We specialise in designing all types of steel and associated concrete structures. We carry out the finite element analysis (FEA) using cutting-edge software tools, which ensures that we can simplify and resolve even the most complex structural requirements. Also, guided by our vast design experience, we always offer optimal solutions to our clients.
Our team can offer and realise all design phases, from preliminary and conceptual structural design, through the adoption of the final design that is in accordance with the functional, aesthetic and budgetary requirements of the architect and the client, up to the production of high-quality technical documentation that includes accurate, clear and detailed drawings (plans, sections, elevations, details…) and calculation reports.
STANDARDS AND CODES
Our vast engineering experience in different areas of the construction industry and cooperation with international clients have grown our capability for applying a range of standards and codes for structural design such as Eurocodes (including national annexes – BS, DIN, etc.), AS/NZS and SNIP.
EN 1990 Eurocode 0: Basis of structural design
EN 1991 Eurocode 1: Actions on structures
EN 1992 Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures
EN 1993 Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures
EN 1994 Eurocode 4: Design of composite steel and concrete structures
EN 1997 Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design
EN 1998 Eurocode 8: Design of structures for earthquake resistance
FEA - Finite Element Analysis
The Basics of Finite Element Analysis
In structural design and analysis, the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) refers to the process of carrying out analyses and calculations for entire structures. FEA tools allow for creating computerised simulations of varied physical phenomena, employing a technique called the Finite Element Method (FEM). Owing to the FEA, engineers are able to predict the behaviour of different real-world structures in response to a variety of external and internal influences, such as forces, vibrations, temperature, etc. Applying the FEA reduces the need for physical prototypes and experiments, and further optimizes elements during their designing phase to ensure quicker and more quality manufacturing.
How does FEA work?
The FEA enables precise measuring of the structure’s reactions to different kinds of forces, determining whether the analysed structure will wear out, break, or ideally, work as it should. It is the leading mathematical method for complex situations that require highly variable equations.
The simulation is carried out by generating a mesh, i.e. fragmenting the real structure into a vast number of pieces (from 1000s all up to 100000s). That is how a 3D structure is converted into a series of easily analysable mathematical points. Calculations (in the form of mathematical equations) predicting the elements’ behaviour are made for each finite element individually, and a combination of these separate results yields the final result for the overall structure.
FEA applications
Making our calculations and models as realistic as possible is our approach to structural design and analysis. To that end, we use FEA tools regardless of the complexity or type of the structure.
The FEA enables us to perform static, dynamic and stability analyses for any kind of structure. As we tend to produce most accurate results, we do not hesitate to step into the area of nonlinear calculations. Nonlinearities can be related to geometry, material behaviour or contacts and boundary conditions. Although nonlinearities raise the complexity of the analysis, their usage contributes to the proper assessment of the structural behaviour. Therefore, we have no doubt about applying nonlinear analysis in order to perform exact, safe and cost-effective design.
Structural engineering FEA demands a comprehensive structural calculation in order to obtain the so-called global results such as dynamic response or stability behaviour of the whole structure. However, there are situations where some local checks are required. The most common situation where local checks are needed is steel connection design. By using FEA tools, we are able to check the strength, stability or rigidity of any connection.
Despite the fact that the FEA is able to provide solutions for many problems we are dealing with, the most important factor for solving them is our knowledge and experience. The FEA is a tool that we use coupled with our engineering skills. As a result, we are capable of performing various types of calculations for all major structural materials, such are structural steel, reinforced concrete, timber and glass.
PROJECTS
Our leading engineers have taken part in many comprehensive and interesting structural design and analysis projects as part of our sister company TIM INŽENJERING SISTEM along with domestic and international teams of designers and contractors. We are particularly proud of the projects presented below.
