How To Choose Software For Steel Connection Design

Most day to day work involves standard or simple connections. Individually, these are straightforward and quick to handle, but they still make up a large portion of the overall design effort.

However, in every project there is at least one complex connection. This could be driven by geometry, loading, or site constraints. Designing these connections requires not just engineering judgement, but also significant time and effort.

Engineers need tools that can handle standard connections efficiently, while still being able to accurately analyse and code check complex cases.

Without this, engineers often end up switching tools, making simplifying assumptions, or overdesigning to meet deadlines.

The requirement for the tool is not just capability, but efficiency. 

Key considerations:

• Handling both standard and complex connections → templates for routine cases, with the ability to build custom connections from scratch
• Speed for routine work → template based workflows that reduce modelling time
• Ease of use → intuitive 3D interface that can be applied on real projects
• Integration → BIM links with global FEM software including Tekla, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, ETABS
• Code compliance → AISC, Eurocode, Australian Standards, Indian Standards
• Collaboration → ability to share models with colleagues, fabricators or clients
• Output → clear calculations and reports for submission

Where IDEA StatiCa fits:

• Single environment for both standard and complex connections
• Template based setup for standard connections, enabling fast modelling
• Modelling of complex geometries including plates, bolts, and welds with nonlinear analysis (CBFEM)
• Integration with global FEM software including Tekla, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, ETABS
• Built-in code checks with formulas across multiple standards
• Collaboration through the online IDEA StatiCa Viewer
• Custom reports for design review and submission

For those evaluating tools in this space, there is also a free trial available: