you click on the'+' sign to expand a Section.)
Click 'Back' to access a previous page, 'Next' to proceed to the next module, or
'Finish' if this is the last module in the Report.
10.2.2
SS-SURF report
wizard
The SS-SURF Report Wizard forms one of the pages of the SuperSUITE Report
Wizard when the SS-SURF module is selected on the first page of the wizard. The
first page of the Report Wizard allows you to select those modules whose Sections
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you wish to include in the report. If SS-SURF is selected then a following page of the
Wizard will apply to SS-SURF, as below.
The Report Section 'Surface Values' is displayed in the list area.

Tick the check box next to the Section to include it in the report. The select all and
deselect all buttons can be used to make wholesale changes.
To the left of the check box is a '+' sign indicating that the Section has properties
(filters). When the Section is selected the Properties button will become undimmed
and you may pick it to change the properties. This will display a dialog allowing you
to change the properties relevant to that Section.
Alternatively, double click on the Section or one of its Properties in the list.
(Properties are displayed in the list if you click on the'+' sign to expand the Section.)
Click 'Back' to access a previous page, 'Next' to proceed to the next module, or
'Finish' if this is the last module in the Report.
10.3
Output tables
10.3.1
Output of input
tables
The SuperSTRESS input tables may be displayed on screen or printed out in

conventional calculation sheet format either directly or as part of a Report. Reports
may be set up quickly using the Report Wizard.
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The contents of the tables may be changed using the Properties (right mouse click)
option for each table. For input tables, this allows you to change the structure set for
the table.
An example of each of the input table reports is shown in the following topics.
10.3.1.1 Job summary

output
This is an example of job summary output.
10.3.1.2 Materials table

output
This is an example of materials table output.
10.3.1.3 Sections table

output
This is an example of sections table output.
10.3.1.4 Joints table output
This is an example of joints table output.
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10.3.1.5 Supports table

output
This is an example of supports table output.
10.3.1.6 Support limits table

output
This is an example of support limits table output.
OUTPUT
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10.3.1.7 Members table

output
This is an example of members table output.
10.3.1.8 Releases table

output
This is an example of releases table output.
10.3.1.9 Member limits

table output
This is an example of member limits table output.
OUTPUT
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10.3.1.10 Load areas table

output
This is an example of member limits table output.
10.3.1.11 Loadcase titles

output
This is an example of loadcase titles output.
10.3.1.12 Loadcase entries

output
This is an example of loadcase entries output.
10.3.2
Following analysis, all the information necessary to tabulate the results of the analysis
are automatically stored on disk and remain available until the input data is edited or
until the Delete Results option is used.
Output of results
This option provides access to the input and results files and allows very selective
display of individual loadcases, loadcase envelopes and detailed member summaries.
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All results tables have similar features in common. These are properties, including
filters, loadcases and options.
10.3.3
Results table
operations
10.3.3.1 Results filters
Structure set
This gives you the choice of a previously defined structure set,

ALL, or the CURRENT set.
List by
Two options are available; listing by loadcase or by element. This

simply depends on whether you wish to, for instance, find the worst
values for each loadcase, or the worst values for each member.
Member / joint If ticked, then an additional filter is imposed on the structure set, so
that only the specified joints or members are included in the table.
lists
Section list
If ticked, then an additional filter is imposed on the structure set, so

that only members with the specified section type are included in
the table.
Material list
If ticked, then an additional filter is imposed on the structure set, so

that only members with the specified material type are included in
the table.
Envelope
If ticked, then results are not presented for each loadcase in turn,
but for the envelope of all specified loadcases. In the table, the
loadcase that produced the value displayed is identified.
For the Envelope option to be available, list by loadcase must be
selected, NOT list by element (see above). The full table max
values and min values options are then produced for the envelope
of the selected loadcases. This will produce at most two values for
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each table column, representing the largest negative and largest

positive values. However, if both extremes are positive or both
negative then only the larger will be produced.
With the max span forces table, the min values option is dimmed
with envelope selected because it is not available (it is logically
inconsistent to have a minimum value produced for the envelope of
maximum values).
Full table
If ticked, then all results (ie for all joints or all members in the
currently selected lists) are presented for the specified loadcases.
Note that ticking this option will automatically turn off the Max
and Min values options.
Max values
If ticked, then only the maximum (i.e. the greatest positive) values
for all joints or all members in the currently selected lists are
presented for the specified loadcases. Note that ticking this option
will automatically turn off the Full tables and Min values options.
Min values
If ticked, then only the minimum (i.e. the greatest negative) values
for all joints or all members in the currently selected lists are
presented for the specified loadcases. Note that the absolute value
of the minimum may be greater than the maximum. Also note that
ticking this option will automatically turn off the Full tables and
Max values options.
10.3.3.2 Results loadcases
These loadcases determine what values are included in the results tables. You may
pick a number of cases, which then become the CURRENT loadcase set, you may
simply accept the existing CURRENT loadcases set, or you may recall a previously
defined named loadcase set. In each case, all subsequent tables presented will only
contain information from the prescribed loadcases. On any printed reports the
loadcases which are included in the values shown are identified.
A colour key indicates which loadcases have been analysed (green) and which not
(red).
10.3.4
Results tables
There are five results tables options, and several have variations according to the type
of output (e.g. Moments or Forces) required.
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These are explained in the following topics.
10.3.4.1 Joint displacements
The joint displacement results table is simply a list of joints with the displacement in
the global axes and the rotation about the global axes for each.
You may use the filters and loadcases options (right-hand mouse button Context
menu) to obtain exactly the results you require.
Use Options / Units to change the units.
If you want to see displacements related to member axes, use the Maximum Span
Forces , Member Force Diagrams or Detailed Span Values facilities.
10.3.4.2 Support reactions
The support reactions results table is a list of supported joints only. For each support,
the reactive forces and moments in each global axis direction are given.
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Note that the equilibrium check of total applied force compared to total reactions is
not printed at the end of the table as it was in SuperSTRESS Version 3. This
summary is now only printed if the table is printed as part of a Report , and then only
if the Structure Set is set to ALL.
10.3.4.3 Member end forces
For Space Frames, two member end force results tables are available; Forces and
Moments. Use the tabs at the bottom of the table to switch between the two. For all
other structure types the member end forces are given in one table.
When preparing the end force maximum values table the sign of the moments at End1
of each member is reversed. This is, for example, so that a hogging moment at End1
may be readily compared with a hogging moment at End2. Therefore, if the final
maximum (or minimum) value results from a moment at End1 of a member then it
will be of a different sign from the corresponding value printed in the full table.
the positive z direction (the 'top'). For moments Mz, a hogging moment produces
tension in the side of the member in the positive y direction (the 'top').
In the case of torsion, a positive torque at End1 is a clockwise moment looking along
the member from End1 towards End2. A case of constant torsion will produce an
equal and opposite torque at End2.
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10.3.4.4 Member end

stresses
For Space Frame structures, two member end stress results tables are available;
Axial/Shear and Bending. Use the tabs at the bottom of the table to switch between
the two. For all other structure types the member end stresses are given in one table.
The stresses at each end of the member are calculated using the values of Cy and Cz
specified in the Sections table.
Note that torsional member stresses are never printed. This is because the calculation
of torsional stress is based on a complex theory which makes a number of
assumptions about the material, section and loading pattern. A simplistic solution to
the calculation can mask this underlying complexity from the engineer and provide
torsional stresses that are unlikely to be accurate. Refer to Roark's Formulas for
Stress and Strain for a detailed examination of the subject.
When preparing the end stresses maximum values table the sign of the bending
stresses at End1 of each member is reversed. This is, for example, so that a hogging
moment at End1 may be readily compared with a hogging moment at End2.
Therefore, if the final maximum (or minimum) value results from a bending stress at
End1 of a member then it will be of a different sign from the corresponding value
printed in the full table.
the positive z direction (the 'top'). For moments Mz, a hogging moment produces
tension in the side of the member in the positive y direction (the 'top').
You may use the filters and loadcases options (right-hand mouse button context
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10.3.4.5 Maximum span

forces
The maximum span force table will list a number of lines per member depending on
the structure type and the position of the maximum forces and deflections. There is a
maximum of four lines for each member axis of bending. Tables for plane frames and
grid frames will display the location of maximum My, minimum My, maximum Fz
and maximum Dz. A table for a space frame will display six values as shown above:
My (max & min), Fy, Fz, Mz (max & min), Dy, Dz.
Each line will print the position of the maximum value from End1 of the member plus
all the co-existent values. The maximum value in each line will be highlighted.
If two or more of the maximum values coincide at the same point on the member then
they will only be printed once in order to avoid duplication. Where this is the case, all
the maximum values in the line will be highlighted.
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10.3.4.6 Member force

diagrams
In addition to the standard properties filters of other results tables, member force
diagrams have some extra facilities
The member force diagram is a graphical representation of the in-span member forces
and deflections. The values displayed are envelopes of the selected loadcases.
The selected results are plotted at the specified interval and hatched according to the
job specific options - see SuperSUITE tolerance options and SuperSTRESS graphics
options. Maximum values are shown on the diagram together with their positions.
Colour codes differentiate between moment, shear, axial force, axial moment (torque)
and deflection.
The displayed diagram can be edited to include more diagrams per page. This can be
done by selecting Tools/Options/Graphics
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and entering values for the required number of columns and rows. If this operation
is performed whilst the Member Force Diagram window is still open, the redraw icon
will have to be pressed before the window is updated.
10.3.4.7 Detailed span

values
The detailed span values tables are only available in the reports option. This is
because the style of the tables is specifically designed for printed output. However, if
you wish to see the tables displayed on the screen, you can use the print preview
facility.
The style is a diagrammatic representation of the in-span deflections, moments and
shears on individual members.
Each selected loadcase is represented on the diagram by a single character. Because
of this, pattern and combination loadcases are numbered sequentially from the highest
numbered basic loadcase. For example, if a job has three basic loadcases and two
pattern loadcases, then combination number three will be represented by the character
'8'. For numbers greater than nine the uppercase letters 'A' to 'Z' are used. For
numbers greater than thirty-five the lowercase letters 'a' to 'z' are used. This permits
the display of loadcases numbered up to sixty-one.
Each member is represented with the member x-axis vertical and with the positive y
or z-axis (depending on the plane under consideration) to the left. All values printed
are absolute values. The numbers to the left represent the maximum values in the
envelope of selected loadcases; those to the right represent the minimum.
The sign conventions for the three types of table are:
Bending moments Are plotted on the y or z tension side, as is the normal case, with
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hogging moments negative and sagging moments positive.
10.3.4.8 SS-SURF surfaces
Shear
dM/dx which is positive when the bending moment is increasing

and negative when it is decreasing.
Deflections
Are considered positive when in the direction of the member y

or z-axis.
The SS-SURF influence surfaces table is created by SuperSTRESS. It is an output

table and the fields may not be edited.
The number of columns in the table depends on the number of joints and members
listed in the Influence Surfaces table.
Care must be taken to ensure that the units displayed or printed are consistent with
any loading that is to be applied using the surface values.
10.3.5
Results table
formats
10.3.5.1 Joint displacements

format
[SS JOINT DISPLACEMENTS]

Joint, Loadcase, DX, DY, DZ, RX, RY, RZ
eg 3, B1: Self weight,23.4,23.4,34,0,0,0
Results cannot be imported.
10.3.5.2 Member end forces

format
[SS MEMBER END FORCES]

Member, Loadcase, End1, Fx, Fy, Fz, End2, Fx, Fy, Fz
eg 3, B1: Self weight,1,23.4,23.4,2,34,0,0,0
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[SS MEMBER END MOMENTS]

Member, Loadcase, End1, Mx, My, Mz, End2, Mx, My, Mz
eg 3, B1: Self weight,1,23.4,23.4,2,34,0,0,0
10.3.5.3 Maximum span

forces format
[SS SPAN FORCES AND DISPLACEMENTS]

These records are not appropriate for plane trusses or space trusses.
Member, Loadcase, Position, My, Fz, Dz, Mz, Fy, Dy
eg 3, B1: Self weight,1,23.4,23.4,34,0,0,0
When listed during normal tabular output to the screen or printer, some of the records
will be omitted because the maxima are coincident. This does not happen with the
delimited file output in which all eight records are produced for consistency.
10.3.5.4 Member end

stresses format
[SS MEMBER END DIRECT STRESSES]

Member, Loadcase, End1, Fx, Fy, Fz, End2, Fx, Fy, Fz
eg 3, B1: Self weight,1,23.4,23.4,2,34,0,0,0
[SS MEMBER END BENDING STRESSES]
Member, Loadcase, End1, Mx, My, Mz, End2, Mx, My, Mz
eg 3, B1: Self weight,1,23.4,23.4,2,34,0,0,0
10.3.5.5 Support reactions

format
[SS SUPPORT REACTIONS]

Joint, Loadcase, FX, FY, FZ, MX, MY, MZ
eg 3, B1: Self weight,23.4,23.4,34,0,0,0
10.3.5.6 SS-SURF surfaces

format
[SF SURFACES]
Joint, Influence1, Influence2 etc...
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11.
Integrated software
INTEGRATED SOFTWARE
The routes out of SuperSTRESS are numerous, since it forms the centre of an
integrated range of analysis, design and detailing software for structural steelwork,
reinforced concrete and bridge analysis. The current options are:
H-LOAD
Highway loading to BS5400. This is a fully integrated

module of SuperSTRESS in Windows. It can be accessed
from the Mode Selector.
AutoLoader
Adverse loading optimiser. This is a fully integrated

from the Tools while in H-LOAD mode.
W-ARMER
Wood and Armer calculations. This is a fully integrated

from Tools on the main menu bar.
SuperSTEEL
Steelwork design to BS5950. This is a fully integrated

from the Mode Selector.
Reinforced concrete design to BS8110 (beams, rectangular

SuperCONCRETE
SC-BEAM, SC-RCOL columns and bases). These are fully integrated modules of
and SC-BASE
SuperSTRESS in Windows. They can be accessed from the
Mode Selector.
SuperMODEL
Modelling and visualisation. This is a DOS product which

can be accessed via Tools on the main menu bar.
These modules are available as additional cost options from Integer.

The following comments apply to the DOS product SuperMODEL.
If you pick SuperMODEL and it is not installed on your computer, you will receive a
message to that effect. If it is installed, you will be transferred to that application,
with the current job data remaining available.
On making your selection your job will be automatically saved as Version 3 format
before the link is used.
Once the link has been successful you should check that the WORKING directories in
SuperSTRESS and the DOS program are DIFFERENT and that the DATA directories
are the SAME.
DOS products are limited to support filenames of 8 characters or less. If your job has
more than 8 characters, SuperSTRESS will automatically crop your job name so that
the DOS program will recognise it. Similar to DOS itself, the job name will be
shortened to include a ~1 after the first 6 characters. If this is duplicated then the next
will include a ~2 on the end.
The size of SuperSTRESS Version 6 files is generally limited by the hardware
capabilities. Where SuperSTRESS is linking to any DOS product, the relevant
Product User Manual should be referenced for guidance on the file size limitation.
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INTEGRATED SOFTWARE
See Program link organisation for more information on how to set up your link
between SuperSTRESS and SuperMODEL.
11.1
SuperMODEL
SuperMODEL operates as a program for modelling and viewing a structure set up in

SuperSTRESS. Many of the sophisticated features in SuperSTRESS have been
incorporated into SuperMODEL to allow you to view, manipulate and select
structural details for transfer to either a drafting or design suite.
11.2
Program link
organisation
The following comments apply to the DOS linking products only.

The link between SuperSTRESS and its supporting programs is easily set up. Your
computer needs to be told where to look for the file that is used to run the program.
Running the corresponding BATCH file can start all of the supported programs. For
example SuperMODEL has SM.BAT. To tell your computer where to find these files
you will need to edit the AUTOEXEC.BAT file for Windows 98 users, and in control
panel, system, environment settings for Windows NT users.
The PATH statement tells your computer where certain files are located. It is this
PATH statement that requires editing to set up the link. An example of a path
statement is shown below.
PATH C:\WIN98;C:\WIN98\COMMAND;C:\DOS
The location of your program batch files has to be included in this line by simply
following the existing format.
The batch files, assuming a default installation, will be stored in C:\INTEGER
followed by the relevant sub-directory, e.g. C:\INTEGER\SM for SuperMODEL.
These directories can be added to the Path statement directly.
Alternatively, the relevant BATCH files can be copied and placed in a new directory.
For example a new directory C:\BATCH can be created and all the relevant Batch
files copied into this new directory. This new directory can then be added to the path
statement. This method is particularly useful if you have more than one batch file that
needs to be located; hence minimising the number of statements added to the PATH.
Any changes made to the Autoexec.bat file will need to be initialised by re-booting
your computer.
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12.
Appendix - Steel
section tables
APPENDIX
The standard section files are:

UK Sections
UBs, UCs, joist and UB piles
Circular hollow sections
Circular welded hollow sections
Rectangular and square hollow sections
Channels
Angles
Castellated sections
Tee sections
World Sections
European wide flange beams
European I beams
American wide flange beams
12.1
UK steel sections
12.1.1
UBs, UCs, joists

and UB pile
sections
Universal Beams
NOTE: * Indicates that the availability of these sections should be checked.
1 1016x305x487* UB
2 1016x305x437* UB
3 1016x305x393* UB
4 1016x305x349* UB
5 1016x305x314* UB
6 1016x305x272* UB
7 1016x305x249* UB
8 1016x305x222* UB
9 914x419x388 UB
10 914x419x343 UB
11 914x305x289 UB
12 914x305x253 UB
13 914x305x224 UB
14 914x305x201 UB
15 838x292x226 UB
16 838x292x194 UB
17 838x292x176 UB
18 762x267x197 UB
19 762x267x173 UB
20 762x267x147 UB
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APPENDIX
21 762x267x134 UB
22 686x254x170 UB
23 686x254x152 UB
24 686x254x140 UB
25 686x254x125 UB
26 610x305x238 UB
27 610x305x179 UB
28 610x305x149 UB
29 610x229x140 UB
30 610x229x125 UB
31 610x229x113 UB
32 610x229x101 UB
33 533x210x122 UB
34 533x210x109 UB
35 533x210x101 UB
36 533x210x92 UB
37 533x210x82 UB
38 457x191x98 UB
39 457x191x89 UB
40 457x191x82 UB
41 457x191x74 UB
42 457x191x67 UB
43 457x152x82 UB
44 457x152x74 UB
45 457x152x67 UB
46 457x152x60 UB
47 457x152x52 UB
48 406x178x74 UB
49 406x178x67 UB
50 406x178x60 UB
51 406x178x54 UB
52 406x140x46 UB
53 406x140x39 UB
54 356x171x67 UB
55 356x171x57 UB
56 356x171x51 UB
57 356x171x45 UB
58 356x127x39 UB
59 356x127x33 UB
60 305x165x54 UB
61 305x165x46 UB
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APPENDIX
62 305x165x40 UB
63 305x127x48 UB
64 305x127x42 UB
65 305x127x37 UB
66 305x102x33 UB
67 305x102x28 UB
68 305x102x25 UB
69 254x146x43 UB
70 254x146x37 UB
71 254x146x31 UB
72 254x102x28 UB
73 254x102x25 UB
74 254x102x22 UB
75 203x133x30 UB
76 203x133x25 UB
77 203x102x23 UB
78 178x102x19 UB
79 152x89x16 UB
80 127x76x13 UB
Universal Columns
NOTE: * Indicates that the availability of these sections should be checked.
1 356x406x634* UC
2 356x406x551* UC
3 356x406x467 UC
4 356x406x393 UC
5 356x406x340 UC
6 356x406x287 UC
7 356x406x235 UC
8 356x368x202 UC
9 356x368x177 UC
10 356x368x153 UC
11 356x368x129 UC
12 305x305x283 UC
13 305x305x240 UC
14 305x305x198 UC
15 305x305x158 UC
16 305x305x137 UC
17 305x305x118 UC
18 305x305x97 UC
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APPENDIX
19 254x254x167 UC
20 254x254x132 UC
21 254x254x107 UC
22 254x254x89 UC
23 254x254x73 UC
24 203x203x86 UC
25 203x203x71 UC
26 203x203x60 UC
27 203x203x52 UC
28 203x203x46 UC
29 152x152x37 UC
30 152x152x30 UC
31 152x152x23 UC
Joists
1 254x203x82 JST
2 254x114x37 JST
3 203x152x52 JST
4 152x127x37 JST
5 127x114x29 JST
6 127x114x27 JST
7 127x76x16 JST
8 114x114x27 JST
9 102x102x23 JST
10 102x44x7 JST
11 89x89x19 JST
12 76x76x15 JST
13 76x76x13 JST
Universal Bearing Piles
1 356x368x174 UBP
2 356x368x152 UBP
3 356x368x133 UBP
4 356x368x109 UBP
5 305x305x223 UBP
6 305x305x186 UBP
7 305x305x149 UBP
8 305x305x126 UBP
9 305x305x110 UBP
10 305x305x95 UBP
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11 305x305x88 UBP
12 305x305x79 UBP
13 254x254x85 UBP
14 254x254x71 UBP
15 254x254x63 UBP
16 203x203x54 UBP
17 203x203x45 UBP
12.1.2
Circular hollow
sections
All Circular Hollow Sections

NOTE: The availability of any hollow section should be checked.
1 2134x2134x22.2 CHS
2 2134x2134x20.6 CHS
3 2134x2134x19.1 CHS
4 2134x2134x17.5 CHS
5 2134x2134x15.9 CHS
6 2134x2134x14.3 CHS
7 2134x2134x12.7 CHS
8 2134x2134x11.9 CHS
9 2020x2020x22.2 CHS
10 2020x2020x20.6 CHS
11 2020x2020x19.1 CHS
12 2020x2020x17.5 CHS
13 2020x2020x15.9 CHS
14 2020x2020x14.3 CHS
15 2020x2020x12.7 CHS
16 2020x2020x11.9 CHS
17 1829x1829x22.2 CHS
18 1829x1829x20.6 CHS
19 1829x1829x19.1 CHS
20 1829x1829x17.5 CHS
21 1829x1829x15.9 CHS
22 1829x1829x14.3 CHS
23 1829x1829x12.7 CHS
24 1829x1829x11.9 CHS
25 1676x1676x22.2 CHS
26 1676x1676x20.6 CHS
27 1676x1676x19.1 CHS
28 1676x1676x17.5 CHS
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APPENDIX
29 1676x1676x15.9 CHS
30 1676x1676x14.3 CHS
31 1676x1676x12.7 CHS
32 1676x1676x11.9 CHS
33 1626x1626x22.2 CHS
34 1626x1626x20.6 CHS
35 1626x1626x19.1 CHS
36 1626x1626x17.5 CHS
37 1626x1626x15.9 CHS
38 1626x1626x14.3 CHS
39 1626x1626x12.7 CHS
40 1626x1626x11.9 CHS
41 1524x1524x22.2 CHS
42 1524x1524x20.6 CHS
43 1524x1524x19.1 CHS
44 1524x1524x17.5 CHS
45 1524x1524x15.9 CHS
46 1524x1524x14.3 CHS
47 1524x1524x12.7 CHS
48 1524x1524x11.9 CHS
49 1473x1473x22.2 CHS
50 1473x1473x20.6 CHS
51 1473x1473x19.1 CHS
52 1473x1473x17.5 CHS
53 1473x1473x15.9 CHS
54 1473x1473x14.3 CHS
55 1473x1473x12.7 CHS
56 1473x1473x11.9 CHS
57 1422x1422x22.2 CHS
58 1422x1422x20.6 CHS
59 1422x1422x19.1 CHS
60 1422x1422x17.5 CHS
61 1422x1422x15.9 CHS
62 1422x1422x14.3 CHS
63 1422x1422x12.7 CHS
64 1422x1422x11.9 CHS
65 1372x1372x22.2 CHS
66 1372x1372x20.6 CHS
67 1372x1372x19.1 CHS
68 1372x1372x17.5 CHS
69 1372x1372x15.9 CHS
Page 233
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
70 1372x1372x14.3 CHS
71 1372x1372x12.7 CHS
72 1372x1372x11.9 CHS
73 1372x1372x11.1 CHS
74 1372x1372x10.3 CHS
75 1372x1372x9.5 CHS
76 1321x1321x22.2 CHS
77 1321x1321x20.6 CHS
78 1321x1321x19.1 CHS
79 1321x1321x17.5 CHS
80 1321x1321x15.9 CHS
81 1321x1321x14.3 CHS
82 1321x1321x12.7 CHS
83 1321x1321x11.9 CHS
84 1321x1321x11.1 CHS
85 1321x1321x10.3 CHS
86 1321x1321x9.5 CHS
87 1270x1270x22.2 CHS
88 1270x1270x20.6 CHS
89 1270x1270x19.1 CHS
90 1270x1270x17.5 CHS
91 1270x1270x15.9 CHS
92 1270x1270x14.3 CHS
93 1270x1270x12.7 CHS
94 1270x1270x11.9 CHS
95 1270x1270x11.1 CHS
96 1270x1270x10.3 CHS
97 1270x1270x9.5 CHS
98 1219x1219x22.2 CHS
99 1219x1219x20.6 CHS
100 1219x1219x19.1 CHS
101 1219x1219x17.5 CHS
102 1219x1219x15.9 CHS
103 1219x1219x14.3 CHS
104 1219x1219x12.7 CHS
105 1219x1219x11.9 CHS
106 1219x1219x11.1 CHS
107 1219x1219x10.3 CHS
108 1219x1219x9.5 CHS
109 1168x1168x22.2 CHS
110 1168x1168x20.6 CHS
Page 234
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
111 1168x1168x19.1 CHS

112 1168x1168x17.5 CHS
113 1168x1168x15.9 CHS
114 1168x1168x14.3 CHS
115 1168x1168x12.7 CHS
116 1168x1168x11.9 CHS
117 1168x1168x11.1 CHS
118 1168x1168x10.3 CHS
119 1168x1168x9.5 CHS
120 1118x1118x22.2 CHS
121 1118x1118x20.6 CHS
122 1118x1118x19.1 CHS
123 1118x1118x17.5 CHS
124 1118x1118x15.9 CHS
125 1118x1118x14.3 CHS
126 1118x1118x12.7 CHS
127 1118x1118x11.9 CHS
128 1118x1118x11.1 CHS
129 1118x1118x10.3 CHS
130 1118x1118x9.5 CHS
131 1067x1067x28.6 CHS
132 1067x1067x27 CHS
133 1067x1067x25.4 CHS
134 1067x1067x23.8 CHS
135 1067x1067x22.2 CHS
136 1067x1067x20.6 CHS
137 1067x1067x19.1 CHS
138 1067x1067x17.5 CHS
139 1067x1067x15.9 CHS
140 1067x1067x14.3 CHS
141 1067x1067x12.7 CHS
142 1067x1067x11.9 CHS
143 1067x1067x11.1 CHS
144 1067x1067x10.3 CHS
145 1067x1067x9.5 CHS
146 1016x1016x28.6 CHS
147 1016x1016x27 CHS
148 1016x1016x25.4 CHS
149 1016x1016x23.8 CHS
150 1016x1016x22.2 CHS
151 1016x1016x20.6 CHS
Page 235
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
152 1016x1016x19.1 CHS

153 1016x1016x17.5 CHS
154 1016x1016x15.9 CHS
155 1016x1016x14.3 CHS
156 1016x1016x12.7 CHS
157 1016x1016x11.9 CHS
158 1016x1016x11.1 CHS
159 1016x1016x10.3 CHS
160 1016x1016x9.5 CHS
161 1016x1016x8.7 CHS
162 1016x1016x7.9 CHS
163 965x965x28.6 CHS
164 965x965x27 CHS
165 965x965x25.4 CHS
166 965x965x23.8 CHS
167 965x965x22.2 CHS
168 965x965x20.6 CHS
169 965x965x19.1 CHS
170 965x965x17.5 CHS
171 965x965x15.9 CHS
172 965x965x14.3 CHS
173 965x965x12.7 CHS
174 965x965x11.9 CHS
175 965x965x11.1 CHS
176 965x965x10.3 CHS
177 965x965x9.5 CHS
178 965x965x8.7 CHS
179 965x965x7.9 CHS
180 914x914x28.6 CHS
181 914x914x27 CHS
182 914x914x25.4 CHS
183 914x914x23.8 CHS
184 914x914x22.2 CHS
185 914x914x20.6 CHS
186 914x914x19.1 CHS
187 914x914x17.5 CHS
188 914x914x15.9 CHS
189 914x914x14.3 CHS
190 914x914x12.7 CHS
191 914x914x11.9 CHS
192 914x914x11.1 CHS
Page 236
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
193 914x914x10.3 CHS

194 914x914x9.5 CHS
195 914x914x8.7 CHS
196 914x914x7.9 CHS
197 864x864x28.6 CHS
198 864x864x27 CHS
199 864x864x25.4 CHS
200 864x864x23.8 CHS
201 864x864x22.2 CHS
202 864x864x20.6 CHS
203 864x864x19.1 CHS
204 864x864x17.5 CHS
205 864x864x15.9 CHS
206 864x864x14.3 CHS
207 864x864x12.7 CHS
208 864x864x11.9 CHS
209 864x864x11.1 CHS
210 864x864x10.3 CHS
211 864x864x9.5 CHS
212 864x864x8.7 CHS
213 864x864x7.9 CHS
214 813x813x28.6 CHS
215 813x813x27 CHS
216 813x813x25.4 CHS
217 813x813x23.8 CHS
218 813x813x22.2 CHS
219 813x813x20.6 CHS
220 813x813x19.1 CHS
221 813x813x17.5 CHS
222 813x813x15.9 CHS
223 813x813x14.3 CHS
224 813x813x12.7 CHS
225 813x813x11.9 CHS
226 813x813x11.1 CHS
227 813x813x10.3 CHS
228 813x813x9.5 CHS
229 813x813x8.7 CHS
230 813x813x7.9 CHS
231 762x762x28.6 CHS
232 762x762x27 CHS
233 762x762x25.4 CHS
Page 237
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
234 762x762x23.8 CHS

235 762x762x22.2 CHS
236 762x762x20.6 CHS
237 762x762x19.1 CHS
238 762x762x17.5 CHS
239 762x762x15.9 CHS
240 762x762x14.3 CHS
241 762x762x12.7 CHS
242 762x762x11.9 CHS
243 762x762x11.1 CHS
244 762x762x10.3 CHS
245 762x762x9.5 CHS
246 762x762x8.7 CHS
247 762x762x7.9 CHS
248 762x762x6.4 CHS
249 711x711x28.6 CHS
250 711x711x25.4 CHS
251 711x711x23.8 CHS
252 711x711x22.2 CHS
253 711x711x20.6 CHS
254 711x711x19.1 CHS
255 711x711x17.5 CHS
256 711x711x15.9 CHS
257 711x711x14.3 CHS
258 711x711x12.7 CHS
259 711x711x11.9 CHS
260 711x711x11.1 CHS
261 711x711x10.3 CHS
262 711x711x9.5 CHS
263 711x711x8.7 CHS
264 711x711x7.9 CHS
265 711x711x6.4 CHS
266 660x660x50 CHS
267 660x660x40 CHS
268 660x660x32 CHS
269 660x660x25.4 CHS
270 660x660x25 CHS
271 660x660x23.8 CHS
272 660x660x22.2 CHS
273 660x660x20.6 CHS
274 660x660x20 CHS
Page 238
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
275 660x660x19.1 CHS

276 660x660x17.5 CHS
277 660x660x15.9 CHS
278 660x660x14.3 CHS
279 660x660x12.7 CHS
280 660x660x11.9 CHS
281 660x660x11.1 CHS
282 660x660x10.3 CHS
283 660x660x9.5 CHS
284 660x660x8.7 CHS
285 660x660x7.9 CHS
286 660x660x6.4 CHS
287 610x610x50 CHS
288 610x610x40 CHS
289 610x610x32 CHS
290 610x610x25 CHS
291 610x610x23.8 CHS
292 610x610x22.2 CHS
293 610x610x20.6 CHS
294 610x610x20 CHS
295 610x610x19.1 CHS
296 610x610x17.5 CHS
297 610x610x15.9 CHS
298 610x610x14.3 CHS
299 610x610x12.7 CHS
300 610x610x11.9 CHS
301 610x610x11.1 CHS
302 610x610x10.3 CHS
303 610x610x9.5 CHS
304 610x610x8.7 CHS
305 610x610x7.9 CHS
306 610x610x6.4 CHS
307 559x559x50 CHS
308 559x559x40 CHS
309 559x559x32 CHS
310 559x559x25 CHS
311 559x559x22.2 CHS
312 559x559x20.6 CHS
313 559x559x20 CHS
314 559x559x19.1 CHS
315 559x559x17.5 CHS
Page 239
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
316 559x559x15.9 CHS

317 559x559x14.3 CHS
318 559x559x12.7 CHS
319 559x559x11.9 CHS
320 559x559x11.1 CHS
321 559x559x10.3 CHS
322 559x559x9.5 CHS
323 559x559x8.7 CHS
324 559x559x7.9 CHS
325 559x559x6.4 CHS
326 508x508x50 CHS
327 508x508x40 CHS
328 508x508x32 CHS
329 508x508x25 CHS
330 508x508x20 CHS
331 508x508x19.1 CHS
332 508x508x17.5 CHS
333 508x508x16 CHS
334 508x508x12.5 CHS
335 508x508x12 CHS
336 508x508x10 CHS
337 508x508x8 CHS
338 508x508x6.3 CHS
339 457x457x40 CHS
340 457x457x32 CHS
341 457x457x25 CHS
342 457x457x20 CHS
343 457x457x19.1 CHS
344 457x457x17.5 CHS
345 457x457x16 CHS
346 457x457x12.5 CHS
347 457x457x12 CHS
348 457x457x10 CHS
349 457x457x8 CHS
350 457x457x6.3 CHS
351 406.4x406.4x32 CHS
352 406.4x406.4x25 CHS
353 406.4x406.4x20 CHS
354 406.4x406.4x16 CHS
355 406.4x406.4x12.5 CHS
356 406.4x406.4x12 CHS
Page 240
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
357 406.4x406.4x10 CHS

358 406.4x406.4x8 CHS
359 406.4x406.4x6.3 CHS
360 355.6x355.6x25 CHS
361 355.6x355.6x20 CHS
362 355.6x355.6x16 CHS
363 355.6x355.6x12.5 CHS
364 355.6x355.6x12 CHS
365 355.6x355.6x10 CHS
366 355.6x355.6x8 CHS
367 355.6x355.6x6.3 CHS
368 323.9x323.9x25 CHS
369 323.9x323.9x20 CHS
370 323.9x323.9x16 CHS
371 323.9x323.9x12.5 CHS
372 323.9x323.9x12 CHS
373 323.9x323.9x10 CHS
374 323.9x323.9x8 CHS
375 323.9x323.9x6.3 CHS
376 323.9x323.9x6 CHS
377 323.9x323.9x5 CHS
378 273x273x25 CHS
379 273x273x20 CHS
380 273x273x16 CHS
381 273x273x12.5 CHS
382 273x273x12 CHS
383 273x273x10 CHS
384 273x273x8 CHS
385 273x273x6.3 CHS
386 273x273x6 CHS
387 273x273x5 CHS
388 244.5x244.5x25 CHS
389 244.5x244.5x20 CHS
390 244.5x244.5x16 CHS
391 244.5x244.5x12.5 CHS
392 244.5x244.5x12 CHS
393 244.5x244.5x10 CHS
394 244.5x244.5x8 CHS
395 244.5x244.5x6.3 CHS
396 244.5x244.5x6 CHS
397 244.5x244.5x5 CHS
Page 241
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
398 219.1x219.1x20 CHS

399 219.1x219.1x16 CHS
400 219.1x219.1x12.5 CHS
401 219.1x219.1x12 CHS
402 219.1x219.1x10 CHS
403 219.1x219.1x8 CHS
404 219.1x219.1x6.3 CHS
405 219.1x219.1x6 CHS
406 219.1x219.1x5 CHS
407 219.1x219.1x4.5 WCHS
408 193.7x193.7x16 CHS
409 193.7x193.7x12.5 CHS
410 193.7x193.7x12 CHS
411 193.7x193.7x10 CHS
412 193.7x193.7x8 CHS
413 193.7x193.7x6.3 CHS
414 193.7x193.7x6 CHS
415 193.7x193.7x5 CHS
416 168.3x168.3x12.5 CHS
417 168.3x168.3x12 CHS
418 168.3x168.3x10 CHS
419 168.3x168.3x8 CHS
420 168.3x168.3x6.3 CHS
421 168.3x168.3x6 CHS
422 168.3x168.3x5 CHS
423 168.3x168.3x4 CHS
424 168.3x168.3x3.6 CHS
425 168.3x168.3x3.2 CHS
426 139.7x139.7x10 CHS
427 139.7x139.7x8 CHS
428 139.7x139.7x6.3 CHS
429 139.7x139.7x6 CHS
430 139.7x139.7x5 CHS
431 139.7x139.7x4 CHS
432 139.7x139.7x3.6 CHS
433 139.7x139.7x3.2 CHS
434 114.3x114.3x6.3 CHS
435 114.3x114.3x6 CHS
436 114.3x114.3x5 CHS
437 114.3x114.3x4 CHS
438 114.3x114.3x3.6 CHS
Page 242
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
439 114.3x114.3x3.2 CHS

440 114.3x114.3x3 CHS
441 88.9x88.9x6.3 CHS
442 88.9x88.9x6 CHS
443 88.9x88.9x5 CHS
444 88.9x88.9x4 CHS
445 88.9x88.9x3.6 CHS
446 88.9x88.9x3.2 CHS
447 88.9x88.9x3 CHS
448 88.9x88.9x2.5 CHS
449 76.1x76.1x6.3 CHS
450 76.1x76.1x6 CHS
451 76.1x76.1x5 CHS
452 76.1x76.1x4 CHS
453 76.1x76.1x3.6 CHS
454 76.1x76.1x3.2 CHS
455 76.1x76.1x3 CHS
456 76.1x76.1x2.5 CHS
457 60.3x60.3x5 CHS
458 60.3x60.3x4 CHS
459 60.3x60.3x3.6 CHS
460 60.3x60.3x3.2 CHS
461 60.3x60.3x3 CHS
462 60.3x60.3x2.5 CHS
463 48.3x48.3x5 CHS
464 48.3x48.3x4 CHS
465 48.3x48.3x3.6 CHS
466 48.3x48.3x3.2 CHS
467 48.3x48.3x3 CHS
468 48.3x48.3x2.5 CHS
469 42.4x42.4x4 CHS
470 42.4x42.4x3.6 CHS
471 42.4x42.4x3.2 CHS
472 42.4x42.4x3 CHS
473 33.7x33.7x4 CHS
474 33.7x33.7x3.6 CHS
475 33.7x33.7x3.2 CHS
476 33.7x33.7x3 CHS
477 26.9x26.9x3.2 CHS
478 21.3x21.3x3.2 CHS
Page 243
SuperSTRESS
12.1.3
Circular welded
hollow sections
APPENDIX
Standard Circular Welded Hollow Sections

1 508x508x16 WCHS
2 508x508x12.5 WCHS
3 508x508x10 WCHS
4 508x508x8 WCHS
5 508x508x6.3 WCHS
6 457x457x16 WCHS
7 457x457x12.5 WCHS
8 457x457x10 WCHS
9 457x457x8 WCHS
10 457x457x6.3 WCHS
11 406.4x406.4x16 WCHS
12 406.4x406.4x12.5 WCHS
13 406.4x406.4x10 WCHS
14 406.4x406.4x8 WCHS
15 406.4x406.4x6.3 WCHS
16 355.6x355.6x16 WCHS
17 355.6x355.6x12.5 WCHS
18 355.6x355.6x10 WCHS
19 355.6x355.6x8 WCHS
20 355.6x355.6x6.3 WCHS
21 323.9x323.9x16 WCHS
22 323.9x323.9x12.5 WCHS
23 323.9x323.9x10 WCHS
24 323.9x323.9x8 WCHS
25 323.9x323.9x6.3 WCHS
26 323.9x323.9x5 WCHS
27 273x273x16 WCHS
28 273x273x12.5 WCHS
29 273x273x10 WCHS
30 273x273x8 WCHS
31 273x273x6.3 WCHS
32 273x273x5 WCHS
33 244.5x244.5x16 WCHS
34 244.5x244.5x12.5 WCHS
35 244.5x244.5x10 WCHS
36 244.5x244.5x8 WCHS
Page 244
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
37 244.5x244.5x6.3 WCHS
38 244.5x244.5x5 WCHS
39 219.1x219.1x16 WCHS
40 219.1x219.1x12.5 WCHS
41 219.1x219.1x10 WCHS
42 219.1x219.1x8 WCHS
43 219.1x219.1x6.3 WCHS
44 219.1x219.1x5 WCHS
45 219.1x219.1x4.5 WCHS
46 193.7x193.7x12.5 WCHS
47 193.7x193.7x10 WCHS
48 193.7x193.7x8 WCHS
49 193.7x193.7x6.3 WCHS
50 193.7x193.7x5 WCHS
51 168.3x168.3x12.5 WCHS
52 168.3x168.3x10 WCHS
53 168.3x168.3x8 WCHS
54 168.3x168.3x6.3 WCHS
55 168.3x168.3x5 WCHS
56 139.7x139.7x10 WCHS
57 139.7x139.7x8 WCHS
58 139.7x139.7x6.3 WCHS
59 139.7x139.7x5 WCHS
60 114.3x114.3x6.3 WCHS
61 114.3x114.3x5 WCHS
62 114.3x114.3x3.6 WCHS
63 88.9x88.9x5 WCHS
64 88.9x88.9x4 WCHS
65 88.9x88.9x3.2 WCHS
66 76.1x76.1x5 WCHS
67 76.1x76.1x4 WCHS
68 76.1x76.1x3.2 WCHS
69 60.3x60.3x5 WCHS
70 60.3x60.3x4 WCHS
71 60.3x60.3x3.2 WCHS
72 48.3x48.3x5 WCHS
73 48.3x48.3x4 WCHS
74 48.3x48.3x3.2 WCHS
Page 245
SuperSTRESS
12.1.4
Rectangular and
square hollow
sections
APPENDIX
Rectangular Hollow Sections

1 500 x 300 x 20 RHS
2 500 x 300 x 16 RHS
3 500 x 300 x 12.5 RHS
4 500 x 300 x 10 RHS
5 500 x 200 x 16 RHS
6 500 x 200 x 12.5 RHS
7 500 x 200 x 10 RHS
8 500 x 200 x 8 RHS
9 450 x 250 x 16 RHS
10 450 x 250 x 12.5 RHS
11 450 x 250 x 10 RHS
12 450 x 250 x 8 RHS
13 400 x 300 x 16 RHS
14 400 x 300 x 12.5 RHS
15 400 x 300 x 10 RHS
16 400 x 300 x 8 RHS
17 400 x 200 x 16 RHS
18 400 x 200 x 12.5 RHS
19 400 x 200 x 10 RHS
20 400 x 200 x 8 RHS
21 400 x 200 x 6.3 RHS
22 400 x 150 x 16 RHS
23 400 x 150 x 12.5 RHS
24 400 x 150 x 10 RHS
25 400 x 150 x 8 RHS
26 400 x 150 x 6.3 RHS
27 400 x 120 x 12.5 RHS
28 400 x 120 x 10 RHS
29 400 x 120 x 8 RHS
30 400 x 120 x 6.3 RHS
31 350 x 250 x 16 RHS
32 350 x 250 x 12.5 RHS
33 350 x 250 x 10 RHS
34 350 x 250 x 8 RHS
35 350 x 150 x 16 RHS
36 350 x 150 x 12.5 RHS
37 350 x 150 x 10 RHS
Page 246
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
38 350 x 150 x 8 RHS

39 350 x 150 x 6.3 RHS
40 300 x 250 x 16 RHS
41 300 x 250 x 12.5 RHS
42 300 x 250 x 10 RHS
43 300 x 250 x 8 RHS
44 300 x 250 x 6.3 RHS
45 300 x 200 x 16 RHS
46 300 x 200 x 12.5 RHS
47 300 x 200 x 10 RHS
48 300 x 200 x 8 RHS
49 300 x 200 x 6.3 RHS
50 300 x 100 x 16 RHS
51 300 x 100 x 12.5 RHS
52 300 x 100 x 10 RHS
53 300 x 100 x 8 RHS
54 300 x 100 x 6.3 RHS
55 260 x 140 x 16 RHS
56 260 x 140 x 12.5 RHS
57 260 x 140 x 10 RHS
58 260 x 140 x 8 RHS
59 260 x 140 x 6.3 RHS
60 250 x 150 x 16 RHS
61 250 x 150 x 12.5 RHS
62 250 x 150 x 10 RHS
63 250 x 150 x 8 RHS
64 250 x 150 x 6.3 RHS
65 250 x 150 x 5 RHS
66 250 x 100 x 16 RHS
67 250 x 100 x 12.5 RHS
68 250 x 100 x 10 RHS
69 250 x 100 x 8 RHS
70 250 x 100 x 6.3 RHS
71 200 x 150 x 16 RHS
72 200 x 150 x 12.5 RHS
73 200 x 150 x 10 RHS
74 200 x 150 x 8 RHS
75 200 x 150 x 6.3 RHS
76 200 x 150 x 5 RHS
77 200 x 120 x 16 RHS
78 200 x 120 x 12.5 RHS
Page 247
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
79 200 x 120 x 10 RHS

80 200 x 120 x 8 RHS
81 200 x 120 x 6.3 RHS
82 200 x 120 x 5 RHS
83 200 x 100 x 16 RHS
84 200 x 100 x 12.5 RHS
85 200 x 100 x 10 RHS
86 200 x 100 x 8 RHS
87 200 x 100 x 6.3 RHS
88 200 x 100 x 5 RHS
89 160 x 80 x 12.5 RHS
90 160 x 80 x 10 RHS
91 160 x 80 x 8 RHS
92 160 x 80 x 6.3 RHS
93 160 x 80 x 5 RHS
94 160 x 80 x 4 RHS
95 150 x 100 x 12.5 RHS
96 150 x 100 x 10 RHS
97 150 x 100 x 8 RHS
98 150 x 100 x 6.3 RHS
99 150 x 100 x 5 RHS
100 150 x 100 x 4 RHS
101 120 x 80 x 10 RHS
102 120 x 80 x 8 RHS
103 120 x 80 x 6.3 RHS
104 120 x 80 x 5 RHS
105 120 x 60 x 8 RHS
106 120 x 60 x 6.3 RHS
107 120 x 60 x 5 RHS
108 120 x 60 x 3.6 RHS
109 100 x 60 x 8 RHS
110 100 x 60 x 6.3 RHS
111 100 x 60 x 5 RHS
112 100 x 60 x 3.6 RHS
113 100 x 60 x 3 RHS
114 100 x 50 x 8 RHS
115 100 x 50 x 6.3 RHS
116 100 x 50 x 5 RHS
117 100 x 50 x 4 RHS
118 100 x 50 x 3.2 RHS
119 100 x 50 x 3 RHS
Page 248
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
120 90 x 50 x 8 RHS
121 90 x 50 x 6.3 RHS
122 90 x 50 x 5 RHS
123 90 x 50 x 3.6 RHS
124 90 x 50 x 3 RHS
125 80 x 40 x 8 RHS
126 80 x 40 x 6.3 RHS
127 80 x 40 x 5 RHS
128 80 x 40 x 4 RHS
129 80 x 40 x 3.2 RHS
130 80 x 40 x 3 RHS
131 60 x 40 x 6.3 RHS
132 60 x 40 x 5 RHS
133 60 x 40 x 4 RHS
134 60 x 40 x 3.2 RHS
135 60 x 40 x 3 RHS
136 60 x 40 x 2.5 RHS
137 50 x 30 x 5 RHS
138 50 x 30 x 4 RHS
139 50 x 30 x 3.2 RHS
140 50 x 30 x 3 RHS
141 50 x 30 x 2.5 RHS
Standard Square Hollow Sections
1 400 x 400 x 20 SHS
2 400 x 400 x 16 SHS
3 400 x 400 x 12.5 SHS
4 400 x 400 x 12 SHS
5 400 x 400 x 10 SHS
6 400 x 400 x 8 SHS
7 350 x 350 x 16 SHS
8 350 x 350 x 12.5 SHS
9 350 x 350 x 12 SHS
10 350 x 350 x 10 SHS
11 350 x 350 x 8 SHS
12 300 x 300 x 16 SHS
13 300 x 300 x 12.5 SHS
14 300 x 300 x 12 SHS
Page 249
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
15 300 x 300 x 10 SHS

16 300 x 300 x 8 SHS
17 300 x 300 x 6.3 SHS
18 300 x 300 x 6 SHS
19 260 x 260 x 12.5 SHS
20 260 x 260 x 10 SHS
21 260 x 260 x 8 SHS
22 260 x 260 x 6.3 SHS
23 250 x 250 x 16 SHS
24 250 x 250 x 12.5 SHS
25 250 x 250 x 12 SHS
26 250 x 250 x 10 SHS
27 250 x 250 x 8 SHS
28 250 x 250 x 6.3 SHS
29 250 x 250 x 6 SHS
30 250 x 250 x 5 SHS
31 200 x 200 x 16 SHS
32 200 x 200 x 12.5 SHS
33 200 x 200 x 12 SHS
34 200 x 200 x 10 SHS
35 200 x 200 x 8 SHS
36 200 x 200 x 6.3 SHS
37 200 x 200 x 6 SHS
38 200 x 200 x 5 SHS
39 180 x 180 x 16 SHS
40 180 x 180 x 12.5 SHS
41 180 x 180 x 12 SHS
42 180 x 180 x 10 SHS
43 180 x 180 x 8 SHS
44 180 x 180 x 6.3 SHS
45 180 x 180 x 6 SHS
46 180 x 180 x 5 SHS
47 160 x 160 x 16 SHS
48 160 x 160 x 12.5 SHS
49 160 x 160 x 12 SHS
50 160 x 160 x 10 SHS
51 160 x 160 x 8 SHS
52 160 x 160 x 6.3 SHS
53 160 x 160 x 6 SHS
54 160 x 160 x 5 SHS
55 150 x 150 x 16 SHS
Page 250
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
56 150 x 150 x 12.5 SHS

57 150 x 150 x 12 SHS
58 150 x 150 x 10 SHS
59 150 x 150 x 8 SHS
60 150 x 150 x 6.3 SHS
61 150 x 150 x 6 SHS
62 150 x 150 x 5 SHS
63 140 x 140 x 12.5 SHS
64 140 x 140 x 12 SHS
65 140 x 140 x 10 SHS
66 140 x 140 x 8 SHS
67 140 x 140 x 6.3 SHS
68 140 x 140 x 6 SHS
69 140 x 140 x 5 SHS
70 120 x 120 x 12.5 SHS
71 120 x 120 x 12 SHS
72 120 x 120 x 10 SHS
73 120 x 120 x 8 SHS
74 120 x 120 x 6.3 SHS
75 120 x 120 x 6 SHS
76 120 x 120 x 5 SHS
77 120 x 120 x 4 SHS
78 100 x 100 x 10 SHS
79 100 x 100 x 8 SHS
80 100 x 100 x 6.3 SHS
81 100 x 100 x 6 SHS
82 100 x 100 x 5 SHS
83 100 x 100 x 4 SHS
84 100 x 100 x 3.6 SHS
85 90 x 90 x 8 SHS
86 90 x 90 x 6.3 SHS
87 90 x 90 x 6 SHS
88 90 x 90 x 5 SHS
89 90 x 90 x 4 SHS
90 90 x 90 x 3.6 SHS
91 80 x 80 x 8 SHS
92 80 x 80 x 6.3 SHS
93 80 x 80 x 6 SHS
94 80 x 80 x 5 SHS
95 80 x 80 x 4 SHS
96 80 x 80 x 3.6 SHS
Page 251
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
97 80 x 80 x 3.2 SHS
98 70 x 70 x 8 SHS
99 70 x 70 x 6.3 SHS
100 70 x 70 x 6 SHS
101 70 x 70 x 5 SHS
102 70 x 70 x 4 SHS
103 70 x 70 x 3.6 SHS
104 70 x 70 x 3.2 SHS
105 70 x 70 x 3 SHS
106 60 x 60 x 8 SHS
107 60 x 60 x 6.3 SHS
108 60 x 60 x 6 SHS
109 60 x 60 x 5 SHS
110 60 x 60 x 4 SHS
111 60 x 60 x 3.6 SHS
112 60 x 60 x 3.2 SHS
113 60 x 60 x 3 SHS
114 50 x 50 x 6.3 SHS
115 50 x 50 x 6 SHS
116 50 x 50 x 5 SHS
117 50 x 50 x 4 SHS
118 50 x 50 x 3.6 SHS
119 50 x 50 x 3.2 SHS
120 50 x 50 x 3 SHS
121 50 x 50 x 2.5 SHS
122 40 x 40 x 5 SHS
123 40 x 40 x 4 SHS
124 40 x 40 x 3.6 SHS
125 40 x 40 x 3.2 SHS
126 40 x 40 x 3 SHS
127 40 x 40 x 2.5 SHS
Standard and Jumbo Square Hollow Sections
1 800 x 800 x 50 JSHS
2 800 x 800 x 40 JSHS
3 800 x 800 x 36 JSHS
4 800 x 800 x 32 JSHS
5 800 x 800 x 28 JSHS
Page 252
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
6 800 x 800 x 25 JSHS

7 750 x 750 x 50 JSHS
8 750 x 750 x 45 JSHS
9 750 x 750 x 40 JSHS
10 750 x 750 x 36 JSHS
11 750 x 750 x 32 JSHS
12 750 x 750 x 28 JSHS
13 750 x 750 x 25 JSHS
14 700 x 700 x 50 JSHS
15 700 x 700 x 45 JSHS
16 700 x 700 x 40 JSHS
17 700 x 700 x 36 JSHS
18 700 x 700 x 32 JSHS
19 700 x 700 x 28 JSHS
20 700 x 700 x 25 JSHS
21 650 x 650 x 50 JSHS
22 650 x 650 x 45 JSHS
23 650 x 650 x 40 JSHS
24 650 x 650 x 36 JSHS
25 650 x 650 x 32 JSHS
26 650 x 650 x 28 JSHS
27 650 x 650 x 25 JSHS
28 600 x 600 x 50 JSHS
29 600 x 600 x 45 JSHS
30 600 x 600 x 40 JSHS
31 600 x 600 x 36 JSHS
32 600 x 600 x 32 JSHS
33 600 x 600 x 28 JSHS
34 600 x 600 x 25 JSHS
35 550 x 550 x 40 JSHS
36 550 x 550 x 36 JSHS
37 550 x 550 x 32 JSHS
38 550 x 550 x 28 JSHS
39 550 x 550 x 25 JSHS
40 550 x 550 x 22 JSHS
41 550 x 550 x 19 JSHS
42 550 x 550 x 16 JSHS
43 500 x 500 x 36 JSHS
44 500 x 500 x 32 JSHS
45 500 x 500 x 28 JSHS
46 500 x 500 x 25 JSHS
Page 253
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
47 500 x 500 x 22 JSHS

48 500 x 500 x 19 JSHS
49 500 x 500 x 16 JSHS
50 500 x 500 x 12 JSHS
51 450 x 450 x 32 JSHS
52 450 x 450 x 28 JSHS
53 450 x 450 x 25 JSHS
54 450 x 450 x 22 JSHS
55 450 x 450 x 19 JSHS
56 450 x 450 x 16 JSHS
57 450 x 450 x 12 JSHS
58 400 x 400 x 25 JSHS
59 400 x 400 x 22 JSHS
60 400 x 400 x 20 JSHS
61 400 x 400 x 16 JSHS
62 400 x 400 x 12.5 JSHS
63 400 x 400 x 12 JSHS
64 400 x 400 x 10 JSHS
65 400 x 400 x 8 JSHS
66 350 x 350 x 25 JSHS
67 350 x 350 x 22 JSHS
68 350 x 350 x 19 JSHS
69 350 x 350 x 16 JSHS
70 350 x 350 x 12.5 JSHS
71 350 x 350 x 12 JSHS
72 350 x 350 x 10 JSHS
73 350 x 350 x 8 JSHS
74 300 x 300 x 16 JSHS
75 300 x 300 x 12.5 JSHS
76 300 x 300 x 12 JSHS
77 300 x 300 x 10 JSHS
78 300 x 300 x 8 JSHS
79 300 x 300 x 6.3 JSHS
80 300 x 300 x 6 JSHS
81 260 x 260 x 12.5 JSHS
82 260 x 260 x 10 JSHS
83 260 x 260 x 8 JSHS
84 260 x 260 x 6.3 JSHS
85 250 x 250 x 16 JSHS
86 250 x 250 x 12.5 JSHS
87 250 x 250 x 12 JSHS
Page 254
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
88 250 x 250 x 10 JSHS

89 250 x 250 x 8 JSHS
90 250 x 250 x 6.3 JSHS
91 250 x 250 x 6 JSHS
92 250 x 250 x 5 JSHS
93 200 x 200 x 16 JSHS
94 200 x 200 x 12.5 JSHS
95 200 x 200 x 12 JSHS
96 200 x 200 x 10 JSHS
97 200 x 200 x 8 JSHS
98 200 x 200 x 6.3 JSHS
99 200 x 200 x 6 JSHS
100 200 x 200 x 5 JSHS
101 180 x 180 x 16 JSHS
102 180 x 180 x 12.5 JSHS
103 180 x 180 x 12 JSHS
104 180 x 180 x 10 JSHS
105 180 x 180 x 8 JSHS
106 180 x 180 x 6.3 JSHS
107 180 x 180 x 6 JSHS
108 180 x 180 x 5 JSHS
109 160 x 160 x 16 JSHS
110 160 x 160 x 12.5 JSHS
111 160 x 160 x 12 JSHS
112 160 x 160 x 10 JSHS
113 160 x 160 x 8 JSHS
114 160 x 160 x 6.3 JSHS
115 160 x 160 x 6 JSHS
116 160 x 160 x 5 JSHS
117 150 x 150 x 16 JSHS
118 150 x 150 x 12.5 JSHS
119 150 x 150 x 12 JSHS
120 150 x 150 x 10 JSHS
121 150 x 150 x 8 JSHS
122 150 x 150 x 6.3 JSHS
123 150 x 150 x 6 JSHS
124 150 x 150 x 5 JSHS
125 140 x 140 x 12.5 JSHS
126 140 x 140 x 12 JSHS
127 140 x 140 x 10 JSHS
128 140 x 140 x 8 JSHS
Page 255
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
129 140 x 140 x 6.3 JSHS

130 140 x 140 x 6 JSHS
131 140 x 140 x 5 JSHS
132 120 x 120 x 12.5 JSHS
133 120 x 120 x 12 JSHS
134 120 x 120 x 10 JSHS
135 120 x 120 x 8 JSHS
136 120 x 120 x 6.3 JSHS
137 120 x 120 x 6 JSHS
138 120 x 120 x 5 JSHS
139 120 x 120 x 4 JSHS
140 100 x 100 x 10 JSHS
141 100 x 100 x 8 JSHS
142 100 x 100 x 6.3 JSHS
143 100 x 100 x 6 JSHS
144 100 x 100 x 5 JSHS
145 100 x 100 x 4 JSHS
146 100 x 100 x 3.6 JSHS
147 90 x 90 x 8 JSHS
148 90 x 90 x 6.3 JSHS
149 90 x 90 x 6 JSHS
150 90 x 90 x 5 JSHS
151 90 x 90 x 4 JSHS
152 90 x 90 x 3.6 JSHS
153 80 x 80 x 8 JSHS
154 80 x 80 x 6.3 JSHS
155 80 x 80 x 6 JSHS
156 80 x 80 x 5 JSHS
157 80 x 80 x 4 JSHS
158 80 x 80 x 3.6 JSHS
159 80 x 80 x 3.2 JSHS
160 70 x 70 x 8 JSHS
161 70 x 70 x 6.3 JSHS
162 70 x 70 x 6 JSHS
163 70 x 70 x 5 JSHS
164 70 x 70 x 4 JSHS
165 70 x 70 x 3.6 JSHS
166 70 x 70 x 3.2 JSHS
167 70 x 70 x 3 JSHS
168 60 x 60 x 8 JSHS
169 60 x 60 x 6.3 JSHS
Page 256
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
170 60 x 60 x 6 JSHS
171 60 x 60 x 5 JSHS
172 60 x 60 x 4 JSHS
173 60 x 60 x 3.6 JSHS
174 60 x 60 x 3.2 JSHS
175 60 x 60 x 3 JSHS
176 50 x 50 x 6.3 JSHS
177 50 x 50 x 6 JSHS
178 50 x 50 x 5 JSHS
179 50 x 50 x 4 JSHS
180 50 x 50 x 3.6 JSHS
181 50 x 50 x 3.2 JSHS
182 50 x 50 x 3 JSHS
183 50 x 50 x 2.5 JSHS
184 40 x 40 x 5 JSHS
185 40 x 40 x 4 JSHS
186 40 x 40 x 3.6 JSHS
187 40 x 40 x 3.2 JSHS
188 40 x 40 x 3 JSHS
189 40 x 40 x 2.5 JSHS
12.1.5
Channel sections
Channel Sections
1 432x102x65.54 CH
2 381x102x55.10 CH
3 305x102x46.18 CH
4 305x89x41.69 CH
5 254x89x35.74 CH
6 254x76x28.29 CH
7 229x89x32.76 CH
8 229x76x26.06 CH
9 203x89x29.78 CH
10 203x76x23.82 CH
11 178x89x26.81 CH
12 178x76x20.84 CH
13 152x89x23.84 CH
14 152x76x17.88 CH
15 127x64x14.90 CH
16 102x51x10.42* CH
17 76x38x6.70* CH
Page 257
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
Parallel Flange Channels

1 430x100x64 PFC
2 380x100x54 PFC
3 300x100x46 PFC
4 300x90x41 PFC
5 260x90x35 PFC
6 260x75x28 PFC
7 230x90x32 PFC
8 230x75x26 PFC
9 200x90x30 PFC
10 200x75x23 PFC
11 180x90x26 PFC
12 180x75x20 PFC
13 150x90x24 PFC
14 150x75x18 PFC
15 125x65x15 PFC
16 100x50x10 PFC
12.1.6
Angle sections
Equal Angles
1 200x200x24 EQ
2 200x200x20 EQ
3 200x200x18 EQ
4 200x200x16 EQ
5 150x150x18 EQ
6 150x150x15 EQ
7 150x150x12 EQ
8 150x150x10 EQ
9 120x120x15 EQ
10 120x120x12 EQ
11 120x120x10 EQ
12 120x120x8 EQ
13 100x100x15 EQ
14 100x100x12 EQ
15 100x100x10 EQ
16 100x100x8 EQ
17 90x90x12 EQ
18 90x90x10 EQ
19 90x90x8 EQ
Page 258
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
20 90x90x7 EQ
21 90x90x6 EQ
22 80x80x10 EQ
23 80x80x8 EQ
24 80x80x6 EQ
25 70x70x10 EQ
26 70x70x8 EQ
27 70x70x6 EQ
28 60x60x10 EQ
29 60x60x8 EQ
30 60x60x6 EQ
31 60x60x5 EQ
32 50x50x8 EQ
33 50x50x6 EQ
34 50x50x5 EQ
35 50x50x4 EQ
36 50x50x3 EQ
37 45x45x6 EQ
38 45x45x5 EQ
39 45x45x4 EQ
40 45x45x3 EQ
41 40x40x6 EQ
42 40x40x5 EQ
43 40x40x4 EQ
44 40x40x3 EQ
45 30x30x5 EQ
46 30x30x4 EQ
47 30x30x3 EQ
48 25x25x5 EQ
49 25x25x4 EQ
50 25x25x3 EQ
Unequal Angles
1 200x150x18 UEQ
2 200x150x15 UEQ
3 200x150x12 UEQ
4 200x100x15 UEQ
5 200x100x12 UEQ
6 200x100x10 UEQ
7 150x90x15 UEQ
Page 259
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
8 150x90x12 UEQ
9 150x90x10 UEQ
10 150x75x15 UEQ
11 150x75x12 UEQ
12 150x75x10 UEQ
13 125x75x12 UEQ
14 125x75x10 UEQ
15 125x75x8 UEQ
16 100x75x12 UEQ
17 100x75x10 UEQ
18 100x75x8 UEQ
19 100x65x10 UEQ
20 100x65x8 UEQ
21 100x65x7 UEQ
22 80x60x8 UEQ
23 80x60x7 UEQ
24 80x60x6 UEQ
25 75x50x8 UEQ
26 75x50x6 UEQ
27 65x50x8 UEQ
28 65x50x6 UEQ
29 65x50x5 UEQ
30 60x30x6 UEQ
31 60x30x5 UEQ
32 40x25x4 UEQ
12.1.7
Castellated
sections
Castellated Universal Beams

1 1371x419x388 CUB
2 1371x419x343 CUB
3 1371x305x289 CUB
4 1371x305x253 CUB
5 1371x305x224 CUB
6 1371x305x201 CUB
7 1257x292x226 CUB
8 1257x292x194 CUB
9 1257x292x176 CUB
10 1143x267x197 CUB
11 1143x267x173 CUB
12 1143x267x147 CUB
Page 260
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
13 1143x267x134 CUB
14 1029x254x170 CUB
15 1029x254x152 CUB
16 1029x254x140 CUB
17 1029x254x125 CUB
18 915x305x238 CUB
19 915x305x179 CUB
25 800x210x122 CUB
26 800x210x109 CUB
27 800x210x101 CUB
28 800x210x92 CUB
29 800x210x82 CUB
30 686x191x98 CUB
31 686x191x89 CUB
32 686x191x82 CUB
33 686x191x74 CUB
34 686x191x67 CUB
35 686x152x82 CUB
36 686x152x74 CUB
37 686x152x67 CUB
38 686x152x60 CUB
39 686x152x52 CUB
40 609x178x74 CUB
41 609x178x67 CUB
42 609x178x60 CUB
43 609x178x54 CUB
44 609x140x46 CUB
45 609x140x39 CUB
46 534x171x67 CUB
47 534x171x57 CUB
48 534x171x51 CUB
49 534x171x45 CUB
50 534x127x39 CUB
51 534x127x33 CUB
52 458x165x54 CUB
53 458x165x46 CUB
54 458x165x40 CUB
55 458x127x48 CUB
56 458x127x42 CUB
57 458x127x37 CUB
58 458x102x33 CUB
Page 261
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
59 458x102x28 CUB
60 458x102x25 CUB
61 381x146x43 CUB
62 381x146x37 CUB
63 381x146x31 CUB
64 381x102x28 CUB
65 381x102x25 CUB
66 381x102x22 CUB
67 305x133x30 CUB
68 305x133x25 CUB
69 305x102x23 CUB
70 267x102x19 CUB
71 228x89x16 CUB
72 191x76x13 CUB
Castellated Universal Columns
1 534x406x634 CUC
2 534x406x551 CUC
3 534x406x467 CUC
4 534x406x393 CUC
5 534x406x340 CUC
6 534x406x287 CUC
7 534x406x235 CUC
8 534x368x202 CUC
9 534x368x177 CUC
10 534x368x153 CUC
11 534x368x129 CUC
12 458x305x283 CUC
13 458x305x240 CUC
14 458x305x198 CUC
15 458x305x158 CUC
16 458x305x137 CUC
17 458x305x118 CUC
18 458x305x97 CUC
19 381x254x167 CUC
20 381x254x132 CUC
21 381x254x107 CUC
22 381x254x89 CUC
23 381x254x73 CUC
24 305x203x86 CUC
Page 262
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
25 305x203x71 CUC
26 305x203x60 CUC
27 305x203x52 CUC
28 305x203x46 CUC
29 228x152x37 CUC
30 228x152x30 CUC
31 228x152x23 CUC
Castellated Joists
1 381x203x82 CJST
2 381x114x37 CJST
3 305x152x52 CJST
4 228x127x37 CJST
5 191x114x29 CJST
6 191x114x27 CJST
7 191x76x16 CJST
8 171x114x27 CJST
9 153x102x23 CJST
10 153x44x7 CJST
11 134x89x19 CJST
12 114x76x15 CJST
13 114x76x13 CJST
12.1.8
Tee sections
Tees from Universal Beams

1 305x457x127 TUB
2 305x457x112 TUB
3 305x457x101 TUB
4 292x419x113 TUB
5 292x419x97 TUB
6 292x419x88 TUB
7 267x381x99 TUB
8 267x381x87 TUB
9 267x381x74 TUB
10 254x343x85 TUB
11 254x343x76 TUB
12 254x343x70 TUB
13 254x343x63 TUB
14 305x305x119 TUB
15 305x305x90 TUB
Page 263
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
16 305x305x75 TUB
17 229x305x70 TUB
18 229x305x63 TUB
19 229x305x57 TUB
20 229x305x51 TUB
21 210x267x61 TUB
22 210x267x55 TUB
23 210x267x51 TUB
24 210x267x46 TUB
25 210x267x41 TUB
26 191x229x49 TUB
27 191x229x45 TUB
28 191x229x41 TUB
29 191x229x37 TUB
30 191x229x34 TUB
31 152x229x41 TUB
32 152x229x37 TUB
33 152x229x34 TUB
34 152x229x30 TUB
35 152x229x26 TUB
36 178x203x37 TUB
37 178x203x34 TUB
38 178x203x30 TUB
39 178x203x27 TUB
40 140x203x23 TUB
41 140x203x20 TUB
42 171x178x34 TUB
43 171x178x29 TUB
44 171x178x26 TUB
45 171x178x23 TUB
46 127x178x20 TUB
47 127x178x17 TUB
48 165x152x27 TUB
49 165x152x23 TUB
50 165x152x20 TUB
51 127x152x24 TUB
52 127x152x21 TUB
53 127x152x19 TUB
54 102x152x17 TUB
55 102x152x14 TUB
56 102x152x13 TUB
Page 264
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
57 146x127x22 TUB
58 146x127x19 TUB
59 146x127x16 TUB
60 102x127x14 TUB
61 102x127x13 TUB
62 102x127x11 TUB
63 133x102x15 TUB
64 133x102x13 TUB
Tees from Universal Columns
1 406x178x118 TUC
2 368x178x101 TUC
3 368x178x89 TUC
4 368x178x77 TUC
5 368x178x65 TUC
6 305x152x79 TUC
7 305x152x69 TUC
8 305x152x59 TUC
9 305x152x49 TUC
10 254x127x66 TUC
11 254x127x54 TUC
12 254x127x45 TUC
13 254x127x37 TUC
14 203x102x43 TUC
15 203x102x36 TUC
16 203x102x30 TUC
17 203x102x26 TUC
18 203x102x23 TUC
19 152x76x19 TUC
20 152x76x15 TUC
21 152x76x12 TUC
12.2
World steel sections
12.2.1
European wide
flange beams
European Wide Flange Beams

1 1000 M HE
2 1000 B HE
3 1000 A HE
4 1000 AA HE
5 900 M HE
Page 265
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
6 900 B HE
7 900 A HE
8 900 AA HE
9 800 M HE
10 800 B HE
11 800 A HE
12 800 AA HE
13 700 M HE
14 700 B HE
15 700 A HE
16 700 x 166 HE
17 700 AA HE
18 650 M HE
19 650 B HE
20 650 A HE
21 650 AA HE
22 600 M HE
23 600 B HE
24 600 A HE
25 600 x 175 HE
26 600 x 151 HE
27 600 x 137 HE
28 600 AA HE
29 550 M HE
30 550 B HE
31 550 A HE
32 550 AA HE
33 500 M HE
34 500 B HE
35 500 A HE
36 500 AA HE
37 450 M HE
38 450 B HE
39 450 A HE
40 450 x 124 HE
41 450 AA HE
42 400 M HE
43 360 M HE
44 400 B HE
45 360 B HE
46 400 A HE
Page 266
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
47 360 A HE
48 400 x 107 HE
49 400 AA HE
50 360 AA HE
51 340 M HE
52 340 B HE
53 340 A HE
54 340 AA HE
55 320 M HE
56 320 B HE
57 320 A HE
58 320 AA HE
59 300 M HE
60 300 C HE
61 300 B HE
62 300 A HE
63 300 AA HE
64 280 M HE
65 280 B HE
66 280 A HE
67 280 AA HE
68 260 M HE
69 260 B HE
70 260 A HE
71 260 AA HE
72 240 M HE
73 240 B HE
74 240 A HE
75 240 AA HE
76 220 M HE
77 220 B HE
78 220 A HE
79 220 AA HE
80 200 M HE
81 200 B HE
82 200 A HE
83 200 AA HE
84 180 M HE
85 180 B HE
86 180 A HE
87 180 AA HE
Page 267
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
88 160 M HE
89 160 B HE
90 160 A HE
91 160 AA HE
92 140 B HE
93 140 A HE
94 140 AA HE
95 120 B HE
96 120 A HE
97 120 AA HE
98 100 B HE
99 100 A HE
100 100 AA HE
12.2.2
European I Beams
European I Beams
1 750 x 223 IPE
2 750 x 210 IPE
3 750 x 197 IPE
4 750 x 185 IPE
5 750 x 174 IPE
6 750 x 161 IPE
7 750 x 147 IPE
8 750 x 137 IPE
9 600 V IPE
10 600 O IPE
11 600 R IPE
12 600 IPE
13 600 A IPE
14 550 V IPE
15 550 R IPE
16 550 O IPE
17 550 IPE
18 550 A IPE
19 500 V IPE
20 500 R IPE
21 500 O IPE
22 500 IPE
23 500 A IPE
24 450 V IPE
Page 268
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
25 450 R IPE
26 450 O IPE
27 450 IPE
28 450 A IPE
29 400 V IPE
30 400 R IPE
31 400 O IPE
32 400 IPE
33 400 A IPE
34 360 R IPE
35 360 O IPE
36 360 IPE
37 360 A IPE
38 330 R IPE
39 330 O IPE
40 330 IPE
41 330 A IPE
42 300 R IPE
43 300 O IPE
44 300 IPE
45 300 A IPE
46 270 R IPE
47 270 O IPE
48 270 IPE
49 270 A IPE
50 240 R IPE
51 240 O IPE
52 240 IPE
53 240 A IPE
54 220 R IPE
55 220 O IPE
56 220 IPE
57 220 A IPE
58 200 R IPE
59 200 O IPE
60 200 IPE
61 200 A IPE
62 180 R IPE
63 180 O IPE
64 180 IPE
65 180 A IPE
Page 269
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APPENDIX
66 160 R IPE
67 160 IPE
68 160 A IPE
69 140 R IPE
70 140 IPE
71 140 A IPE
72 120 IPE
73 120 A IPE
74 100 IPE
75 100 A IPE
12.2.3
American (ASTM)
wide flange beams
American (ASTM) Wide Flange Beams

1 40x12x359 W
2 40x12x327 W
3 40x12x294 W
4 40x12x264 W
5 40x12x235 W
6 40x12x211 W
7 40x12x183 W
8 40x12x167 W
9 40x12x149 W
10 36x16x359 W
11 36x16x328 W
12 36x16x300 W
13 36x16x280 W
14 36x16x260 W
15 36x16x245 W
16 36x16x230 W
17 36x12x387 W
18 36x12x350 W
19 36x12x318 W
20 36x12x286 W
21 36x12x256 W
22 36x12x232 W
23 36x12x210 W
24 36x12x194 W
25 36x12x182 W
26 36x12x170 W
27 36x12x160 W
Page 270
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APPENDIX
28 36x12x150 W
29 36x12x135 W
30 33x15x468 W
31 33x15x424 W
32 33x15x387 W
33 33x15x354 W
34 33x15x318 W
35 33x15x291 W
36 33x15x263 W
37 33x15x241 W
38 33x15x221 W
39 33x15x201 W
40 33x11x361 W
41 33x11x332 W
42 33x11x301 W
43 33x11x271 W
44 33x11x243 W
45 33x11x219 W
46 33x11x204 W
47 33x11x187 W
48 33x11x169 W
49 33x11x152 W
50 33x11x141 W
51 33x11x130 W
52 33x11x118 W
53 30x15x357 W
54 30x15x326 W
55 30x15x292 W
56 30x15x261 W
57 30x15x235 W
58 30x15x211 W
59 30x15x191 W
60 30x15x173 W
61 30x10x295 W
62 30x10x269 W
63 30x10x246 W
64 30x10x226 W
65 30x10x207 W
66 30x10x185 W
67 30x10x165 W
68 30x10x148 W
Page 271
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
69 30x10x132 W
70 30x10x124 W
71 30x10x116 W
72 30x10x108 W
73 30x10x99 W
74 30x10x90 W
75 27x14x336 W
76 27x14x307 W
77 27x14x281 W
78 27x14x258 W
79 27x14x235 W
80 27x14x217 W
81 27x14x194 W
82 27x14x178 W
83 27x14x161 W
84 27x14x146 W
85 27x10x302 W
86 27x10x271 W
87 27x10x247 W
88 27x10x221 W
89 27x10x201 W
90 27x10x182 W
91 27x10x159 W
92 27x10x143 W
93 27x10x129 W
94 27x10x114 W
95 27x10x102 W
96 27x10x94 W
97 27x10x84 W
98 24x12x306 W
99 24x12x279 W
100 24x12x250 W
101 24x12x229 W
102 24x12x207 W
103 24x12x192 W
104 24x12x176 W
105 24x12x162 W
106 24x12x146 W
107 24x12x131 W
108 24x12x117 W
109 24x12x104 W
Page 272
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APPENDIX
110 24x9x94 W
111 24x9x84 W
112 24x9x76 W
113 24x9x68 W
114 24x9x239 W
115 24x9x218 W
116 24x9x198 W
117 24x9x181 W
118 24x9x163 W
119 24x9x146 W
120 24x9x128 W
121 24x9x114 W
122 24x9x103 W
123 24x7x62 W
124 24x7x55 W
125 21x12x275 W
126 21x12x248 W
127 21x12x223 W
128 21x12x201 W
129 21x12x182 W
130 21x12x166 W
131 21x12x147 W
132 21x12x132 W
133 21x12x122 W
134 21x12x111 W
135 21x12x101 W
136 21x8x93 W
137 21x8x83 W
138 21x8x73 W
139 21x8x68 W
140 21x8x2 W
141 21x6x57 W
142 21x6x50 W
143 21x6x44 W
144 18x7x71 W
145 18x7x65 W
146 18x7x60 W
147 18x7x55 W
148 18x7x50 W
149 18x6x46 W
150 18x6x40 W
Page 273
SuperSTRESS
APPENDIX
151 18x6x35 W
152 16x7x57 W
153 16x7x50 W
154 16x7x45 W
155 16x7x40 W
156 16x7x36 W
157 16x5x31 W
158 16x5x26 W
159 14x16x730 W
160 14x16x665 W
161 14x16x605 W
162 14x16x550 W
163 14x16x500 W
164 14x16x455 W
165 14x16x426 W
166 14x16x398 W
167 14x16x370 W
168 14x16x342 W
169 14x16x311 W
170 14x16x283 W
171 14x16x257 W
172 14x16x233 W
173 14x16x219 W
174 14x16x211 W
175 14x16x193 W
176 14x16x176 W
177 14x16x159 W
178 14x16x145 W
179 14x14x132 W
180 14x14x120 W
181 14x14x109 W
182 14x14x99 W
183 14x14x90 W
184 14x6x38 W
185 14x6x34 W
186 14x6x30 W
187 14x5x26 W
188 14x5x22 W
189 12x12x336 W
190 12x12x305 W
191 12x12x279 W
Page 274
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APPENDIX
192 12x12x252 W
193 12x12x230 W
194 12x12x210 W
195 12x12x190 W
196 12x12x170 W
197 12x12x152 W
198 12x12x136 W
199 12x12x120 W
200 12x12x106 W
201 12x12x96 W
202 12x12x87 W
203 12x12x79 W
204 12x12x72 W
205 12x12x65 W
206 12x4x22 W
207 12x4x19 W
208 12x4x16 W
209 10x5x30 W
210 10x5x26 W
211 10x5x22 W
212 10x10x112 W
213 10x10x100 W
214 10x10x88 W
215 10x10x77 W
216 10x10x68 W
217 10x10x60 W
218 10x10x54 W
219 10x10x49 W
220 10x4x19 W
221 10x4x17 W
222 10x4x15 W
223 8x8x67 W
224 8x8x58 W
225 8x8x48 W
226 8x8x40 W
227 8x8x35 W
228 8x8x31 W
229 8x5x21 W
230 8x5x18 W
231 6x6x25 W
232 6x6x20 W
Page 275
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APPENDIX
233 6x6x15 W
Page 276
SuperSTRESS
13.
INDEX
Index
A
About SuperSTRESS................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 1
Accuracy................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 15, 16
Add special ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 135
Adding ................................ ................................ ....................... 90, 101, 104, 106, 120, 123, 129
Adding load areas ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 125
American (ASTM) wide flange beams ................................ ................................ .................... 270
Analyse................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....191
Analysis ................................ ................................ ............. 31, 187, 190, 192, 193, 200, 201, 203
Angles................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......258
Annotation ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 181
Application icon ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 2
Area loading ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 185
Area loads................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 68, 69, 71
Assumptions ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 1
Auto redraw ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 180
AutoCAD................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 17, 20
Axes................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 9, 10, 13, 178
Axial release ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 50
B
Balance ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 201, 202
Basic load entries................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 129
Basic load entries format ................................ ................................ ................................ .........166
Basic loads................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 156, 166
Basic loads entries format................................ ................................ ................................ ........166
Basic loads table ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 156
Bay ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 29
Behaviour ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....1
Beta angle ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 9, 10, 50, 152
BS5950-2000................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 13
C
c ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 14
Cartesian axes................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 9
Castellated sections ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 260
Changing ................................ ................................ ................... 88, 100, 103, 105, 119, 122, 128
Changing load areas................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 124
Channels ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..258
CHS ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 44
Circular hollow sections ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........232
Circular welded hollow sections................................ ................................ .............................. 244
Coefficient of linear thermal expansion................................ ................................ ............... 33, 64
Coincident members ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 171
Colour................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 184, 185
Combination load entries format ................................ ................................ ............................. 167
Combination loads................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 160, 167
Compression ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 14
Compression-only members ................................ ................................ .............................. 52, 193
Concentrated load................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 57
Concrete sections................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 36
Conventions................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 14
Convergence................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 188
Convergence tolerance ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 195
Co-ordinate systems ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 9
Copy ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 91, 93, 94
Copying ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 91, 109, 159
Page 277
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D
Data consistency check................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 192
Decimal places................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 17
Defaults ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 16, 17
Deflection ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 84, 218
Delete surface loadcases ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........197
Deleting ................................ ................................ ......91, 102, 104, 108, 121, 123, 131, 178, 196
Deleting load areas ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 127
Density ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 33, 59
Detailed span values ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 223
Diagrams ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...14
Dimensionless ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 16
Dispersal method ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 71
Dispersion................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..71
Displacement load ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 56
Displacements ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 85, 218
Distortion load ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 63
Dividing members ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 118
DOS programs ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 227
Drawing ................................ ................................ ..................... 88, 100, 102, 118, 121, 128, 182
Drawing interaction ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 88
Drawing load areas ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 124
E
E ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 32
Elasticity................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....32
End1 ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........50
End2 ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........50
Envelope................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..216
Equilibrium................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 51, 201, 202, 219
Equilibrium check ................................ ................................ ............................. 71, 192, 201, 202
Errors................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 200, 201, 202, 203
European I Beams................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 268
European wide flange beams ................................ ................................ ................................ ...265
Expansion ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..33
Explorer view ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 72, 196
Export ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 20, 139, 140
Export CAD................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 20
Export text ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 139, 140
F
File management ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 17
Filters................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 148, 151, 152, 153, 154
Fonts ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........185
Force diagram................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 222
Formats................................ ................. 15, 16, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 182, 224, 225
Free................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 49
Full distortion load ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 63
Full load................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....58
Full table................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..216
G
G ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 32
General rood truss................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 30
General section ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 33
General truss................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 27
Geometric section................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 34
Getting started ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 2
Page 278
SuperSTRESS
INDEX
Graphical output ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 14

Graphics ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 75, 76, 79, 180
Graphics properties................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 78, 196
Gravity................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .......33
Grid................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 4
Grid frame ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...4
Grillage................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........4
Grillage slab section ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 145
H
h ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 14
Hatching ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..181
Haunch section ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 35
Heat ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 33
Hinge ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........50
Hogging ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....14
Hollow conic section properties ................................ ................................ ................................ 44
Hollow rectangle section properties................................ ................................ ........................... 41
H-section properties................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 48
I
Idealisation ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..1
Ill conditioning ................................ ................................ .......... 51, 171, 191, 192, 200, 201, 202
Import ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 17, 136, 137
Import CAD................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 17
Import text ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 136, 137
Influence lines ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 62, 196
Influence surfaces ................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 81, 82, 196
Input ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..77, 211
Input labels ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 78
Input tables ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 141, 161, 211
In-span forces format................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 225
Integer................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........17
Integrated software ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 226, 227
Interrupt analysis ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 191
Interrupt frequency ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 188
Intersecting members................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 117, 182
Intersection tolerance................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 117, 182
I-section properties ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 46
J
Job summary................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 212
Job summary output ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 212
Job titles format ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 162
Joint .......................... 49, 55, 56, 88, 90, 91, 93, 94, 95, 96, 98, 99, 148, 164, 174, 196, 218, 224
Joint adding ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 90
Joint changing................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 88
Joint concentrated load ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 55
Joint coordinates ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 49
Joint copying ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 91, 93, 94
Joint deleting ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 91
Joint displacements................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 218
Joint displacements format ................................ ................................ ................................ ......224
Joint effects................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 161, 167
Joint effects format ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 167
Joint effects table................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 161
Joint format................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 164
Joint load ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...55
Joint merging ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 90, 91, 95
Page 279
SuperSTRESS
INDEX
Joint moving ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 95, 96, 98, 99

Joint re-ordering ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 174
Joint tab ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...157
Joint table ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 148
Joints table ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 212
Joints table output................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 212
L
Labels ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........78
Large displacement analysis ................................ ................................ .................... 188, 190, 196
Length coefficients ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 65
Limits ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........51
Limits tables ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 51
Linear analysis................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 193
Linear load................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .61
Linking programs ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 226
Load................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 68, 128, 129, 131
Load action ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 54
Load adding ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 129
Load area graphics properties ................................ ................................ ................................ ....78
Load areas................................ ................................ .............. 65, 68, 78, 124, 125, 127, 155, 215
Load areas format ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 165
Load areas table................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 155, 215
Load areas table output................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 215
Load axes................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 54, 68
Load changing ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 128
Load deleting ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 131
Load drawing................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 128
Load factor ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 53
Load global axes................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 54
Load increments ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 193
Load joint ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..55
Load joint displacement................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 56
Load length coefficients ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 65
Load member axes................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 54
Load member concentrated................................ ................................ ................................ ........57
Load member distortion................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 62, 196
Load member full ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 58
Load member linear................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 61
Load member self weight ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........59
Load member uniform ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 60
Load projected axes ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 54
Load scales ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 83
Load sign convention................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 14
Load spacing................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 69, 185
Load temperature change................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 64
Load translation ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 69, 71
Load type ................................ ............................ 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 68
Loadcase................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....53
Loadcase basic................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 53
Loadcase combination ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 53
Loadcase entries ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 215
Loadcase entries output ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 215
Loadcase pattern ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 53
Loadcase sets ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 80, 156
Loadcase titles ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 53, 166, 215
Loadcase titles format................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 166
Loadcase titles output ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 215
Loading................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......14
L-Section ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...48
Page 280
SuperSTRESS
INDEX
M
Material ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 32, 142, 163
Material format................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 163
Material name................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 33
Material table................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 142
Material type................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 50
Materials table ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 212
Materials table output ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 212
Maximum deflection................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 193
Maximum span forces ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 221
Maximum value................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 216, 223
Mechanism ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 51, 200, 202
Member ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....50
Member adding................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 107
Member axes ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 10, 196
Member changing ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 105
Member coincident ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 171
Member concentrated load ................................ ................................ ................................ ........57
Member copy................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 110, 112
Member copying................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 109, 110, 112
Member deleting................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 108
Member distortion ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 62, 196
Member dividing ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 118
Member effects ................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 161, 168, 198
Member effects format ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 168
Member effects table ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 161
Member end forces ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 219, 224
Member end forces format................................ ................................ ................................ .......224
Member end stresses................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 220, 225
Member force diagram ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 222
Member format................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 164
Member full distortion load ................................ ................................ ................................ .......63
Member full load ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 58
Member intersecting ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 117
Member limits ................................ ................................ ................... 52, 122, 123, 154, 165, 190
Member limits adding................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 123
Member limits changing ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........122
Member limits deleting................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 123
Member limits described ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 52
Member limits drawing ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 121
Member limits format ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 165
Member limits table................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 154, 214
Member limits table output................................ ................................ ................................ ......214
Member linear load................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 61
Member merging ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 91, 95
Member mirroring ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 112, 115
Member move................................ ................................ ................................ .. 113, 114, 115, 116
Member moving ................................ ................................ ...................... 112, 113, 114, 115, 116
Member releases ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 50
Member re-ordering................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 175
Member re-ordering ends ................................ ................................ ................................ ........176
Member rotating ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 110, 114
Member self weight ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 59
Member strain................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 65
Member tab................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 158
Member table................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 152
Member uniform load ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 60
Members table ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 214
Members table output ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 214
Merge ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......182
Merge joints................................ ................................ ....................... 96, 107, 109, 113, 171, 182
Page 281
SuperSTRESS
INDEX
Merge members ................................ ................................ ................. 96, 108, 110, 113, 173, 182
Mesh ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....23, 24
Mesh generation ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 24
Method of analysis ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 193
Minimum value ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 216, 223
Mirror plane................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 95, 98, 115
Mirrored ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 94, 98, 112, 115
Mirrored joint copy................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 94
Mirrored joint move................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 98
Mirrored member copy ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 112
Mirrored member move................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 115
Modulus................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....32
Modulus of rigidity................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 32, 35, 200
Moment release ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 50
Moving joints ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 95
Moving members................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 112
Multiple structures................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 201
N
Name ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........33
New job wizard................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 22
Node difference ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 49
Non-linear analysis ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 188, 193
Numbering schemes ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 49
Numerical display................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 15
O
Octagon section properties ................................ ................................ ................................ ........45
One-way supports ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 51, 193
Options ................................ ................................ .................... 179, 180, 182, 184, 185, 187, 189
Options SuperSTRESS ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 179, 189
Orientation................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 10, 11, 33, 77
Origin ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........49
Out of balance ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 200, 202
Outline................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .33, 77
Output................................ ................................ ........................ 14, 209, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215
Output detailed span values ................................ ................................ ................................ .....223
Output envelope................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 216
Output full table................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 216
Output joint displacements ................................ ................................ ................................ ......218
Output loadcases................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 216
Output maximum values................................ ................................ ................................ ..........216
Output member end forces................................ ................................ ................................ .......219
Output member end stresses ................................ ................................ ................................ ....220
Output member force diagrams ................................ ................................ ............................... 222
Output minimum values ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........216
Output of input tables ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 211
Output reports................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 209
Output results ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 215
Output results filters ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 216
Output results loadcases ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........217
Output results tables ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 217
Output support reactions................................ ................................ ................................ ..........218
Output tables................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 209
Output torsional stresses ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........220
Overview ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....1
Overview SuperSTRESS ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 1
Page 282
SuperSTRESS
INDEX
P
Page header................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 22
Paste special ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 132
Pattern load entries format................................ ................................ ................................ .......167
Pattern loadcase ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 159
Pattern loading................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 159, 167
Pattern loads format................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 167
Pattern loads table................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 159
P-delta analysis................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 193
Pen settings................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 184
Pin ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 50
Plane frame................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..3
Plane truss................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....2
Plotting ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......14
Point distortion ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 62
Point distortion load ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 62
Poisson's ratio ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 32
Polar meshes................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 24, 27
Portal frame ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 29
Program access ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 227
Program link organisation................................ ................................ ................................ ........227
Program links ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 226, 227
Properties................................ ................................ ......................... 32, 34, 76, 77, 78, 79, 82, 84
Properties graphics ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 76, 196
Properties input................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 77
Properties introduction ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 76
Properties labels................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 78
Properties loadcases................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 79
Properties results ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 84
Properties scales ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 82, 196
Purge files................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 170
Q
Quadrilateral meshes ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 25, 26
R
Reactions ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 218, 225
Recombine loadcases................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 187, 190
Rectangular hollow sections ................................ ................................ ................................ ....246
Rectangular meshes ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 24, 25
Relative stiffness ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 200
Release ................................ ................................ ........................ 50, 51, 119, 120, 121, 153, 164
Release adding................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 120
Release changing ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 119
Release deleting................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 121
Release draw................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 118
Release format ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 164
Release table................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 153
Releases table ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 214
Releases table output ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 214
Remove gaps ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 170
Re-order................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...174
Re-order joints ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 174
Re-order member ends................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 176
Re-order members ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 175
Report Wizard ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 209, 210
Reports ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....209
Restraint ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 49, 52
Result................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 84, 215, 216, 217
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Result filters ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 216

Result graphics ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 84
Result labels ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 78
Result loadcases................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 217
Result scales ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 82
Result tables ................................ ................................ ............................ 217, 218, 219, 220, 222
RHS ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 41
Rigid ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........49
Roof truss ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..28
Rotation ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 11, 147
Rotation angle................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 94
Rotation axis................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 93, 97, 114
Rotational ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 93, 96, 110, 114
Rotational joint copy ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 93
Rotational joint move ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 96
Rotational member copy................................ ................................ ................................ ..........110
Rotational member move................................ ................................ ................................ .........114
Rounding ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .200
Round-off ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 200
Running ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .......2
S
s ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 14
Sagging................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......14
Save file format setting................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 178
Save stiffness matrix................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 187, 190
Scales................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........82
Section................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 33, 34, 35, 36, 144, 163
Section concrete................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 36
Section format ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 163
Section general ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 33
Section geometric ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 34
Section geometry definition................................ ............................. 39, 41, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48
Section geometry definition hollow conic ................................ ................................ ................. 44
Section geometry definition hollow rectangle ................................ ................................ ........... 41
Section geometry definition H-Section................................ ................................ ...................... 48
Section geometry definition I-Section ................................ ................................ ....................... 46
Section geometry definition L-Section ................................ ................................ ...................... 48
Section geometry definition octagon ................................ ................................ ......................... 45
Section geometry definition solid conic ................................ ................................ .................... 43
Section geometry definition solid rectangle................................ ................................ ............... 41
Section geometry definition T-Section ................................ ................................ ...................... 47
Section haunch................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 35
Section orientation................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 33, 77
Section outlines ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 33, 77
Section SCI................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 33
Section standard................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 144
Section table ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 144
Section tapered ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 36
Section type ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 36, 50
Sections table................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 212
Sections table output................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 212
Self weight................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 14, 33, 59
Settings ................................ ................................ .............................. 17, 180, 182, 184, 185, 187
Settings analysis ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 187
Settings colours ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 184
Settings drawing ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 182
Settings font................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 185
Settings graphics................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 180
Settings units ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 182
Shear................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 32, 34, 35, 199
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Shear area ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 34, 35

Shear component of deflection ................................ ................................ ................................ 199
Shear deflections ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 199
Shear deformation ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 32, 34
Shear displacement ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 34
Shear modulus ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 32, 199
SHS ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 41
Sign conventions ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 9, 14, 219, 223
Significant figures ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 16
Skew meshes ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 24, 26
Snap................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........182
Snap gap ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..182
Snap grid ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .182
Snap origin ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 182
Solid conic section properties ................................ ................................ ................................ ....43
Solid rectangle section properties ................................ ................................ .............................. 41
Sort ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 174, 176, 177
Space frame ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .6
Space truss................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...5
Span direction................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 65
Specific tables................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 141
Specific weight ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 33
Speed of solution ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 200
Spring ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........49
Spring supports................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 49
SS-SURF ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .196
SS-SURF surfaces format................................ ................................ ................................ ........225
SS-SURF tables ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 161
Standard................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....16
Steel drawing interaction ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 88
Steel section axes................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 13
Steel section tables ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 144, 228
Strain ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........65
Strain load................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..65
Stress ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .........33
Stretch origin ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 99, 116
Stretched joint move ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 99
Stretched member move ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........116
Structure ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....83
Structure form................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 22, 23
Structure scales................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 82
Structure sets ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 156
Structure type ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 22
Structure Wizard................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 23
Sub Frame................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 7, 36
SuperMODEL ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 227
SuperSTEEL................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 13
SuperSTRESS ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 1
Support ................................ ................................ .............................. 49, 100, 101, 102, 149, 164
Support adding................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 101
Support changing................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 100
Support deleting................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 102
Support drawing ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 100
Support format................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 164
Support joint ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 49
Support limits ................................ ................................ ............ 51, 102, 103, 104, 150, 165, 190
Support limits format................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 165
Support limits table................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 213
Support limits table output................................ ................................ ................................ .......213
Support reactions ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 218, 225
Support reactions format ................................ ................................ ................................ .........225
Support table................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 149
Supports table ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 213
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Supports table output ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 213

Surfaces ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...224
Surfaces format................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 225
Surfaces table ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 224
T
t ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 14
Table................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........132
Table basic loads ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 156
Table combination loads................................ ................................ ................................ ..........160
Table formats................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 132, 162
Table input................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 141, 161
Table joints ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 148
Table materials ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 142
Table member limits ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 154
Table members ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 152
Table operations ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 132
Table pattern loadcases................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 159
Table releases ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 153
Table sections ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 144
Table specific ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 141
Table support limits ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 150
Table supports ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 149
Table titles ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 141
Table view ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .75
Tabulated output................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 14
Taper section ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 36
Tee sections ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 263
Temperature................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 33
Temperature change ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 64
Temperature variation................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 64
Tension ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......14
Tension-only members ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 52, 193
Text................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..137, 140
Thermal expansion ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 64
Titles................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....22, 31
Titles table ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 141, 212
Titles table output ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 212
Toolbars................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....75
Tools................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........169
Tools delete results ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 178
Tools flip axes ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 178
Tools merge joints ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 171
Tools merge members ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 173
Tools remove gaps................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 170
Tools re-order joints ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 174
Tools re-order member ends ................................ ................................ ................................ ....176
Tools re-order members................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 175
Tools Wizards................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 169
Tool-tip................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....193
Torsional constant ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 34
Torsional release................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 50
Torsional stresses................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 220
Translational ................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 93, 96, 110, 113
Translational joint copy ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 93
Translational joint move ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 96
Translational member copy ................................ ................................ ................................ .....110
Translational member move ................................ ................................ ................................ ....113
Truss ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........27
Truss braced Vierendeel ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 27
Truss double fan ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 28
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Truss Fink................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..28

Truss general ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 27
Truss Howe................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 27
Truss lattice ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 27
Truss Pratt................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..27
Truss roof ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..28
Truss single fan................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 28
Truss special ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 28
Truss Warren ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 27
T-section................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....47
T-section properties ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 47
U
UK steel sections ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 228
Uniform load ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 60
Units ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 15, 16, 182, 196
Units and format settings ................................ ................................ ................................ .........182
V
Vertical members................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 11, 187
Verticality tolerance ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 10, 187
W
Weight ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .......33
Wizards................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 22, 23, 169
Working folder ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 200
World steel sections................................ ................................ ................................ . 265, 268, 270
Y
Young's modulus ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 32
Page 287

Superstress User Manual: Issue 6.5C September 2006

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SuperSTRESS

Integer and the Integer logo are registered trademarks.

Explorer view ............................................................................................. 72

Graphics view ............................................................................................. 75

Graphics properties ..................................................................................... 76

INPUT TABLES .....................................................................132

Basic load entries format .................................................................. 166

Tools overview ......................................................................................... 169

Analysis overview .................................................................................... 190

10.1 Output overview ....................................................................................... 209

APPENDIX - STEEL SECTION TABLES..........................228

12.1 UK steel sections ...................................................................................... 228

SuperSTRESS is an evolution of STRESS (STRuctural Engineering Systems Solver)

The model analysed by SuperSTRESS is an idealisation of the actual structure. All

all members are slender and straight between joints

The following types of non-linear analysis are available:

large displacement analysis, where the actual displacements are used to

Non-linear analysis is carried out in SuperSTRESS on an iterative basis with small

Dy, Dz, Ty, Tz

Load Actions (global) -

FX, FZ, DX, DZ

Load Actions (local)

For a definition of Beta refer to Member axes .

Ax, Az, Cz, Dy, Dz, Ty, Tz

Dx, Dy, Dz, Rz

Fz, Mx, My, Dz, Rx, Ry

Fx, Fy, Mz, Dx, Dy, Rz

Load Actions (local) -

Load Actions (global) -

All but Joint concentrated,

Dx, Rx, Ry, Rz

Sub frames are a subset of plane frames.

All members must be horizontal or vertical, ie they must be either parallel

Local axis systems are not available.

Load Actions (local) Load Axes

The positions of joints in a structure are specified by co-ordinates in a Cartesian frame

SuperSTRESS requires Ax only. Bending of members is not

Bending occurs about the member y-axis. Torsion occurs about

Bending can occur about both the member y and z-axes.

The member axes are denoted x, y and z (lower case).

Floating point calculations performed by a computer usually incorporate rounding

Steel section axes

Export CAD that

One of a pair of radio buttons that specifies what axis

One of a pair of radio buttons that controls what happens

Picking this button results in the imported joints and

Pick Next to move to the second page of the dialog.

Max chord length

If the Generate from ARCs box is ticked, then this field

One of a pair of radio buttons that specifies what axis

Export to DXF Overwrite

One of a pair of radio buttons that controls what

This button is always OFF and dimmed, so the

Pick Next to move to the second page of the dialog.

A drop down selection list containing the names of all the

The member centrelines will be coloured blue.

New job wizard

enter a string of characters (max 49)

as above (max 19)

this is automatically entered as today's date by SuperSTRESS,

enter a unit for length to be used in the Structure Wizard. This

enter a unit for angles to be used in the Structure Wizard. This

this provides a choice of six structural types: