## Learn how to maximize efficiency and design versatility with HSS in structural engineering.

#### In partnership with 
[![logo-atlastube.png](https://clearcalcs-prod2-cms.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/logo_atlastube_91385ffc4e.png)](https://www.atlastube.com/)

### About this event

Hollow Structural Sections (HSS) have emerged as a revolutionary construction material in today's engineering projects. These innovative sections, characterized by their hollow, tubular shape, are fundamentally changing the way structural engineers approach design and construction. HSS materials have gained prominence for several compelling reasons:
- HSS offers exceptional strength-to-weight ratios. Their hollow structure allows for efficient distribution of loads, making them ideal for applications where weight reduction is crucial while maintaining structural integrity.
- HSS sections are easy to fabricate, cut, and weld, reducing labor and production costs. This ease of handling adds to their appeal for engineers and builders alike.
- As sustainability becomes increasingly important in construction, HSS's recyclability and reduced environmental impact are noteworthy. Using HSS can contribute to green building practices.

Join Brad Fletcher, S.E., Senior Sales Engineer at Atlas Tube, on **Wednesday, November 15th, 2023, at 1 pm Eastern Time (ET)**, as we delve into the world of HSS and its transformative potential in structural engineering.

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- What are HSS and how are they made?
- Why are HSS used?
- Understanding HSS specifications

### Webinar Resources 
- [Presentation](https://www2.clearcalcs.com/l/944993/2023-11-19/6lfxlt/944993/1700442839SM8bKCLU/2023_11_15_Atlas_Tube_Understanding_HSS_Specifications.pdf)

### Webinar Summary

The webinar, presented by Brad Fletcher, Senior Sales Engineer at Atlas Tube, focused on the specifications and applications of Hollow Structural Sections (HSS) in structural design.

#### HSS Manufacturing Process:

Brad explained the manufacturing process of HSS, which involves cold-forming hot-rolled coil into a round section, then welding it to form square or rectangular sections. He also discussed the electric resistance welding (ERW) method used in the production of HSS.

#### HSS Specifications:

Several specifications for HSS were discussed, including ASTM A500, ASTM A847, ASTM A1085, CSA G40.21, and API 5L. Each specification has different properties and applications, with ASTM A500 being the most common and preferred specification.

#### Fire Protection Considerations for HSS:

Brad highlighted the importance of fire protection when using HSS. He suggested using intumescent coatings for aesthetic situations where HSS is exposed. Another option mentioned was filling the HSS with concrete, which acts as a heat sink and provides additional fire protection.

#### Transportation and Length of HSS:

The webinar addressed the challenges of transporting long lengths of HSS, with the maximum length produced being up to 100 feet for square and rectangular sections, and up to 135 feet for round sections.

#### Q&A Summary:

**Question: How do you ship a 100-foot length of HSS?**
Answer: Transportation becomes an issue for such long lengths. They are typically transported via barge or rail cars with special load requirements.

**Question: What type of electrodes are used for wire weld?**
Answer: In the ERW process, there are no electrodes used. For other processes like SAW, the specific type of electrode would depend on the manufacturer.

**Question: Is stress relief required after rolling the sections?**
Answer: Typically, stress relief is not required for normal applications. However, in structures where a lot of welding is done, proper heat treatment during welding can help avoid distortion.

**Question: What are the fire protection considerations with HSS?**
Answer: Fire protection can be achieved by using intumescent coatings or filling the HSS with concrete. The choice depends on the specific application and aesthetic considerations.

Senior Sales Engineer, Atlas Tube

North America Engineering Team Lead

Learn how to maximize efficiency and design versatility with HSS in structural engineering.

The Atlas Tube Advantage: HSS Specification and Its Applications in Structural Design

## Learn how to quickly analyze and design open web steel joists for your next structural project!

### About this event

Although open web steel joists (OWSJs) offer various benefits for structural projects, such as long spans, lightweight construction, and easy integration with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, designing with OWSJs can present some challenges for structural engineers, especially in residential or light commercial projects.

Some of the most common challenges include limited design flexibility due to standardized shapes and sizes, making it difficult to accommodate specific architectural or spatial requirements. Engineers also need to carefully consider proper load distribution when designing with OWSJs to ensure that loads are adequately distributed and prevent overloading individual joists. Additionally, connecting OWSJs with other structural elements, including beams, columns, and walls, requires careful consideration to ensure proper connections and load transfer, which is essential for maintaining structural integrity.

Join Laurent Gérin, P.Eng., North America Engineering Team Lead, on **Wednesday 25 October 2023, from 1 pm to 2 pm Eastern Time (ET)** to learn more about open web steel joists (OWSJ) and how they can be advantageous in residential and light commercial structures applications. 

We will discuss common design considerations for OWSJ and go through the step-by-step procedures of OWSJ analysis and design. We will also showcase ClearCalcs' latest [Open Web Steel Joist Calculator](https://clearcalcs.com/calculations/steelJoistsASD) and how users can utilize the platform with its many time-saving features to speed up their workflow, saving valuable engineering time.

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- Introduction to Open Web Steel Joists (OWSJ)
    - Definition and purpose of OWSJ in residential and light commercial structures
    - Benefits of using OWSJ in construction projects
- Structural Analysis and Design of OWSJ
    - Overview of the design process for OWSJ, including software tools and resources
    - Key factors to consider when designing OWSJ, such as deflection, stability, and connection details
- ClearCalcs Open Web Steel Joist Calculator & Worked Examples

### Webinar Summary 

#### Introduction

The webinar began with an introduction to Open Web Steel Joists Analysis and Design. Laurent provided a brief overview of the topic, setting the stage for the detailed discussion that followed.

#### Benefits of Using Steel Joists in Building Construction

Laurent highlighted the advantages of using steel joists in building construction. These include efficiency, long spans, and architectural freedom. They explained how these benefits make steel joists a preferred choice for many architects and builders.

#### Challenges in Designing with Steel Joists

Despite the numerous benefits, there are also challenges associated with designing with steel joists. Laurent discussed these in detail, including non-uniform loads, stress reversal, bracing, and fire protection. They provided insights into how these challenges can be addressed effectively.

#### Designing Steel Joists Using ClearCalcs Software

Laurent demonstrated how to design steel joists using ClearCalcs software. They walked through the process step-by-step, providing practical examples along the way. Special considerations for rooftop units and snow drifts were also discussed.

#### Conclusion

The webinar concluded on a fun note with a Halloween challenge. Participants were encouraged to share their spooky or challenging projects for a chance to win ClearCalcs swag. 

In conclusion, the webinar provided a comprehensive overview of Open Web Steel Joists Analysis and Design. It offered valuable insights into the benefits and challenges of using steel joists in building construction, as well as practical guidance on how to design them using ClearCalcs software.

Structural Engineer

Learn how to quickly analyze and design open web steel joists for your next structural project!

Open Web Steel Joists Analysis and Design

## Learn more about the Girder-Slab® System (GSS) to increase efficient design for the growing demand for more affordable housing developments.

#### In partnership with 
[![The GIRDER-SLAB® system](https://clearcalcs-prod2-cms.s3.amazonaws.com/gstlogo_2d2b89a48d.png)
](https://www.girder-slab.com/)

### About this event

[The Girder-Slab® System (GSS)](https://www.girder-slab.com/introduction), structural solution for buildings, was developed a few decades ago as a simplified and cost-efficient floor plate alternative to conventional methods of construction.  The premise of its genesis was to supplant alternate forms that were too labor dependent, costly, and subject to multiple inhibiting factors that prolonged efficient structural installation and overall building progress.

[Girder-Slab Technologies, LLC,](http://www.girder-slab.com/) has successfully developed the GSS, a unique dissymmetric steel beam integrated compositely with pre-cast, hollow-core planks, through testing and analysis and shares the method of design with the North American engineering community for application on primarily multi-family, multi-story residential and hospitality projects, albeit this method of construction is expanding to other building sectors.

Join Connor Conzelman, ClearCalcs’ Director of Customer Success, on **Wednesday, October 11th, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm Eastern Time (ET)** as he engages in a conversation with [Peter Timler, M.Sc., P.Eng., P.E., S.E., Girder-Slab Technologies’ Chief Technical Officer](https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-timler-1a76443b/?originalSubdomain=ca).

The GSS has been applied to many hundreds of projects across the continent and now is being utilized for developments overseas.  Because it is such a simplified and lighter method of floor framing installation, numerous other benefits result that expand on return on investment for building owners.

This webinar provides a unique opportunity to obtain an understanding of this innovative structural solution including demonstration of the Design Tool V3.4.

### In this webinar, we will cover:

- Introduction to Girder-Slab Technologies, LLC;
- Fundamentals of the GSS
- General responses to frequently asked questions;
    - Composite Action;
    - Efficient Framing Layouts;
    - Opportunity to Increase Spans;
    - Fire Protection Methods; and
    - Sound Transmission, to name a few.
- Design Example Layout for GSS; and 
- Sample Demonstration of Design Tool V3.4 (US LRFD (Imperial)).

### Webinar Summary

#### Introduction to the Webinar

The webinar was an enlightening session on the Girder-Slab® System and Design Tool V3.4. 

The hosts for this informative event were Connor Conzelman, ClearCalcs’ Director of Customer Success, and Peter Timler, M.Sc., P.Eng., P.E., S.E., Girder-Slab Technologies’ Chief Technical Officer. They provided a comprehensive overview of the system, its benefits, applications, and successful projects.

#### Benefits and Applications of the Girder-Slab System

Peter discussed the numerous advantages of the Girder-Slab system. One of the key benefits highlighted was the speed of construction. The system allows for quick assembly, significantly reducing the time required for building projects. 

Another advantage is the slim floor profile that the Girder-Slab system offers. This feature allows for more floors within the same overall building height, making it an ideal choice for multi-story buildings.

Cost savings were also emphasized during the discussion. The Girder-Slab system can lead to significant cost reductions in terms of both material and labor expenses, making it a cost-effective solution for construction projects.

#### Successful Projects Utilizing the Girder-Slab System

Peter showcased several successful projects that have utilized the Girder-Slab system. These examples served to illustrate the practical application and effectiveness of the system in real-world scenarios. 

Attendees were given insights into how the system has been used to achieve efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality construction outcomes.

#### Q&A Session

At the end of the webinar, there was a question and answer session where attendees had the opportunity to clarify their doubts. 

Some of the questions asked and their answers included:

**Question**: What types of projects are most suitable for the Girder-Slab system?
**Answer**: The Girder-Slab system is particularly well-suited for multi-story residential and commercial buildings due to its slim floor profile and speed of construction.

**Question**: How does the Girder-Slab system contribute to cost savings?
**Answer**: The system can lead to significant cost reductions by minimizing labor costs due to faster construction times, and reducing material costs through efficient design and utilization.

**Question**: Can the Girder-Slab system be used in conjunction with other construction methods?
**Answer**: Yes, the Girder-Slab system is versatile and can be integrated with other construction methods to meet specific project requirements.

Peter encouraged attendees to reach out for more information or technical support regarding the Girder-Slab system and Design Tool V3.4.


Director of Customer Success

Chief Technical Officer, Girder-Slab Technologies

Learn more about the Girder-Slab® System (GSS) to increase efficient design for the growing demand for more affordable housing developments.

Introduction to the Girder-Slab® System and Design Tool V3.4

## Learn how to perform flexible diaphragm analysis with ClearCalcs.

### About this event

Diaphragm analysis is a crucial aspect of structural design that involves the evaluation and assessment of the behavior and performance of diaphragms within a building or structure. 

Diaphragms are horizontal or nearly horizontal elements, such as floors or roofs, that transfer loads between vertical elements, such as walls or columns. They are vital in distributing lateral forces, such as wind or seismic loads, throughout the structure. By analyzing the diaphragm's response to these forces, engineers can ensure that the structure remains stable, resilient, and capable of withstanding various external loads. 

Accurate diaphragm analysis helps determine the appropriate design and reinforcement measures, ensuring the overall safety and integrity of the structure.

Join ClearCalcs structural expert, Tara Memarian, on **Wednesday, September 27th, from 1 pm to 2 pm Eastern Time (ET)**  to learn step-by-step procedures to analyze flexible diaphragms and gain valuable insights into how you can speed up the analysis process using available tools in ClearCalcs..

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- Introduction to flexible diaphragm analysis and its role in structural design
- Common use and applications of flexible diaphragms in residential and light commercial buildings
- Methods for analyzing flexible diaphragm
- How different tools can help speed up diaphragm analysis and related workflow, such as:
    - Designing and linking wind and seismic loads to diaphragms
    - Linking diaphragm loads into shear wall design
- Worked examples using [Diaphragm Analysis Calculator](https://clearcalcs.com/calculations/diaphragmAnalysis) in ClearCalcs

### Webinar Summary

#### Introduction 

The webinar begins with an introduction to ClearCalcs' new calculator, which is designed to assist engineers in analyzing diaphragms and linking lateral loads for shear wall design. The presenters explain the purpose of this tool and how it can simplify complex calculations.

#### Understanding the Role of Diaphragms in Structural Systems
The presenters delve into the role of diaphragms in structural systems, explaining that they are crucial in distributing loads. They discuss how loads are transferred into diaphragms and how this affects the overall stability and integrity of a structure.

#### Different Types of Diaphragms and Code Requirements
This section covers the different types of diaphragms used in construction, including rigid, semi-rigid, and flexible diaphragms. The presenters also discuss the code requirements for analyzing these diaphragms, providing insights into the standards that engineers must adhere to.

#### Demonstrations Using the Calculator
The presenters then demonstrate how to use the calculator through two work examples. They show how to link wind and seismic loads to the diaphragm analysis and shear wall calculators, illustrating the process step by step. This practical demonstration helps users understand how to effectively use the tool in their own work.

#### Upcoming Webinars and Feedback
Towards the end of the webinar, the presenters mention upcoming webinars on other topics related to structural engineering. They encourage participants to attend these future sessions for further learning. They also invite feedback on the calculator, emphasizing that user input is valuable in refining and improving the tool.

#### Conclusion
The webinar concludes with a summary of the key points discussed and a reminder of the importance of diaphragm analysis and lateral load linking in shear wall design. The presenters reiterate the benefits of using ClearCalcs' calculator for these tasks and encourage participants to make the most of this tool in their work.

**All registered attendees will receive a recording of the webinar after the event.**

Learn how to perform flexible diaphragm analysis with ClearCalcs.


Diaphragm Analysis and Lateral Load Linking for Shear Wall Design

## Learn how to easily calculate roof snow loads for residential or light commercial projects based on IBC 2021 requirements.

### About this event

Calculating snow loads is a critical aspect of structural engineering, and inaccurate assessments can pose significant threats to the safety and durability of a structure. As snow loads can vary significantly depending on location and environmental factors, it's essential to have access to reliable and precise methods to ensure the structural integrity of your designs.

Join Laurent Gérin, P.Eng., North America Engineering Team Lead, on **Wednesday, August 30th, 2023 from 1 pm to 2 pm Eastern Time (ET)**  to learn more about the step-by-step procedures to calculate snow loads according to the requirements of the International Building Code (IBC) 2021.

We will showcase how ClearCalcs' software takes the complexity out of snow load calculations. By considering critical parameters such as ground snow load, surface roughness, building importance, roof exposure, roof pitch, and thermal condition, our calculator provides you with reliable and accurate results. Whether you're working with sloped or flat roofs, ClearCalcs simplifies the process, saving you valuable time and effort.

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- Understanding the Importance of Accurate Snow Load Calculations
- Step-by-Step Guide to Calculating Snow Loads
- ClearCalcs Snow Load Calculator: Features & Capabilities
- Worked Examples Using Snow Load Calculator in ClearCalcs

### Resources
- [PowerPoint Presentation](https://www2.clearcalcs.com/l/944993/2023-08-30/6l629y/944993/1693446048Z49Fm0Uq/2023_08_30_Snow_Loads.pptx.pdf)

### Webinar Summary

In this webinar, Laurent Gérin discussed the importance of considering snow loads in structural design and provided insights into key factors that affect snow loads. The webinar covered topics such as ground snow load, surface roughness, roof exposure, thermal conditions, and unbalanced snow loads. Laurent also mentioned the upcoming changes in ASC 7-22 and demonstrated how to use the ClearCalcs snow load calculator.


Laurent Gérin, P.Eng., North America Engineering Team Lead, introduced the webinar and welcomed the participants. He emphasized the importance of considering snow loads in structural design and highlighted the key topics that would be covered during the webinar.

#### Ground Snow Load

Laurent explained that the ground snow load is a critical parameter in determining the snow loads on a structure. He mentioned that the ground snow load is typically measured at weather stations across the country and correlated with snow depth measurements. Laurent also mentioned that some areas may require site-specific studies to determine the ground snow load.

#### Surface Roughness and Roof Exposure

Laurent discussed the significance of surface roughness and roof exposure in determining snow loads. He explained that surface roughness refers to the roughness of the land around the building, while roof exposure considers the presence of obstructions that can affect the amount of snow on the roof. Laurent mentioned that these factors are important considerations in snow load calculations.

#### Thermal Condition of the Building

Laurent highlighted the impact of the thermal condition of the building on snow loads. He explained that the temperature inside the building can affect the melting of snow on the roof. Laurent mentioned that buildings with warm roofs or poorly insulated ceilings may experience slower snow melting, leading to higher snow loads.

#### Unbalanced Snow Load

Laurent discussed the concept of unbalanced snow load, which occurs when snow accumulates unevenly on a roof. He explained that wind and sun exposure can cause unbalanced snow loads. Laurent mentioned that for rafter systems with spans less than 20 feet, the unbalanced snow load is typically applied to one side of the roof.


#### ASC 7-22 Changes

Laurent briefly mentioned the upcoming changes in ASC 7-22, the latest version of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 7 standard. He explained that the new version includes a revised ground snow load map and adjustments to snow drift loads based on winter winds. Laurent highlighted that the adoption of ASC 7-22 by local jurisdictions may result in changes to snow load requirements.

#### ClearCalcs Snow Load Calculator

Laurent demonstrated the use of the ClearCalcs snow load calculator. He entered the location, Mammoth Lakes, California, and selected the appropriate parameters such as ground snow load, surface roughness, roof exposure, thermal condition, and roof properties. Laurent showed how the calculator automatically calculates the flat roof snow load and sloped roof snow load based on the input parameters.


#### Designing the Rafter

Laurent used the ClearCalcs wood beam calculator to design the rafter for the calculated snow load. He selected the appropriate rafter size and adjusted the load values to match the calculated snow load. Laurent demonstrated how the calculator determines whether the rafter passes or fails based on bending, shear, bearing, and deflection criteria.
 
In conclusion, Laurent emphasized the importance of considering snow loads in structural design, especially in areas prone to heavy snowfall. He encouraged participants to provide feedback on the ClearCalcs snow load calculator and announced upcoming webinars on related topics.

Learn how to easily calculate roof snow loads for residential or light commercial projects based on IBC 2021 requirements.

Calculating Snow Loads Per IBC 2021

## How to analyze seismic loads for residential and light commercial buildings

### About this event

Analyzing seismic loads is one of the critical considerations in structural design when designing residential or light commercial structures to ensure the safety of a building during an earthquake.

In the United States, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) publishes the Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures, commonly referred to as ASCE 7, as guidelines for the design of structures to resist various types of loads, including wind, snow, rain, and seismic loads.

Join ClearCalcs’ North America Engineering Team Lead, Laurent Gérin, P.Eng., on **Wednesday, July 26th, 2023, from 1 pm to 2 pm Eastern Time (ET)** to learn more about the procedures to determine seismic loads based on the ASCE 7-16. We’ll go into step-by-step procedures to identify the applicable site class to your building, how to obtain the required spectral parameters to model the building's response to ground motion and determine the forces that will be applied to the building's various components.

We’ll explain how you can save time in your design workflow by using the available tools and ClearCalcs calculators to analyze seismic loads for your design quickly.

### In this webinar, we will cover the following:
- General overview of seismic load analysis and how it applies to residential and light commercial structural design in the United States
- Procedures of seismic load analysis  using the linear static approach in Chapters 11 and 12 of the ASCE 7-16
- Worked examples using the Seismic Load Analysis calculator in ClearCalcs

### Webinar Summary

The webinar covers topics such as the ASCE 7-16 standard, site class, seismic design categories, and analysis methods. The webinar aims to provide an understanding of how to calculate seismic loads and design for them in residential construction.

The webinar also discussed the different methods of seismic analysis, including linear response spectrum analysis and nonlinear response history analysis. It emphasized the importance of considering configuration irregularities in the design process and highlighted the features of ClearCalcs that can assist engineers in calculating seismic loads and designing for them.

The current segment of the webinar focuses on the importance of understanding the seismic hazard levels in different regions and how they affect the design process. It also discusses the factors that contribute to the determination of seismic design categories, such as the site's proximity to active faults and the type of soil present.

The webinar goes on to explain the process of determining the site class, which is based on the soil conditions at the construction site. It emphasizes the significance of conducting a geotechnical investigation to accurately assess the soil properties and determine the appropriate site class.

Furthermore, the speaker discusses the different seismic design categories (SDCs) outlined in the ASCE 7-16 standard. These categories are determined by considering factors such as the importance of the structure, occupancy type, and risk tolerance. The SDC plays a crucial role in determining the level of seismic loads that need to be considered during the design process.

The webinar also covers various methods of seismic analysis, including linear response spectrum analysis and nonlinear response history analysis. It highlights the importance of considering configuration irregularities in the design process, such as vertical and horizontal irregularities, and provides guidance on how to address these issues.

Throughout the webinar, the speaker emphasizes the importance of using reliable tools and resources to calculate seismic loads and design for them. ClearCalcs, a software platform, is introduced as a valuable tool that can assist engineers in performing accurate calculations and ensuring compliance with seismic design requirements.

In conclusion, this webinar provides a comprehensive overview of seismic loads and analysis in residential construction. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the seismic hazard levels, determining the appropriate site class, and considering configuration irregularities. By utilizing reliable tools like ClearCalcs, engineers can effectively calculate seismic loads and design structures that can withstand seismic events.

How to analyze seismic loads for residential and light commercial buildings

Seismic Analysis to ASCE 7-16

## How to easily design steel base plates and anchor rods to the ACI 318-19 and AISC 360-16 code specifications.

### About this event

Designing steel base plates can involve complex calculations to determine the base plate thickness and anchor rod embedment depths according to the applied loads and relevant standards requirements such as the ACI 318-19 and AISC 360-16. 

Join ClearCalcs Structural Design Expert Eva Wu, on **Wednesday, 28 June 2023, at 1 pm Eastern Time (ET)** to learn more about how you can easily use ClearCalcs Steel Base Plate Calculator to perform the fast and efficient design of steel base plates and anchor rods under LRFD analysis.

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- An overview of steel base plate and its design components
- Common application of steel base plate in residential or light commercial design
- Design and material considerations
-- Geometry considerations
-- Forces acting on baseplate
-- Failure modes of baseplates
-- Base plate design
- Worked example in ClearCalcs 

### Resources
- [PowerPoint Presentation](https://www2.clearcalcs.com/l/944993/2023-06-29/6l1bhg/944993/1688090546w0J7JH9l/28.06.2023_Base_Plate_Design_US.pdf)

### Webinar Summary

The webinar was hosted by ClearCalcs Director of Customer Success, Connor Conzelman, and presented by Eva Wu, ClearCalcs Structural Engineer. The webinar covers the basics of base plate design, including what a base plate is, why it is important, and the forces and failure modes associated with base plates. It also includes a work example using ClearCalcs software.

Base plates are important in steel concrete interfaces because they help with leveling concrete and provide a set amount of tolerance between the foundation and column. The forces acting on base plates include plate bending and anchor forces, which can cause plate yielding or anchor failure. To prevent these failures, the plate should have adequate thickness and the anchors can be hooked or an anchor plate can be added.

The ClearCalcs steel base plate calculator dynamically calculates parameters based on the inputted force, and allows for checking anchor cancel capacity, pullout capacity, and shear capacity. It also checks for concrete breakout, side blowout, pry out, and sheer breakout, providing a comprehensive analysis of base plate design.

In the current segment, Eva continues with the design example and updates the dimensions of the base plate to accommodate the given column size and forces. She then calculates the required plate length and width based on the compressive strength and factored load. Eva also mentions that ClearCalcs can factor in unfactored forces for designing purposes.

In the current segment, Eva adjusts the dimensions of the base plate to ensure it can handle the required loads. She increases the plate thickness and length iteratively until all failure modes are accounted for. Additionally, she mentions that ClearCalcs is working on creating a reference list for their templates and encourages users to provide feedback and suggestions for future improvements.

During the webinar, Eva mentions that ClearCalcs can factor in unfactored forces for designing purposes. She also explains that the grout beneath the plate is considered in the calculations and that they are open to building features around stainless steel bolts if users require them. Additionally, Nathan asks about prying forces on the base plate, to which Eva responds that they track for overturning and adequate anchors but hadn't considered prying of the plate itself yet.

Structural Design Consultant

How to easily design steel base plates and anchor rods to the ACI 318-19 and AISC 360-16 code specifications.

Steel Base Plate Design to American Standards

## Learn how to design wind bracing system to Australian Standards - AS 4055 Wind Loads for Housing and AS 1684.2 Residential Timber Frame Construction

### About this event

Using the correct wind classification is critical in ensuring a building is designed to comply with the applicable local building standards. In Australia, the two standards that apply are the AS 4055: 2021: Residential Wind Actions and the AS/NZS 1170.2:2021: Structural design actions, Part 2: Wind actions. 

However, calculating wind loads for a residential building can be difficult and time-consuming. The parameters that go into wind calculations such as topographic parameters, shielding parameters, and terrain categories are often obtained based on guesstimates and may result in potentially unsafe or costly outcomes during or after the build. 

Join Qiming Liu, ClearCalcs' Structural Engineer, on **Wednesday, June 28th, 2023, from 12 pm to 1 pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST)** in this 2-webinar series on Wind Assessments Standards for residential buildings in Australia. 

In the second part of the series, Qiming will give an overview of the wind bracing design workflow to the AS 4055: 2021 and AS 1684.2 requirements. We will discuss the different site characteristics involved in the analysis, the affected building and what to do when your design fall outside the design limitations such as geometric limits, wind loads, torsional irregularities, large openings, etc. 

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- An overview of the workflow for designing a bracing system
-- Determining the "wind class" of your structure (AS 4055)
-- Determining total bracing requirements (AS 4055 / 1684.2 - overlaps them both)
-- Deciding upon the specific bracing type and how to lay it out (AS 1684.2)
- Site-specific characteristics for wind assessment
- Limitations to the wind bracing system design (geometric limits, wind loads, torsional irregularities, large openings, etc.)
- How to use ClearCalcs Wind Bracing Calculator & a worked example in ClearCalcs

### Resources
- [PowerPoint Presentation](https://www2.clearcalcs.com/l/944993/2023-06-27/6l149g/944993/1687921972ZbM02Fwz/2023_06_28___AS4055_AS1684.2_Wind.pdf)
- [SR337 Design guidance of specifically designed bracing systems in light timber-framed residential buildings (2015)](https://www.branz.co.nz/pubs/research-reports/sr337/)
- [AS 1684.2:2021 Appendix D Examples - Foundation bearing area, distribution of bracing and shear force](https://clearcalcs.com/share/standards/SA/AS-1684-2-2021-0/section/D)

You'll need to have an Ultimate plan to access the standards section directly. To upgrade, look for the Contact us button on [our pricing page](https://clearcalcs.com/pricing/au). Our team will be in touch.

### Webinar Summary

The presenter, Qiming Liu, discusses the different wind assessment standards and provides an overview of wind bracing for residential houses. The webinar aims to educate participants on how to determine wind class and calculate wind forces for structural design.

The presenter explains that AS 4055 and AS 1170.2 both consider environmental factors that impact wind speed, such as shielding, topography, and terrain. AS 4055 is specifically for residential houses, while AS 1170.2 can be applied to buildings less than 200 meters. The presenter also mentions the limitations of each standard and the simplified assumptions used in AS 4055.

The presenter then explains the seven-step design process for wall and subfloor bracings, which includes determining wind classification, calculating wind forces, designing the bracing system, and checking connections. They also briefly mention roof bracing, including pitched and gable roof bracings, as well as trust roofs, which require reference to another code for design details.

After determining the wind classification and calculating the horizontal racking force, the next step is to determine the wind pressures using table lookups in the standard. The wind pressures depend on the surface type of the roof, whether it's vertical or sloped. Once the wind pressures are determined, the total racking force can be calculated by multiplying them. The code also mentions the use of nominal wall bracings, which are internal linings of the building that can already take some of the racking force.

The presenter continues to explain the wind bracing requirements for residential houses, discussing the capacity and specifications for cross bracing and sheet bracing. They also mention the height modification and the option to increase capacity if using a different framing group. Additionally, they highlight the importance of evenly distributing the bracings and provide spacing requirements based on wind classes.

The presenter continues by discussing the spacing requirements for wind bracing, depending on the wind class and whether it is for a single or upper floor of a two-story building. They also mention the need to consider selling depths and provide proper connections for the bracing. The presenter concludes by introducing ClearCalcs' wind bracing calculator and encourages users to provide feedback for future improvements.

The presenter demonstrates how to use the ClearCalcs platform to design wind bracing for a residential building. They input the building configuration, wind class, roof pitch, and other parameters to calculate the area of elevation and wind pressures. The platform provides a summary of the design, including utilization percentages and recommendations for adjusting the design if necessary.

During the Q&A session of the webinar, participants raised questions about mixing bracing systems and the potential issues that may arise from using elements of different stiffness. The presenter mentioned that there are no restrictions in AS1684.2 regarding mixing systems or taps, but further investigation is needed to understand any potential torsional effects. Additionally, a participant shared their experience with using different bracing systems in New Zealand and how they maintained equal bracing demand across the building to ensure better performance.

The participants discuss the possibility of using a design program that allows for breaking up a building into separate compartments for bracing purposes, but they note that this approach may not comply with the codes. They also mention the importance of considering factors like frictional drag and the length of the building when designing the bracing system. The webinar concludes with a reminder to reach out with any further questions or feature requests for the calculator.

Learn how to design wind bracing system to Australian Standards - AS 4055 Wind Loads for Housing and AS 1684.2 Residential Timber Frame Construction

Wind Assessment Standards for Australian Residential Projects (Pt. 2)

## Discover how you can overcome the drawbacks of complicated connections and welds with simple HSS connections.

### About this event

Hollow Structural Steel (HSS) offers several advantages in structural design primarily due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, which enables them to bear significant loads while remaining lightweight - allowing for more efficient design with reduced material usage. 

However, HSS remains underutilized in the construction industry due to the lack of clear understanding among structural designers and engineers on how to apply HSS in structural design. Common misconceptions include concerns about the difficulty of welding or connection design. Due to their hollow structure, HSS requires specialized connection details and techniques to ensure adequate strength and stiffness. This requirement can introduce complexities in the design and construction process.

Join Connor Conzelman, ClearCalcs’ Director of Customer Success, on **Wednesday, June 7th, from 12.30 pm to 1.30 pm Eastern Time (ET)** as he engages in a conversation with **Ted Goldstein, PE, Atlas Tube’s Business Development Engineer and inventor of Shuriken Connectors**.

Shuriken Connectors represent Atlas Tube's latest revolutionary system for creating one-sided connections using standard bolts. They eliminate the need for complicated, one-sided fasteners and field-welding, simplifying the connection design process, saving time, and reducing the complexity of structural connections.

This webinar provides a unique opportunity to delve into the details of this innovative product and directly ask questions about how Shuriken Connectors can optimize your structural design.

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- Introduction to Atlas Tube
- Overview of Shuriken Connectors and Their Common Applications
- What is a Shuriken Connector?
- Why use Shuriken Connector?
- Most suitable applications for Shuriken Connectors
- Considerations in designing with Shuriken Connectors
- Design example with Shuriken Connectors

### Webinar Summary 

The webinar titled "Shuriken Connectors by Atlas Tube and Their Applications in Structural Design" is hosted by ClearCalcs Director of Customer Success, Connor Conzelman, and presented by Ted Goldstein, PE., Business Development Engineer, Atlas Tube and inventor of Shuriken Connectors. ClearCalcs is a cloud-based structural calculations software that combines powerful FEA analysis with user-friendly tools for steel, wood, timber, concrete, and cold-formed steel. The webinar aims to discuss the applications of Shuriken connectors in structural design.

The Shuriken connector is not a fastener, but rather a disposable wrench that holds a nut on the inside or inaccessible side of a connection and allows for standard bolts to be installed from one side. The system aims to avoid field welding, which can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and introduce uncertainty when it comes to scheduling an inspection.

The reason for the invention of Shuriken Connectors is to take advantage of the benefits of HSS columns, such as better efficiency and compression, improved aesthetics, and simpler connections. The tool allows for the use of HSS in more than two or three stories without having to weld splices, which has been a significant impediment to the adoption of HSS.

Ted Goldstein discusses various applications of Shuriken connectors, including beam connections, moment connections, and structured connections. The connectors can be mounted in the shop and easily bolted in the field, avoiding the need for time-consuming and labor-intensive field welding. Goldstein also notes that Shuriken connectors can be purchased directly from Atlas Tube or through a distributor.

The current segment focuses on a basic Shuriken connection example using an HSS tube with splice plates and slip-critical bolts. The bolts have a capacity of 8.81 kips per bolt, and the connection passes all limit state checks for gross section yielding, tension rupture, net section rupture, and block shear.

The webinar then delves into the calculations involved in designing a Shuriken connector connection, including gross section yielding, net section rupture, and block shear. The effective area of the material is calculated by subtracting the number of holes times the area of a single hole, with a factor of 0.93 to account for the possibility of thinner walls. The splice plate capacity is also checked against gross section yielding and net section rupture.

Ted Goldstein explains the failure modes that typically control for HSS connections, including block shear and rupture. He also notes that the splice plates were sufficient by a wide margin, with everything being over two hundred kips. Interested parties can visit the Atlas Tube website to download the datasheet and request a sample.

Ted Goldstein answers questions from the audience during the webinar, including the minimum HSS size required for welding the shuriken and whether the connectors can be used in wet or corrosive atmospheres. He also discusses the possibility of using shuriken connectors in composite sections with filled concrete, stating that there should be no reason why it would affect the capacity of the arrangement.

During the Q&A session, a participant asked if Shuriken connectors meet the standards of the maritime industry, to which Ted Goldstein responded that they have not had an application in shipping yet but are willing to work with interested parties to understand the requirements and certifications needed. Additionally, ClearCalcs has recently added new features such as diaphragm analysis, custom wood sections, and an open web steel joist calculator, and they are looking for feedback from light commercial design teams to shape future priorities.


Business Development Engineer,  Atlas Tube

Discover how you can overcome the drawbacks of complicated connections and welds with simple HSS connections.

Shuriken HSS Connections by Atlas Tube and Their Applications in Structural Design.

## The new engineering technologies enabling innovative, creative and accurate access to construction standards

### About this event 

[ClearCalcs have partnered with Standards Australia](https://www.epcgroup.com/aussie-software-specialist-clearcalcs-partners-with-standards-australia-to-re-engineer-the-standards-game/) to make it easier for engineers to better access, understand, and use relevant engineering standards in real time.

Australian Standards, which are primary references in the National Construction Code, will be integrated into the ClearCalcs platform, with the aim of making it easier for engineers to ensure they are complying with the industry's relevant codes while perfoming key calculations.

To celebrate this partnership, ClearCalcs will be hosting a panel discussion with **Daniel Chidgey, Standard Australia's Head of Commercial Partnerships**, and **Chris Borzillo, ClearCalcs' Co-Founder, and CEO** to inspire and engage the industry on the latest in engineering innovation.

The panel theme is: _“The new engineering technologies enabling innovative, creative and accurate access to construction standards”_

This is your opportunity to get behind the scenes of this industry-first partnership and get the first look at what the Australian Standards integration into ClearCalcs looks like - all while having the opportunity to ask questions directly to ClearCalcs and Standards Australia and unpack what this partnership means for your engineering workflow.

### In this webinar, we will cover: 
- Past and current access to engineering standards, and how technologies are changing it 
- Ways digital technologies improve access to engineering standards and better contribute to the needs of engineering communities
- Old vs new - finding the balance between knowledge earnt and knowledge learnt

### Webinar Summary

The document is a transcript of a live panel event on Revolutionising Access To Construction Standards, hosted by ClearCalcs. The discussion focuses on new technologies that make it easier for engineers to better understand and use relevant engineering standards in real time. The panel includes Chris Borzillo, Co-Founder and CEO of ClearCalcs, and Daniel Chidgey, Head of Commercial Partnerships at Standards Australia.

The panelists discuss the challenges faced by organizations in keeping up with emerging technologies and trends, and the need to evolve to deliver dependable solutions that meet the demands and expectations of users. They also highlight the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in the engineering industry to push for innovation and move forward.

Standards Australia is looking at alternative pathways to get content to the market faster, including establishing projects instead of relying solely on their network of committees. They are also partnering with innovative companies like ClearCalcs to democratize access to standards and improve efficiencies in digital workflows. Meanwhile, ClearCalcs is excited about the partnership as it brings together stakeholders to identify how engineers' workflow can be improved by integrating standards.

The panelists emphasize the importance of delivering innovative user experiences to support the effective use of standards in the AEC industry. They discuss the challenges faced by engineers in gathering data from different databases and sources, maintaining an audit trail for millions of components, and adhering to standards requirements in a sensible workflow. The integration of relevant industry standards and content into digital workflows can make a positive impact on businesses' decision-making processes, efficiency, compliance, and productivity gains.

The panelists discuss the potential of AI-powered assistance to provide accurate insights using standards, as well as the endless possibilities of technology such as using phones to verify products against standard information. They express excitement about the collaboration between Standards Australia and ClearCalcs, which brings together different expertise to improve engineering workflows and democratize access to standards.

The panelists discuss how digitizing standards can provide significant opportunities to better understand customer usage and improve standards content over time. They also highlight the importance of feedback from industry stakeholders to develop and evolve standards content, as well as exploring value-add solutions such as online training and commentary.

The panelists then showcase a demo of ClearCalcs, which integrates Australian standards directly into engineering workflows, allowing engineers to filter and access the standards they need with ease. The platform also includes advanced natural language search and sharing capabilities to enhance collaboration among teams. They encourage users to provide feedback to continue driving innovation in the industry.


Head of Operations, ClearCalcs

Co-Founder and CEO, ClearCalcs

Head of Commercial Partnerships, Standards Australia 

To celebrate the partnership between ClearCalcs and Standards Australia, ClearCalcs will be hosting a panel with Standards Australia to inspire and engage the industry on the latest in engineering innovation.

Revolutionising Access To Construction Standards

## Learn how to analyze wind load requirements for residential buildings based on the American Standards.


### About this event 

All buildings are subject to weather elements, including wind forces. Common building and construction codes normally require that a building is designed to withstand extreme or commonly repeated loads, including wind effects.

However, calculating wind loads for a residential building can be difficult and time-consuming. With considerations such as various different adjustment factors, zones on the building, reductions based on tributary area, etc., wind load calculations can be daunting to structural designers. 

Join Laurent Gérin, ClearCalcs’ structural expert, on **Wednesday, May 24th, 2023, from 1 pm to 2 pm Eastern Time (ET)** to learn more about how you would typically calculate wind loads for a typical residential building by going over the basics of Components & Cladding and Main Wind Force Resisting System (MWFRS).

We'll also explain how ClearCalcs' calculators can help automate your wind load analysis and save you time in your design workflow.

In this webinar, we will cover:
- General overview of ASCE 7-16, the governing standard for wind loads in the US
- Common factors to consider when calculating wind loads
- Worked examples using our wind load calculators in ClearCalcs

### Resources 

- [PowerPoint presentation](https://www2.clearcalcs.com/l/944993/2023-05-25/6kw5xt/944993/1684989129pfyOV1a0/2023_05_24_Wind_Loads.pdf)

### Webinar Summary

This is a transcript from a webinar on Wind Load Calculations to American Standards held on May 24th, 2023. The webinar was hosted by Connor Conzelman, ClearCalcs Director of Customer Success and presented by Laurent Gérin, P.Eng., North America Engineering Team Lead. 

They began the webinar by discussing with the attendees the most annoying parts of calculating wind loads and introduced ClearCalcs, a cloud-based structural engineering platform.

Laurent Gérin discusses the basics of wind loads, including lateral loads and roof uplift, and emphasizes the importance of using the correct wind speed when designing for wind. He also mentions that ASCE 7 is the standard used in most states for wind load calculations.

Gérin explains the three categories of exposure in ASCE 7, which are based on the level of wind obstruction, and emphasizes the importance of considering topography and elevation when calculating wind loads. He also discusses the four categories of building enclosure, which take into account the presence and strength of openings in the building.

Gérin explains that wind loads on buildings can be divided into two categories: components and cladding, and main wind force resisting systems. He notes that for small residential buildings like houses, ASCE 7 provides a convenient way to calculate wind loads based on different zones and coefficients. Gérin also emphasizes the impact of building enclosure on wind loads and how it affects the pressure on the inside of a building.

In this segment, Gérin explains the two types of wind loads: components and cladding, and main wind force resisting systems. He also discusses the two methods to calculate the MWFRS loads in ASCE 7 and emphasizes the importance of using the correct load factor when designing for wind. Finally, he introduces a design example in ClearCalcs for a stud wall spanning two floors in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Gérin creates a new wind load calculation in ClearCalcs for a gable roof in Lincoln, Nebraska, using the correct wind speed and exposure category. He emphasizes the importance of considering building properties such as enclosure type and roof pitch when calculating wind loads.

Gérin explains how wind pressures vary based on tributary area and provides a table that shows the different wind pressures for positive and negative wind forces in different zones. He then demonstrates how to use this information to calculate wind loads on a stud wall using ClearCalcs.

Gérin demonstrates how to enter distributed gravity loads and wind loads into ClearCalcs, emphasizing the importance of being conservative with load eccentricity assumptions. He also discusses the use of project defaults and invites feedback on how users are utilizing them. Finally, he shows how to determine which member size is appropriate based on governing factors such as deflection.

Gérin then proceeds to demonstrate how to design an exterior stud wall to resist components and cladding loads using ClearCalcs. He explains the process of calculating effective wall member area based on the span of the tall wall studs and their spacing, and entering roof geometry and ground elevation factor. Gérin also addresses a question about parapet components and cladding in ClearCalcs, which is currently not supported but will be added in the future.

Gérin explains how to convert wind loads in PSF to loads on shear walls and introduces a future feature of ClearCalcs that will automate this process. He invites feedback from the audience on this feature and concludes by emphasizing the importance of considering topography and building enclosure when calculating wind loads.

Gérin discusses new features in ClearCalcs, including the ability to enter custom wood properties and the recent addition of wood and steel truss design. He also mentions upcoming webinars on the Sheriken connection system, steel base plate design, and starting your own engineering practice with mass timber design expert David Ortekin. Gérin invites feedback from users on how ClearCalcs can improve wind load calculations and address missing elements like overhang loads and parapets.


Learn how to analyze wind load requirements for residential buildings based on the American Standards.

Wind Load Calculations to American Standards

## Learn how to perform wind load calculations to AS/NZS 1170.2:2021: Structural design actions, Part 2: Wind actions

### About this event

Using the correct wind classification is critical in ensuring a building is designed to comply with the applicable local building standards. In Australia, the two standards that apply are the AS/NZS 1170.2:2021: Structural design actions, Part 2: Wind actions and the AS 4055: 2021: Residential Wind Actions. 

However, calculating wind loads for a residential building can be difficult and time-consuming. The parameters that go into wind calculations such as topographic parameters, shielding parameters, and terrain categories are often obtained based on guesstimates and may result in potentially unsafe or costly outcomes during or after the build. 

Join Brooks Smith, ClearCalcs' Head of Engineering R&D, on **Wednesday, May 24th, 2023, from 12 pm to 1 pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST)** in this 2-webinar series on Wind Assessments Standards for residential buildings in Australia. 

In the first part of the series, Brooks will give an overview of the AS/NZS 1170.2:2021: Structural design actions, Part 2: Wind actions. We will discuss some of the key changes in the latest AS/NZS 1170.2 compared to the previous edition and do a deep dive into the procedures of wind load calculations. 

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- An overview of AS/NZS 1170.2:2021: Structural design actions, Part 2: Wind actions
-- The difference between AS/NZS 1170.2: 2021 with AS 4055:2021
-- Key changes in AS/NZS 1170.2021 compared to AS/NZS 1170.2:2011
- Wind load calculations
-- Calculation strategy
-- Wind speed
-- Internal pressures
-- External pressures
-- Final wind load
- Worked example calculations in ClearCalcs

### Resources

- [PowerPoint presentation](https://www2.clearcalcs.com/l/944993/2023-05-24/6kw2x4/944993/1684907422nV0UUGUZ/2023_05_24___AS_NZS_1170.2_2021_Wind.pdf)

Head of Engineering R&D

Learn how to perform wind load calculations to AS/NZS 1170.2:2021: Structural design actions, Part 2: Wind actions

Wind Assessment Standards for Australian Residential Projects (Pt. 1)

## Structural Design Concepts: Heavy Timber Engineering Pt. 2 (Commercial Projects)

### About this event

While wood has been used as construction material for centuries, the use of mass timber or heavy timber in structural design is only emerging in the last few decades, and not everyone has a clear understanding of what it means. 

Additionally, as steel and concrete became the preferred alternative materials in construction, there’s a surprising amount of expertise that goes into designing with heavy timber that not many structural engineers are confident with it, even though they might have a natural interest in timber as building materials.

Join our Structural Design Lead, Laurent Gérin, and David Hourdequin, President and Owner of North Carolina-based structural engineering firm D. Rémy & Co., on **Wednesday, 17 May 2023, from 2 pm to 3 pm Eastern Time** to learn more about designing with heavy timber for commercial projects.

We will discuss some of the most interesting heavy timber engineering projects for that David has worked on in his career, such as the Universal Studios’ Harry Potter Barn and Whidden Wedding Pavilion in Florida.

This is your opportunity to learn from his insights regarding what worked and what didn’t, explore complex scenarios that demonstrate timber’s efficient working capabilities, and unpack structural design considerations when working with timber - all while having an opportunity to ask questions directly from our expert himself!  

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- Introduction to David Hourdequin and his structural engineering career history
- Overview of timber frame engineering & why it is unique in structural design, and what makes a timber frame engineer different from a structural engineer?
- Projects details:
-- **The Harry Potter Barn, Universal Studios, Orlando, FL**: An unusual theme park venue through which a rail car carrying participants travels in a sharp turn through a twelve-sided barn. The roof system consists of twelve radial trusses, two of which are cantilevered from a center, four-foot diameter staved timber king pin, and steel shear wall system resisting high wind loads.
-- **Whidden Wedding Pavilion, Lake Wales, FL**: A large, heavy timber-framed wedding barn with a central aisle, shed roof wings, loft and common lumber framed shear walls.

### Webinar Summary 
The Clearcalcs expert hour webinar features David Hourdequin discussing his past projects and the cloud-based structural calculations software, Clearcalcs. Laurent introduces David and his new book, Consulting Engineering Success, before David talks about the wooden barn project in central Florida, which utilized metal plate connected joints and a k truss to resist wind shear.

Chris, the draftsman for the wooden barn project, joins the webinar and discusses the challenges of modifying the original design to create scissor trusses that were both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. He also mentions the owner's input and how David's meticulousness made the process easier.

David Hourdequin discusses the Harry Potter ride project at Universal Studios, which required a 70-foot-long truss and an erection platform due to a hole in the floor. The project also involved creating a kingpin that was 26 feet high and 3 feet in diameter, with diaphragm pieces made of double laminated advantech and g flex epoxy used for assembly. The sheer walls were made of wood frame and two by eight walls to withstand wind shear.

David Hourdequin discusses the inner shell of the 26-foot-high and 3-feet-in-diameter kingpin used in the Harry Potter ride project at Universal Studios, which was made of double laminated advantech and g flex epoxy. He also talks about the importance of diaphragm pieces in the assembly and the use of tension rods and plate washers in the cantilevered trusses. Ron asks a question about how the staves and the barn were connected to each other, and David explains that they were glued together using g flex epoxy under highly controlled conditions.

Dan Kaiser, who worked on the Harry Potter ride project at Universal Studios with Hourdequin and Ben Krompak, shares a video of the ride and discusses the challenges of building an authentic timber frame structure that is constantly wet and dry. They also discuss the maintenance required for the structure due to its exposure to the elements.

During the Clearcalcs expert hour webinar, David Hourdequin discusses the wooden barn project in central Florida and mentions that the heavy timber used in the project is the best material for fire resistance. He also addresses a question about whether the timbers were pressure treated and explains that they were not, but it would have been a good idea considering the humid climate in Florida.

David Hourdequin discusses several other timber frame projects, including a pavilion in Virginia, a residence in Maryland, and a modified double Pratt truss in Virginia. He also thanks Chris, Ben, and Dan for joining the discussion and adding another dimension to the conversation. David encourages attendees to read his book, Consulting Engineering Success, and announces that he will be recording the audiobook version soon.

D. Rémy & Co.

Join us in a 1-hour live webinar to learn more about designing with heavy timber for commercial projects

ClearCalcs Expert Hours with David Hourdequin (Pt. 2)

## All Things Column Designs for Residential Structures

### About this event

Struggling to understand structural engineering basics?

Our 30-minute Live Residential Design webinar series is the perfect way for any design professional in the residential construction industry to improve their understanding of structural engineering. 

You’ll get to follow along with our Director of Customer Success, Connor Conzelman as he walks through how to design all types of common columns you may encounter in a residential project such as rectangular concrete column, steel column, wood stud wall and wood deck post. This will ensure that you can confidently complete your next project!

Join Connor Conzelman to learn more about how to design common columns based on a real-life residential drawing plan and the tips and tricks you can use to speed up your structural design workflow in ClearCalcs!

### In this webinar, we will cover:
- Short introduction of the house 
- Locating columns in the plan 
- Designing common columns in ClearCalcs
-- Rectangular Concrete Column (Plain & Reinforced)
-- Steel Column
-- Wood Stud Wall
-- Wood Deck Post
- Tips and tricks to use to speed up your column design workflow

### Resources
- [PowerPoint presentation](https://www2.clearcalcs.com/l/944993/2023-05-11/6ktpht/944993/1683789127zbKukjws/2023_05_10_Basics_ColumnDesign.pptx.pdf)

### Webinar Summary

The webinar is about structural design basics, specifically signing columns in the real world. ClearCalcs is a cloud-based platform for structural engineering calculations. The presenter, Connor, discusses load linking and validation to eliminate wasted time. Examples are given for gravity loads, wind loads, and seismic loads.

In this segment, Connor sets up a new calculation in ClearCalcs for an exposed outdoor isolated wood column and inputs the given information such as column height, support conditions, axial eccentricity, and load magnitudes for dead, live, and snow loads. He also shows how to add intermediate bracing if needed and selects a member that's comfortable for the design.

Connor then moves on to example 2, where he sets up a new calculation in ClearCalcs for lateral loads caused by wind. He inputs the wind speed and exposure category, and uses the components and cladding wind load calculator to determine the lateral loads on the column. He then inputs these loads into the deck post design and applies them as distributive loads.

Connor confirms with the engineers whether the ClearCalcs outputs are ultimate or service loads. He then demonstrates how to modify bracing and support inputs in the calculator, and shows how to determine the governing load combination for each check by switching to detailed mode. Finally, he introduces example 3, where he sets up a new calculation for a freestanding seismic-resisting frame and explains how to find seismic data using the hazards by location tool.

Connor demonstrates how to use the ATC Hazards tool to gather wind, snow, tornado, and seismic data at a specific location. He then sets up a new calculation in ClearCalcs for seismic analysis and inputs the short and long period spectral acceleration, transition period, building risk category, height, and effective seismic weight. Connor also shows how to link the seismic base shear to the frame calculation and design a wood member to resist the seismic loads.

Connor demonstrates how to modify the member selector in ClearCalcs to choose a different species or number of plies for built-up posts. He also mentions that ClearCalcs is working on developing an API and encourages users to reach out to the Help team with any questions or suggestions. Finally, he reminds viewers to use the Help button for assistance and announces an upcoming webinar on heavy timber framing.

Learn how to design all things column in a residential project with this work-along live webinar with ClearCalcs.

Live Residential Design: Taos, NM Custom Home Pt. 2

## A practical guide to understanding and using the Direct Strength Method in CFS design to AS/NZS 4600:2018

### About this event

With the increasing price of wood material in construction, cold-formed steel framing is rapidly becoming the material of choice in sustainable construction due to being lightweight, strong, non-combustible, and recyclable.

CFS is unique in its design due to complex buckling considerations which must be accounted for. Traditionally, the Effective Width Method (EWM) was used to account for buckling considerations, but now the newer and more accurate Direct Strength Method (DSM) is available and encouraged by AS/NZS 4600. 

Join ClearCalcs’ Head of Engineering R&D, Brooks Smith, as we teach you all about the Direct Strength Method and take you through how to practically make use of it in real-world designs.

Normally, to produce a compliant design, many engineers need to either use overconservative span tables or figure out the incredibly complex CFS engineering standards. ClearCalcs makes figuring out the standard easy with our integration of the Direct Strength Method in CFS design calculations. 

### In this webinar, we will cover:

- What is the Direct Strength Method, and how does it differ from the old Effective Width Method?
- Understanding finite strip analysis results, including signature curves and buckling modes - and how to most easily obtain these in CUFSM, THIN-WALL, or pyCUFSM
- Practically using the Direct Strength Method  in real-world designs
- Worked examples in ClearCalcs 
- Highlight on the newly released capability C-shaped CFS beams to be loaded about the minor axis and how it can help your design workflow. 

### Resources
- [PowerPoint presentation](https://www2.clearcalcs.com/l/944993/2023-05-10/6kthg7/944993/1683697889OQZmh3BY/CFS_DSM_Webinar_AU___2023_05_10.pptx.pdf)
- [AISI S100 Standards](https://www.cfsei.org/free-aisi-standards)
- Finite Strip Software
-- [CUFSM](https://www.ce.jhu.edu/cufsm/)
-- [pyCUFSM](https://github.com/ClearCalcs/pyCUFSM)
-- [THIN-WALL](https://structuresgroup-eng.sydney.edu.au/thin-wall/)

### Webinar summary 

The webinar on The Direct Strength Method in Cold-Formed Steel (CFS) Design provided attendees with valuable insights into this advanced design approach. The webinar covered various topics including the differences between the Direct Strength Method and the old Effective Width Method, understanding finite strip analysis results using tools like CUFSM, THIN-WALL, or pyCUFSM, practical implementation of the Direct Strength Method in real-world designs, and worked examples using ClearCalcs. Additionally, the webinar highlighted the newly released capability of loading C-shaped CFS beams about the minor axis and its potential benefits for design workflows.

The webinar began by explaining the Direct Strength Method and its distinctions from the Effective Width Method, which was previously used in CFS design. The Direct Strength Method provides a more accurate and efficient approach by directly considering the strength of individual elements in the cross-section, rather than relying on effective width approximations. This method allows for more precise calculations and better prediction of the behavior of CFS members.

The session then delved into understanding finite strip analysis results, focusing on signature curves and buckling modes. The webinar showcased different tools such as CUFSM, THIN-WALL, and pyCUFSM that assist in obtaining these analysis results. Participants learned about interpreting the signature curves to identify critical buckling modes and understand the structural behavior of CFS members under various loading conditions.

Practical implementation of the Direct Strength Method was a significant aspect of the webinar. Attendees gained insights into integrating this method into their real-world designs, including considerations for different types of CFS members such as beams, columns, and wall studs. The webinar emphasized the advantages of the Direct Strength Method, such as its ability to handle complex geometries and material properties, leading to more efficient and optimized designs.

To illustrate the concepts discussed, the webinar included worked examples using ClearCalcs, a popular engineering software. Attendees were able to see firsthand how to apply the Direct Strength Method in practice and verify their designs through calculations and simulations.

Lastly, the webinar focused on the newly released capability of loading C-shaped CFS beams about the minor axis. This feature expanded the design possibilities and streamlined the workflow for engineers working with CFS structures. The webinar explained the benefits of this enhancement, including improved efficiency, reduced material usage, and enhanced structural performance.

In conclusion, the webinar on The Direct Strength Method in Cold-Formed Steel Design provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of this advanced design approach. Participants learned about the differences between the Direct Strength Method and the old Effective Width Method, gained insights into interpreting finite strip analysis results, and discovered practical implementation techniques. The worked examples and emphasis on the newly released capability of loading C-shaped CFS beams about the minor axis added practical value to the webinar, equipping attendees with the knowledge and tools to enhance their CFS design workflows.

A practical guide to understanding and using the Direct Strength Method in CFS design to AS/NZS 4600:2018

ClearCalcs Learn Hour