GEAR2003 ALLTutorial PDF

ACECOMS GEAR ®
General Engineering Assistance and Reference
TUTORIAL EXAMPLES
Asian Center for Engineering Version

August 2003
Computations and Software.
AIT, Bangkok, Thailand
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AND MUST INDEPENDENTLY VERIFY THE RESULTS.
Contents
Example 1: Unit Converter 1-1 to 1-10

To demonstrate and practice on the conversion of units
using the Unit Converter module General Tools
Example 2: Engineering Constants 2-1 to 2-5

To demonstrate and practice on the finding out of
engineering constants using the Engineering Constants
module
Example 3: Dead Load Reference 3-1 to 3-5

To demonstrate and practice on the finding out of dead
loads using the Dead Load Reference module
ACECOMS GEAR
Example 4: Factored Loads 4-1 to 4-9

To demonstrate and practice on the calculation of
factored loads according to ACI code using the
Factored Loads module
Example 5: Load Combination Calculator 5-1 to 5-16

detailed load combinations using the Load Combination
Calculator module
Example 6: Triangle Solver 6-1 to 6-6

geometric properties of a triangle using the Triangle
Solver module
Example 7: Circle Solver 7-1 to 7-6

geometric properties of a sector of a circle using Circle
Solver module
Example 8: Polygon Solver 8-1 to 8-7

geometric properties of a solid pentagon using Polygon
Solver module
Example 9: Property Calculator 9-1 to 9-9

geometric properties of I Girder using Property
Calculator module
ii
Contents
Example 10: Rebar Calculator 10-1 to 10-9

To demonstrate and practice on the calculation of rebar
areas, numbers of bars or bar spacing using the Rebar
Calculator module
Example 11: Column K-Factor Calculator 11-1 to 11-15

effective length factor for columns in a 2D Frame using
the K-Factor Calculator module
Example 12: Column Moment Magnifier 12-1 to 12-14

To demonstrate and practice on the Calculation of
magnified moments as per ACI code using the Column
Moment Magnifier module
Example 13: Beam Designer 13-1 to 13-15

To demonstrate and practice on the design of a beam
(one section) using the Beam Designer module
Example 14: Column Designer 14-1 to 14-12

To demonstrate and practice on the design of a short
column subjected to biaxial moment in addition to axial
load using the Column Designer module
Example 15: Analysis and Design of 15-1 to 15-17

Two-way Slabs
To demonstrate and practice on the design of Two-way
slabs using the Two-way Slab Designer module
iii
ACECOMS GEAR
Example 16: Analysis and Design of 16-1 to 16-25

Flat Slabs
To demonstrate and practice on the design of a Flat
Plate using the Flat Slab Designer module
Example 17: Steel Strut Designer 17-1 to 17-13

To demonstrate and practice on the design of a steel
strut using the Steel Strut Designer module
Example 18: Steel Beam Designer 18-1 to 18-12

Beam using the Steel Beam Designer module
Example 19: Steel Column Designer 19-1 to 19-13

Column using the Steel Column Designer module
Example 20: Isolated Footing Designer 20-1 to 20-15

To demonstrate and practice on the design of an
isolated footing using the Isolated Footing Designer
Module
Example 21: Pile Cap Designer 21-1 to 21-21

To demonstrate and practice on the design of a pile cap
using the Pile Cap Designer module
Example 22: Driven Pile Designer 22-1 to 22-13

To demonstrate and practice on the analysis of a pile’s
capacity using the Driven Pile Designer module
iv
GEAR Tutorial Example 1
Unit Converter
Unit Converter Example 1
1. Reference
Before going through this example, we strongly recommend reading
ACECOMS GEAR2003 General Utilities, User’s Manual Part A,
Chapter 1.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the conversion of units using the
Unit Converter module of ACECOMS GEAR software
3. Problem Statement
In the following table, convert the quantities from given units to the
required units. The given units are in column three whereas the
required units are in the last column.
From To
Quantity Type
Value Unit Value Unit
Strength of Concrete (fc’) 3000 lbf/in2 ??? MPa
Modulus of Elasticity of Concrete (Ec) 20 MPa ??? Ksc
Change to
Length of a Bridge 8 Mile ??? Km

Moment in a beam 100 KN-m ??? KN
2
Area of a section (12”x24”) 288 In ??? cm2
Density of Concrete 140 lb/ ft3 ??? Kg/m3
Acceleration due to gravity 9.81 m/sec2 ??? ft/sec2
4. Solution – Key Steps
Following are the main steps required to convert the given

quantities to the required units.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Unit Converter

module
2. Select the type of quantity
3. Select units before and after conversion
4. Specify quantity
5. Add results to report
6. Complete all quantities in problem
7. Print and save results in text file
These steps are explained as follows:
GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-2

5. Step by Step Guide
5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Unit Converter

Module
Start ACECOMS GEAR software. The start-up screen of

GEAR2003 contains all the modules within their respective
categories. Unit Converter is the first module in the General Utilities
Category located at the upper left of the start-up screen. You can
activate Unit Converter by single clicking its icon, title or description.
The following Figure 1.1 shows the startup screen and the location
of Unit Converter module on this screen. You can alternatively
activate Unit Converter using the Unit Converter Tool on the
main toolbar.
Click Here
Figure 1.1: Start ACECOMS GEAR

Start up screen of ACECOMS GEAR software featuring all the modules. The desired
modules can be activated by single click on them. In this case click on Unit Converter
as highlighted.

5.2. Select the type of quantity
Select the type of quantity from the Quantity to Convert list. To

convert 3000 lbs/ft2 into MPa, we have to select the
Stress, Pressure type of quantity. This is illustrated in the Figure
1.2.
Figure 1.2: Unit Converter Module

Select the type of quantity you want to convert from Quantity to Convert list.

5.3. Select Units Before and After Conversion
In our example, the first quantity that we have to convert is lb/ft2 into
MPa. As highlighted in the Figure 1.3, select lb/sq. in. in the From
list and select MPa in the To list.
Figure 1.3: Selection of Units

Select the units you have to convert in the From list and the units you want to
convert to in the To list.

5.4. Specify Quantity

Once the Type of Quantity and the required units are selected, it is
time to specify the quantity that we want to convert. In the text box
provided below the From list, type in the value of the quantity to be
converted (3000 in our case). The adjacent text box located on the
right side, below the To list displays the converted quantity into the
required units (20.682 in our case).
Figure 1.4: Specify the Quantity

In the highlighted text box, type in the value of the quantity to be converted.

5.5. Add Results to Report
To add the results to the report, press the Add button located the
bottom of right hand side of the module. This is highlighted in the
Figure 1.5.
Figure 1.5: Add to Report

The converted quantity can be added to the report by pressing the Add button as
highlighted.

5.6. Complete All Quantities Given in Problem

You can convert all the quantities given in the problem statement in a similar
manner. Select the type of quantity for each quantity to be converted. Select
the given units in the From list and the required units in the To list. Type in
the value of the quantity to be converted in the text box provided under the
From list. The converted quantity is displayed on the text box provided under
the To list. To add each quantity to the report, press Add button once the
quantity has been converted. Thus all quantities can be added to the report one
by one.
Figure 1.6: Complete all Quantities

All the quantities converted and added to the report are displayed in the results area
as highlighted.

5.7. Print and Save Results to Text File

For printing results, press Print as highlighted in the Figure 1.7
below. To save the results in a plain text format, choose the save
tool located on the main toolbar of the module. It will open a
common dialogue for file saving as shown in Figure 1.8. Follow
standard windows procedure for file saving to assign the file name
and location and save the file.
Figure 1.7: Print Results

For printing the results, press Print as highlighted..

Figure 1.6: Save Results

All the quantities converted and added to the report are displayed in the results area
as highlighted.

Engineering Constants
Engineering Constants Example 2
1. Reference
Chapter 2.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the finding out of engineering
constants using the Engineering Constants module of ACECOMS
GEAR software
Find the engineering constants for the quantities given in the
following table:
Quantity Value Unit

Modulus of Elasticity of Aluminum ??? kN/mm2
Poissons Ratio of Steel ??? MPa
Specific Gravity of Portland Cement ???
Thermal Conductivity of Brick Clay ??? W/m deg C
Relation Between Celsius (C) and Fahrenheit (T) ???
The main steps of finding out the given engineering constants are
given as below:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Engineering

Constants Module
2. Select the type of Quantity and read appropriate value
3. Add results to the report
4. Find out all the engineering constants given in the
problem.
5. Print and save results to text file.
These steps are explained in the following section.

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Engineering

Constants Module

categories. Engineering Constants is the second module in the
General Tools Category located at the upper left of the start-up
screen. You can activate Engineering Constants by single clicking
its icon, title or description. The following Figure 2.1 shows the
startup screen and the location of Engineering Constants module
on this screen. You can alternatively activate Engineering
Constants using the Engineering Constants Tool on the main
toolbar.
Click Here

modules can be activated by single click on them. In this case click on Engineering
Constants as highlighted.
5.2. Select The Type of Quantity and Read Appropriate

Value
Select the appropriate type of quantity from the categories list. In

this case, to find out the modulus of elasticity of Aluminum, select
the category Modulus of Elasticity from the list. This will result in the
display of modulus of elasticity of all the materials in the library as
shown in Figure 2.2. You can read the desired value. In this case,
read the modulus of elasticity of Aluminum (67.6-69 kN/mm2).
Figure 2.2: Engineering Constants Module

Select the type of quantity from the categories list and then read your required value.

5.3. Add Results to the Report

For adding results to the report, please refer to step 5.5 of Example
1: Unit Converter.
5.4. Find out All Engineering Constants Given in the Problem

In such a manner, you can complete all desired engineering
constants given in the problem. Select the appropriate category
from the categories list and then read the relevant constant.
Figure 2.4: Complete All Constants

Select the categories one by one and add the constants under that category to the
report.
5.5. Print and Save Results to Text File

For printing and saving results please refer to step 5.7 of Example
1: Unit Converter.

Dead Load Reference
Dead Load Reference Example 3
1. Reference
Chapter 3.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the finding out of dead loads using
the Dead Load Reference module of ACECOMS GEAR software
Find the dead loads for the following: building components.
Dead Load Type Material Value Unit

False Ceiling Gypsum Board ??? lb/ft2
Floor Finishes Ceramic Tile (12mm) ??? KN/m2
Partition Asbestos Cement Sheet (6.4 mm) ??? KN/m2
Earthwork Silty Clay ??? Kg/m3
Earthwork Sand ??? KN/m3
The main steps of finding out the given engineering constants are
given as below:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Dead Load

Reference Module
2. Select the Dead Load Type and read appropriate value
3. Add results to report
4. Find out all dead loads given in the problem
5. Print and Save results to Text File

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Dead Load

Reference Module

categories. Dead Load Reference is the third module in the General
Tools Category located at the upper left of the start-up screen. You
can activate Dead Load Reference by single clicking its icon, title or
description. The following Figure 3.1 shows the startup screen and
the location of Dead Load Reference module on this screen. You
can alternatively activate Dead Load Reference using the Dead
Load Reference Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here

modules can be activated by single click on them. In this case click on Dead Load
Reference as highlighted.

5.2. Select the Dead Load Type and Read Appropriate

Value
Select the appropriate type of Dead Load from the categories list. In
this case, to find out the dead load due to false ceiling, select the
category False Ceiling from the list. This will result in the display of
due to all kinds of false ceilings in the library as shown in Figure 3.2.
You can read the desired value. In this case, read the dead load
due to Gypsum Board (1.33 - 2.05 lb/ft2).
Figure 3.2: Engineering Constants Module

Select the type of dead load from the categories list and then read your required
value.

5.3. Add Results to Report

For adding results to report, please refer to step 5.5 of Example 1:
Unit Converter.
5.4. Find Out All Dead Loads Given in the Problem

In such a manner, you can complete all desired dead loads given in
the problem. Select the appropriate category from the categories list
and then read the relevant dead load.
Figure 3.4: Complete All Loads

Select the categories one by one and add the loads under that category to the report.
5.5. Print and Save Report to Text File

For printing and saving results, please refer to step 5.7 of Example
1: Unit Converter.

Factored Loads
Factored Loads Example 4
1. Reference
Chapter 4.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the calculation of factored loads
according to ACI code using the Factored Loads module of
ACECOMS GEAR software
Consider the beam as shown in the Figure below. The applied
loads are given. Find out the maximum and minimum factored
loads to be considered for the design of the beam according to ACI
code.
w (Dead Load) = 2.5 T/m
w (Live Load) = 1.2 T/m
w (Earth Pressure) = 1.5 T/m
w (Maximum) = ?? T/m
w (minmum) = ?? T/m
Figure 4.1: A simply supported beam.

Following are the main steps required to calculate the factored

loads for the given beam.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Factored Loads

Module
2. Select Design Code and Specify Loads
3. Compute Load Combinations
4. Create and Print Report
5. Save Report
These steps are explained in the following section::

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Factored

Loads Module

categories. Factored Loads is the fourth module in the General
Utilities Category located at the upper left of the start-up screen.
You can activate Factored Loads by single clicking its icon, title or
the location of Factored Loads module on this screen. You can
alternatively activate Factored Loads using the Factored Loads
Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here

modules can be activated by single click on them. In this case click on Factored Loads
as highlighted.

5.2. Select Design Code and Specify Loads
On the left hand side of the Factored Loads, two tabs can be seen
one for each ACI and AASHTO codes. In this case, select the tab
with ACI code. On this ACI tab, six text boxes can be seen each for
one type of applied loads as defined in ACI code. In this case, dead
load, live load and earth pressure are applied on the given beam.
Type in these values in the appropriate text boxes.
Figure 4.3: Factored Loads

Select the desired code and type in the applied loads.

5.3. Compute Load Combinations
When the applied loads are typed in, press the “Compute” button to
calculate all the possible combinations of factored loads and the
maximum and minimum values. The computed load combinations
are displayed in the results area. The extreme combinations of the
factored loads are also separately displayed on the left hand side of
the Factored Loads.
Figure 4.4: Compute Factored Loads

The Compute button, the results area and extreme combinations display are
highlighted.

5.4. Create and Print Report

A report can be created by adding the results to it. To create a
report, press Add after the factored loads are computed. It is
illustrated in Figure 4.5. To set the format of the report to be
created, press Format as shown in Figure 4.6. This will open a
dialogue box for report formatting. Set your preferences and press
Ok to return to Factored Loads. To have a look at the report before
printing, press Preview as shown in Figure 4.7. To print the report
press Print as highlighted in Figure 4.8.
Figure 4.5: Add Results to Report

Press the Add button to add the calculated factored loads to report.

Figure 4.6: Format Report

Pressing Format will open a dialogue box for formatting the report.

Figure 4.7: Preview Report

Pressing Preview displays the report that has been created.

Figure 4.8: Print Report

To print report, press Print as highlighted.
5.5. Save Results
For saving results, please refer to step 5.7 of Example 1: Unit

Converter.

Load Combination Calculator
5
Load Combination
Example
Calculator
1. Reference
Chapter 5.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the calculation of detailed load
combinations using the Load Combination Calculator module of
3. Problem
Consider the beam as shown in the Figure below. The applied
loads at three sections in each span are given. Find out the design
load combinations according to AASHTO-LFD method.
Figure 5.1: A two span-beam.

Load Combination Calculator Example 5
Moment at Span 1 Moment at Span 2

(Ton-m) (Ton-m)
Load Type Load Case
Section Section
1 2 3 1 2 3
Primary Dead Load 0 -250 -350 -400 -300 0
Primary Live Load 0 75 -100 -125 150 0
Secondary Centrifugal Force - - - - - -
Secondary Earth Pressure - - - - - -
Secondary Buoyancy - - - - - -
Secondary Stream Flow Press - - - - - -
Wind-X Wind on Structure -1 0 10 20 -25 -15 0
Wind-X Wind on Live Load -1 0 5 10 -15 -10 0
Primary Longitudinal Force 0 20 40 -50 -25 0
Secondary Rib Shortening - - - - - -
Secondary Shrinkage 0 15 30 35 20 0
Secondary Temperature 0 20 25 40 25 0
EQ-X Earth Quake – 1 0 50 75 -80 -60 0
Secondary Ice Pressure - - - - - -

Shear at Span 1 Shear at Span 2

(Ton) (Ton)
Load Type Load Case
Section Section
1 2 3 1 2 3
Primary Dead Load 100 -5 -200 250 7 -125
Primary Live Load 40 -3 -80 100 5 50
Secondary Centrifugal Force - - - - - -
Secondary Earth Pressure - - - - - -
Secondary Buoyancy - - - - - -
Secondary Stream Flow Press - - - - - -
Wind on Structure
Wind-X 12 15 20 25 20 15
-1
Wind on Live Load
Wind-X 7 8 10 12 9 8
-1
Primary Longitudinal Force 10 12 15 20 15 12
Secondary Rib Shortening - - - - - -
Secondary Shrinkage 5 10 15 17 12 8
Secondary Temperature 4 8 12 15 10 6
EQ-X Earth Quake – 1 20 25 30 35 30 25
Secondary Ice Pressure - - - - - -
βD = 0.75, βE = 1.00
Span 1 Span 2
Results
Section Section
1 2 3 1 2 3
Maximum Moment (Ton-m) ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
Minimum Moment (Ton-m) ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
Maximum Shear (Ton) ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
Minimum Shear (Ton) ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???

Following are the main steps required to calculate the required load
combinations:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Load Combination

Calculator Module
2. Select Combination Code (AASHTO-LFD)
3. Select Load Types
4. Add Spans and Sections
5. Specify factor load (β), Moment and Shear
6. Compute Load Combination
7. View Results
8. Create Report
9. Print and Save

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Load

Combination Calculator Module
Start ACECOMS GEAR software. Load Combination Calculator is

the fifth module in the General Utilities Category located at the
upper left of the start-up screen. You can activate Load
Combination Calculator by single clicking its icon, title or description.
of Load Combination Calculator module on this screen. You can
alternatively activate Load Combination Calculator using the Load
Combination Calculator Tool on the main toolbar.

modules can be activated by single click on them. In this case click on Load
Combination Calculator as highlighted.

5.2. Select Combination Code (AASHTO-LFD)
Select the Combination Code to use while performing load

combination calculations. This code can be selected from
Tools>Select Combination Table> menu. In this case, select AASHTO-
LFD as shown in Figure 5.3 below:
Figure 5.3: Load Combination Calculator

Select the code from Tools>Select Combination Table>AASHTO-LFD.

5.3. Select Load Types
You can choose to include certain load cases and certain load
combinations while leaving the others. To do so, press Load
Combination Options button to open Load Combination Options
dialogue box. In this dialogue box, check the load cases and load
combinations you want to include and then press Ok.
Figure 5.4: Choose Load Types

Load Combination Options button and dialogue box.

5.4. Add Spans and Sections

By default, Load Combination Calculator has one element and one
section of that element. Add two more sections and one more
element with three sections as we have a beam of two spans with
three sections in each span. To add a section, press Add button in
the Sections area as shown in Figure 5.5 and to add an element,
press Add button in the Member/Element area as shown in Figure
5.6.
Figure 5.5: Adding Sections

Add two sections to the first element..

Figure 5.6: Add Span 2 (Element-2)

For second span, add an element by pressing Add button as highlighted.

Figure 5.7: Add Sections to Span 2

Add three sections to element 2 that represents the second span of beam in this case..

5.5. Specify Factors and Applied Loads
AASHTO-LFD method requires two special factors βD and βE.

Provide these factors in the appropriate textboxes located at the
upper right portion as shown in Figure 5.8. Also fill in the Actions
table by typing in all the given values of applied loads for each
section of each span. To do this, select the relevant element from
the elements list and relevant section from the sections list and then
fill in the values for that particular section. Repeat this process for all
the sections for which load combinations have to be calculated.
Figure 5.8: Specify Factors and Applied Loads

In this case, the values of shear and moment for section 1 of span 1 are being input.

5.6. Compute Load Combinations
Press Compute located at the right lower corner, as shown in

Figure 5.9, to calculate design load combinations, according to
selected code, for all the sections defined.
Figure 5.9: Compute Load Combinations

Press Compute as highlighted to calculate all the Load Combinations.

5.7. View Results
When the Load Combinations are calculated by pressing the

Compute button, it automatically switches to All Combined Results
tab. You can view results by switching to different tabs. The three
types of results that can be viewed one at a time are Combination
Table, Extreme Values and All Combined Results.
Figure 5.10: Combination Table

Combination table can be viewed by switching to its tab as highlighted.

Figure 5.11: All Possible Load Combinations

When the Load Combinations are calculated, it automatically switches to All
Combined Results.

Figure 5.12: Extreme Values

The extreme values for each section of each element can be viewed by switching to
the relevant tab as highlighted.

5.8. Create Report
For creating report, switch to Report tab and then press Add as
shown in the Figure 5.13. This will display a message saying,
“Results have been added to Report. Use Preview or Print to see
the Results”.

The report tab and the Add button.
5.9. Print, Preview and Save
For printing, preview and saving results, please refer to steps 5.4
and 5.5 of Example 4: Load Factors for ACI Code.

Triangle Solver
Triangle Solver Example 6
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 Geometric Properties, User’s Manual Part
B, Chapter 1.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the calculation of geometric
properties of a triangle using the Triangle Solver module of
3. Problem
Calculate the geometric properties of the triangle given in Figure 6.1
below and fill in the required values in the table.
Figure 6.1: A triangle with one side and two angles known.
Geometry/ Properties Value

a ??? m
b 9.500 m
c ??? m
A 35 Degree
B ??? Degree
C 80 Degree
Gross Area ??? m2
Outer Perimeter ??? m
Centroid Coordinate (XO) ??? m
Centroid Coordinate (YO) ??? m
Moment of Inertia (IXX) ??? m4
Moment of Inertia (IYY) ??? m4
Total Width (W) ??? m
Total Height (H) ??? m

Following are the main steps required to calculate the required

geometric properties of a triangle.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Triangle Solver

module
2. Specify dimensions
3. Compute triangle properties
4. Create and print report and save results

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Triangle Solver

Module

categories. Triangle Solver is the first module in the Geometric
Properties Category located at the lower left of the start-up screen.
You can activate Triangle Solver by single clicking its icon, title or
description. The following figure of Figure 6.2 shows the startup
screen and the location of Triangle Solver module on this screen.
You can alternatively activate Triangle Solver using the Triangle
Solver Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here

modules can be activated by single click on them. In this case click on Triangle
Solver as highlighted
5.2. Specify Dimensions
On the left part of Triangle solver, six text boxes can be seen for
entering sides and angles of the triangle. All the six text boxes are
accompanied by check boxes. First check the values that you want
to provide as input. It can be noticed if a value is checked, the
corresponding value that is no more required is automatically
disabled. For example if you check side a, the text box for angle A is
disabled. In this case, check side b and angles A and C and type in
their values in the respective text boxes.
Figure 6.3: Triangle Solver

Check the properties you want to input and then type in their values

5.3. Compute Triangle properties

When the given sides and angles are entered, press Compute to
calculate all the remaining geometric properties of a triangle. All the
computed geometric properties are displayed in the results area.
This is illustrated in Figure 6.4 below.
Figure 6.4: Compute Triangle Properties

The Compute button, the results area and geometric properties display are
highlighted.
5.4. Create and Print Report and Save Results

For creating and printing report, please refer to step 5.4 of Example
4a: Factored Loads for ACI Code and for saving results, please
refer to step 5.7 of Example 1: Unit Converter.

Circle Solver
Circle Solver Example 7
1. Reference
B, Chapter 2.
2. Objective
properties of a sector of a circle using Circle Solver module of
GEAR2003 Software
3. Problem
Calculate the geometric properties of the sector of a circle given in
Figure 7.1 below and fill in the required values in the table.
Figure 7.1: A sector of a circle.


Outside Radius (R) 8 m
Cord Width (b) ??? m
Sector Height (a) ???
Include Angle (d) 73.5 Degree
Tilt Angle (U) 90 Degree
Gross Area ??? m2
Outer Perimeter ??? m
Centroid Coordinate (XO) ??? m
Centroid Coordinate (YO) ??? m
Moment of Inertia (IXX) ??? m4
Moment of Inertia (IYY) ??? m4
Total Width (W) ??? m
Total Height (H) ??? m

geometric properties of a sector of a circle.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Circle Solver

Module
2. Select shape
4. Compute circle properties
5. Create and print report and save results

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Circle Solver

Module

categories. Circle Solver is the second module in the Geometric
You can activate Circle Solver by single clicking its icon, title or
the location of Circle Solver module on this screen. You can
alternatively activate Circle Solver using the Circle Solver Tool
on the main toolbar.
Click Here

modules can be activated by single click on them. In this case click on Circle Solver
as highlighted

5.2. Select Shape
In this Circle Solver module, geometric properties can be calculated

for full circle, semi-circle, quarter circle, segment of a circle, sector
of a circle and a thick arc. In this case we have to select the sector
of a circle from the shapes toolbar as shown in Figure 7.3.
Figure 7.3: Select Sector of a Circle

Select sector of a circle from the shapes toolbar located at the left side of the module
as highlighted..

There can be six possible sets of input values for calculating

geometric properties of a sector of a circle. Depending upon the
input data available, select the appropriate set from the given
variables dropdown list. In this case, select Radius R, Angle d. Type
in the values in the appropriate text boxes located below the given
variables list.
Figure 7.4: Specify dimensions

Select the type of variables given and type in their values.

5.4. Compute Circle properties

When the given variables are entered, press Compute to calculate all
the remaining geometric properties of a sector of a circle. All the
Figure 7.5: Compute Sector Properties

highlighted.

4: Factored Loads and for saving results, please refer to step 5.7 of
Example 1: Unit Converter.

Polygon Solver
Polygon Solver: Example 8
1. Reference
B, Chapter 3.
2. Objective
properties of a solid pentagon using Polygon Solver module of
GEAR2003 software
3. Problem
Calculate the geometric properties of solid pentagon given in Figure
8.1 below and fill in the required values in the table.
Polygon Solver Example 8
Figure 8.1: A solid pentagon with outside diameter known

Outside Diameter (Do) 3 ft
Inside Diameter (Di) ??? ft
Gross Area (A) ??? ft 2
Outer Perimeter (P) ??? ft
Centroid Coordinate (XO) ??? ft
Centroid Coordinate (YO) ??? ft
Moment of Inertia (IXX) ??? ft 4
Moment of Inertia (IYY) ??? ft 4
Total Width (W) ??? ft
Total Height (H) ??? ft


geometric properties of a solid pentagon.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Polygon Solver

module
2. Select Polygon Type
4. Compute polygon properties
5. Create and Print Report and Save Results
These steps are explained in the following section:

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Polygon Solver

Module

categories. Polygon Solver is the third module in the Geometric
You can activate Polygon Solver by single clicking its icon, title or
the location of Polygon Solver module on this screen. You can
alternatively activate Polygon Solver using the Polygon Solver
Click Here

modules can be activated by single click on them. In this case click on Polygon
Solver as highlighted
5.2. Select Polygon Type
In this Polygon Solver module, geometric properties can be

calculated for a polygon of any number of sides whether solid or
hollow. In this case we have to select the pentagon from the shapes
toolbar and solid from the main toolbar as shown in Figure 8.3.
Figure 8.3: Select Solid Pentagon

Select pentagon from the shapes toolbar located at the left side of the module and
solid from the main toolbar as highlighted.

There can be nine possible input values for calculating geometric

properties of a solid polygon. Depending upon the input data
available, select the appropriate variable from the given variables
dropdown list. In this case, select “Do, Outside Dia”. Type in the
value in the appropriate text box located below the given variables
list.
Figure 8.4: Specify dimensions

Select the type of variable given and type in its value.

5.4. Compute Polygon Properties

When the given variable is entered, press Compute to calculate all
the remaining geometric properties of the solid polygon. All the
Figure 8.5: Compute Polygon Properties

highlighted.

4: Factored Loads and for saving results, please refer to step 5.7 of
Example 1: Unit Converter.

Property Calculator
Property Calculator: Example 9
1. Reference
B, Chapter 4.
2. Objective
properties of I Girder using Property Calculator module of
ACECOMS GEAR2003 software
3. Problem
Calculate the geometric properties of I Girder given in Figure 9.1
below and fill in the required values in the table.
Property Calculator Example 9
Figure 9.1: I Girder Section
Geometric Properties at C.G. Value Unit

Perimeter (P) ??? in
Gross Area (A) ??? in
Centroid Coordinate (XO) ??? in
Centroid Coordinate (YO) ??? in
Moment of Inertia (IXX) ??? in4
Moment of Inertia (IYY) ??? in4
Modulus of Section at Top (SXX) ??? in3
Modulus of Section at Bottom (SXX) ??? in3
Modulus of Section at Left (SYY) ??? in
Modulus of Section at Right (SYY) ??? in
Radius of Gyration (rX) ??? in
Radius of Gyration (rY) ??? in
Geometric Properties at Base Value Unit

Moment of Inertia (IXX) ??? in4
Moment of Inertia (IYY) ??? in4


geometric properties of I Girder.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Property

Calculator module
2. Select Section Type
4. Compute section properties about C.G.
5. Add Section properties at C.G. to Report
6. Compute section properties at base of Girder.
7. Add Section properties at base to Report
8. Print Report and Save Results
These steps are explained in the following section:

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Property

Calculator Module
Start ACECOMS GEAR software. Property Calculator is the fourth

module in the Geometric Properties Category located at the lower
left of the start-up screen. You can activate Property Calculator by
single clicking its icon, title or description. The following Figure 9.2
shows the startup screen and the location of Property Calculator
module on this screen. You can alternatively activate Property
Calculator using the Property Calculator Tool on the main
toolbar.
Click Here

Start up screen of ACECOMS GEAR software featuring all the modules. Click on
Property Calculator as highlighted.

5.2. Select Section Type and Specify Dimensions
In this Property Calculator module, geometric properties can be

calculated for sections of various types. In this case we have to
select the Fillet I section from the shapes toolbar as shown in Figure
9.3. Type in all the dimensions given in the problem. These
dimensions can be typed in on the diagram directly as shown in the
Figure.
Figure 9.3: Select Fillet I

Select Fillet I from the shapes toolbar located at the left side of the module as
highlighted

5.3. Compute Section Properties at C.G
Geometric properties can be calculated at any point and about any

axis. In this example we have to calculate the same at the C.G. of
the Girder and at the base of the Girder. To calculate geometric
properties at the C.G. of the Girder, choose Center of Gravity in the
Properties At: area as highlighted in Figure 9.4 below. Press
compute to calculate the properties at C.G. These calculations are
displayed in the results area.
Figure 9.4: Compute Properties at C.G.

Select Center of Gravity in the Properties At: area and then press Compute.

5.4. Add Section Properties at C.G. to Report

Add the section properties at the C.G. to the report by pressing Add
as highlighted in Figure 9.5 below. The properties will be added to
the report, which you can view, print or save later.

Add the geometric properties at C.G. to the report by pressing Add as shown.

5.5. Compute Section Properties at Base of Girder
The origin is shown with blue lines on the diagram. With the help of
section dimension, you can located any point. In this case the co-
ordinates of the base of the Girder are X = 21 and Y = 0. To
calculate properties at this point, choose Point in the Properties At:
area and provide the co-ordinates of the base of the girder in the
appropriate text boxes. After entering the values, press compute to
calculate properties at the base.
Figure 9.6: Compute Properties at Base

Select Point in the Properties At: area and provide the co-ordinates of the base of the
Girder. Press Compute to calculate and display the properties in the results area.

5.6. Add Section Properties at Base of Girder to Report
The properties at the base can be added to the report in the same
manner as properties at C.G. were added to the report in step 5.4 of
this example.
5.7. Print Report and Save Results
For printing report, please refer to step 5.4 of Example 4: Factored

Loads and for saving results, please refer to step 5.7 of Example 1:
Unit Converter.

Rebar Calculator
Rebar Calculator Example 10
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 RC Utilities, User’s Manual Part C, Chapter
1.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the calculation of rebar areas,
numbers of bars or bar spacing using the Rebar Calculator module
of ACECOMS GEAR software
3. Problem
Given in the table below are different quantities of rebars. Calculate
the corresponding quantities required.
Maximum mixed bar sizes for the output for all is 1 and maximum
excess area should not exceed 10%.
From To
Quantity Value Quantity Value
Spacing 1 d 12 @ 17.5 cm Area ??? cm2/m
Area 10 cm2 Bars ???
Area 5 cm2/m Spacing ???
Bars (Two Sizes) 2 d 12 + 1 d 16 Bars (Single Size) ???
Bars 6 d 20 + 1 d 25 Area ??? cm2/m
Following are the main steps to be followed to calculate the required

quantities.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Rebar Calculator

Module
2. Select Working Units
3. Find Out the Results

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Rebar

Calculator Module

categories. Rebar Calculator is the first module in the RC Utilities
Category located in the upper middle of the start-up screen. You
can activate Rebar Calculator by single clicking its icon, title or
the location of Rebar Calculator module on this screen. You can
alternatively activate Rebar Calculator using the Rebar Calculator
Click Here
Figure 10.1: Start Rebar Calculator

Start up screen of ACECOMS GEAR software featuring available modules. The
desired modules can be activated by a single click on them.

5.2. Select Working Units
Before performing any rebar calculations, you have to select the

appropriate working units. The default units used by this module are
the Metric units. To use any other units, press the corresponding
tool on the main toolbar as shown in Figure 10.1 below.
Step 1: Unit Converter Module

Select the type of quantity you want to convert from Quantity to Convert list.

5.3. Find Out the Results
With Rebar Calculator, performing rebar calculations is as easy as

performing addition, subtraction and multiplication on normal
calculator. To calculate Area of bars if Spacing is given, select the
Input mode as Spacing and Output mode as Area from the Mode
area located below the From and To lists. This is illustrated in the
Figure 10.2 below. After the mode is selected type in the given
spacing of 1d12@17.5 cm. To type in this value and calculate the
area, press the following buttons in the given sequence:
You can see that the To list now displays the area of steel. The
units of this area are area/unit length (cm2/m in this case).
Figure 10.2: From Spacing to Area

The input and output modes have to be set prior to performing any calculation.

To calculate Number of Bars if Area is given, select the Input mode

as Area and Output mode as Bars from the Mode area located
below the From and To lists. This is illustrated in the Figure 10.3
below. You can also choose maximum mixed bar sizes to use and
the maximum excess area. Set the values of 1 and 10% for both
these quantities respectively in the right part of the Rebar Calculator
as shown in the Figure. After the mode is selected and bar size
restrictions are defined, type in the given area of 10cm2. To type in
this value and calculate the number of bars, press the following
buttons in the given sequence:
You can see that the To list now displays the number of bars. More
choices can be viewed by pressing the arrow located adjacent
to this list.
Figure 10.3: From Area to Bars

Rebar size restrictions can be defined in the right part of the Rebar Calculator.

To calculate Spacing of bars if Area is given, select the Input mode as Area
and Output mode as Spacing from the Mode area located below the From
and To lists. This is illustrated in the Figure 10.4 below. You can specify
limits for maximum spacing and minimum spacing and also maximum
excess are in the right pat of the Rebar Calculator if output mode is
Spacing. Specify maximum excess area as 10% in this case. After the
mode is selected and spacing restrictions are specified, type in the given
area of 5 cm2/m. To type in this value and calculate the spacing, press the
following buttons in the given sequence:
You can see that the To list now displays the spacing of bars (d12@20cm
in this case). More choices can be viewed by pressing the arrow located
adjacent to this list.
Figure 10.4: From Area to Spacing

Spacing restrictions can be defined in the right part of Rebar Calculator.

To calculate Number of bars of a single size if Number of bars for different

sizes is given, select the Input mode as Bars and Output mode also as Bars
from the Mode area located below the From and To lists. This is illustrated
in the Figure 10.5 below. Specify maximum mixed bar sizes as 1 and
maximum excess area as 10% in this case. After the mode is selected and
bar size restrictions are specified, type in the given Number of bars
(2d12+1d16). To type in this value and calculate the spacing, press the
following buttons in the given sequence:
You can see that the To list now displays the Number of bars of a single
size (1d25 in this case). More choices can be viewed by pressing the arrow
located adjacent to this list.
Figure 10.5: From Bars (Two Sizes) to Bars (Single Size)

Bars of different sizes can be used for calculations by placing the “+” sign between
them.

To calculate Area of bars if Number of bars is given, select the Input mode
as Bars and Output mode as Area from the Mode area located below the
From and To lists. This is illustrated in the Figure 10.6 below. After the
mode is selected type in the given spacing of 1d12@17.5 cm. To type in
this value and calculate the area, press the following buttons in the given
sequence:
You can see that the To list now displays the area of steel. The units of this
area are area/unit length (cm2/m in this case).
Figure 10.6: From Bars to Area

Area of steel can be calculated directly even if more than one size of
bars are involved.

Column K-Factor Calculator
11
Column K-Factor
Example
Calculator
1. Reference
2.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the calculation of effective length
factor for columns in a 2D Frame using the K-Factor Calculator
module of ACECOMS GEAR software
3. Problem
Calculate the effective length factors for Columns C1 through C5 as
shown in Figure 11.1 below: The relevant data is also given.
Column K-Factor Calculator Example 11
Figure 11.1: Columns C1 through C5 in a 2D Frame. The column and beam

cross-sections are as shown.

Concrete Strength (fC’) = 240 ksc

Total factored axial load for all column in that floor (Sum PU) = 1000 ton
Total factored shear in the first story in all column (Sum VU) = 30 ton
Relative Lateral Deflection = 0.015 m
Moment of Inertia Reduction Factor for Column = 0.7
Moment of Inertia Reduction Factor for Beam = 0.35
K-Factor for Column C1 = ???

Following are the main steps required to calculate the effective

length factor for columns C1 through C5 in the given 2D Frame.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate K-Factor

Calculator module
3. Check Sway Case and Find K-Factor for Column C1
4. Repeat Step 3 (without sway check) for Column C2
through C5

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate K-Factor Calculator

Module
categories. K-Factor Calculator is the second module in the RC
Utilities Category located at the upper left of the start-up screen.
You can activate K-Factor Calculator by single clicking its icon, title
or description. The following Figure 11.2 shows the startup screen
and the location of K-Factor Calculator module on this screen. You
can alternatively activate K-Factor Calculator using the K-Factor
Calculator Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here
Figure 11.2: Activate K-Factor Calculator

Start up screen of ACECOMS GEAR software featuring available modules The
desired modules can be activated by single click on them.

To set the working units, select them on the Tools>Working

Units>> menu. In this case, select Metric Units.
Figure 11.3: Select Working Units

Select the working units of your choice on the Tools>Working Units>> menu.

5.3. Check Sway Case and Find K-Factor for Column C1
C1 is a base column with a hinge at the base. Select the Framed

with Pin Base case from the column framing cases. This will open
the Effective Length Factor K for Base Column dialogue box.
Select the appropriate framing condition from the four different
framing conditions at the left. In this case, the framing condition is
column above and beam on one side.
Figure 11.4: Select Framing Case and Framing Condition

Framed with Pin Base framing case opens the Effective Length Factor K for Base
Column dialogue box. Different framing conditions can be seen towards the left had
side of this dialogue box.

On the Effective Length Factor K for Base Column dialogue box,

you can see two Framing options in the upper right corner. These
options are Sway and Non-sway. You can directly define the
column to be sway or non-sway by clicking the appropriate options.
To check the sway conditions, press the Check button located
below the two options. This will open Check Column Sway
Condition dialogue box. Select the Stability Index from the Check
Methods. Provide the values of Sum. Pu, Vu, Relative Lateral
Deflection, and Lc as given in the problem statement, and then
press Check located in the upper right corner to check the sway
condition. Press Close to return to the Effective Length Factor K
for Base Column dialogue box and update the Framing options.
Figure 11.5: Check Sway Case

Select Stability Index method and provide values for total factored axial load in the
story Pu, total factored shear in all the columns of first story Vu, relative lateral
deflection and clear length Lc.
After checking the sway condition, calculate the E and I and their
product EI for all columns and beams. Open the Gross Cross-
section Properties dialogue box by pressing the button located
adjacent to each of the EI text boxes. In this dialogue box, select the
shape of cross-section from the shapes toolbar at the left and
provide the cross-section dimension directly on the diagram. Also
provide the concrete compressive strength as 240 and Bd as zero.
Please make sure that Apply Moment of Inertia Reduction
Factor is checked. Default value of this factor is 0.7 for column and
0.35 for beam. Provide this value if other than default is intended to
be used. Also choose whether to use moment of inertial about X-
axis or about Y-Axis. Press Compute to calculate EI and press OK
to return.
Figure 11.6: Specify Column and Beam Properties

Press the button one by one and specify properties for each column and beam to
calculate their EI.

Provide lengths for all the members. In this case provide 5 for the column in
question, 3.5 for the column above and 6 for the beam. This completes the
K-Factor Calculation procedure. Press Compute to calculate the value of
effective length factor K for this column and then press OK to return to the
K-Factor Calculator with results displayed in the results area.
Figure 11.7: Specify Column Height and Beam Span and Compute K-Factor
After calculating the effective length factor, press OK to return to K-Factor Calculator
with the results display.

A report can be created by adding the results to it. If the report

already exist, pressing Add results in its expansion with the addition
of results for the current column.
Figure 11.8: Add Calculation Details to Report

The K Value area shows the value of K-factor calculated. Pressing Add will add the
results for the current column to the report.

5.4. Repeat Step 3 (except sway check) for Column C2

through C5
Apply the same procedure as discussed in Step 5.3 above for the
calculation of effective length factor for all the remaining columns. It
is not needed to check the sway case for each column. The framing
conditions for the columns C2 through C5 are shown in Figures
11.8 through 11.11 below.
Figure 11.9: Framing Condition for Column C2

Column C2 is a Framed General Case with the framing conditon as shown.


Column C3 is a Framed with Fix Base case with the framing conditon as shown.





5.5. Print Report

The Print button is located in the lower right corner as highlighted.

Column Moment Magnifier
12
Column Moment
Example
Magnifier
1. Reference
3.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the Calculation of magnified
moments as per ACI code using the Column Moment Magnifier
module of ACECOMS GEAR software
3. Problem
Determine the magnified moments for the external column of the
second story of the structure shown in Figure 12.1 below. The
cross-section properties are given in Figure 12.2. All the required
data is also provided.
Column Moment Magnifier Example 12
Figure 12.1: Structure in 3D view showing the column whose moments

are to be magnified.

Figure 12.2: The cross-section properties of the column and beam in

question.
X Y Unit
Concrete Strength (fC’) 240 ksc
Story Height (LC) 3.5 m
Column Length (LU) 2.9 m
Total factored axial load for all columns
1000 ton
in that floor (Sum PU)
Total factored shear for all columns in that
30 45 ton
floor (Sum VU)
Relative Lateral Deflection 0.015 0.030 m
Nonsway Moment for Upper Floor (Mns) 2.5 5.0 ton-m
Sway Moment for Upper Floor (Ms) -5.0 -7.5 ton-m
Nonsway Moment for Lower Floor (Mns) 5.0 10.0 ton-m
Sway Moment for Lower Floor (Ms) -10.0 -15.0 ton-m
Column Moment Magnification Factor (δs) ??? ??? ton-m
Design Moment for Upper Floor (Mns+ δs x Ms) ??? ??? ton-m
Design Moment for Lower Floor (Mns+ δs x Ms) ??? ??? ton-m

Following are the main steps required to calculate the magnified

moments for the given column.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Column Moment

Magnifier module
2. Select working units
3. Define basic column data and cross section
4. Check sway case
5. Specify column loads
6. Compute moment magnification factor
7. Create and print report

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Column

Moment Magnifier Module
categories. Column Moment Magnifier is the third module in the RC
Utilities Category located at the upper middle of the start-up screen.
You can activate Column Moment Magnifier by single clicking its
icon, title or description. The following Figure 12.1 shows the startup
screen and the location of Column Moment Magnifier module on
this screen. You can alternatively activate Column Moment
Magnifier using the Column Moment Magnifier Tool on the
main toolbar.
Click Here
Figure 12.3: ACECOMS GEAR Startup screen

Start up screen of ACECOMS GEAR software featuring available modules. The

Select the working units from the Tools>Working Units>> menu

as shown in Figure 12.4 below. In this case, select Metric Units.
Selecting working units will automatically take you to the next step
of inputting data. To move to the next step without selecting working
units (using default units), press Next button.
Figure 12.4: Column Moment Magnifier Module

Select the working units.

5.3. Define Basic Column Data and Cross Section
The first step of moment magnification calculations consists of

defining the basic column data like its clear length, story height,
material strength, cross section properties and axis about which
moment magnification is to be calculated. Provide this data in the
appropriate fields on the Step 1 screen of Column Moment
Magnifier as shown in Figure 12.5 below. To define cross section
properties, press Edit Cross-section button located just below the
diagram. This will open RC Section Rebar Editor as shown in
Figure 12.6.
Figure 12.5: Specify Basic Column Data

Length, Story Height and Material strength can be input in their respective fields
located towards the left of the screen.

In the RC Section Rebar Editor, you can select any shape of cross-section
from the shapes toolbar located at the left. Cross-section dimensions can
be specified on the diagram as shown in the Figure. In this case provide 30
for both height and width, as the column in question is square of 30x30 cm.
Material strength can also be provided in this RC Section Rebar Editor,
which will be updated on return to Moment Magnifier. Press Compute EI to
Calculate EI and press OK to return to Moment Magnifier.
Figure 12.6: Specify Column Cross Section

Select the shape of your choice and specify dimensions.

5.4. Check Sway Case for Upper End

After editing Cross-section, press Next to move to the second step.
In this step, it is checked whether the column is laterally braced or is
subjected to sway. You can either provide the sway condition
directly or check for sway condition by pressing the Check button
that opens Check Column Sway Condition dialogue box. Choose
the method to apply for checking the sway condition and then
provide appropriate input data. In this case select the Stability Index
method as shown in Figure 12.7 and provide Pu = 1000, Vu = 30,
Relative Lateral Deflection = 0.015 and Clear Length = 3.5. Press
Check to check the sway condition. Close this dialogue box to
return to Moment Magnifier.
Figure 12.7: Check Column Sway Condition

Provide the required data after selecting the method to apply. Press Check to check the
column sway condition.

5.5. Specify Column Loads for Upper End
When the column sway condition is checked, press Next to

advance to the third step as shown in Figure 12.8 below. In this
step, provide the column loads data. Type the data given in problem
statement in the appropriate fields and then press Next to conclude
the column moment magnification calculations.
Note: M1 < M2
Figure 12.8: Provide Column Loads

This screen is different for both the conditions i.e. sway and non-sway condition.

5.6. Check Sway Case and Specify Column Loads for

Lower End
Repeat similar process as Step 5.4 and Step 5.5 to check sway
case and specify column loads for lower end.
Figure 12.9: Return to Enter Data Step

5.7. Compute Moment Magnification Factor
After all the three steps are completed, press Compute and
Display Results as shown in Figure 12.9 to perform the moment
magnification calculations and display the results obtained.
Figure 12.10: Compute and Display Results

The converted quantity can be added to the report by pressing the add button as
highlighted.

When Compute and Display Results is pressed, the moment

magnification calculations are performed and the results are displayed as
shown in Figure 12.10 below.
Figure 12.11: Final Results

highlighted.

A report can be created by adding the results to it. This can be done by
pressing Add located below the results display area as shown in Figure
12.11 below. To print the report, press Print as highlighted in the figure.
Figure 12.12: Create and Print Report

highlighted.

Beam Designer
13
Beam Designer:
Example
Section Designer
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 RC Members, User’s Manual Part D,
Chapter 1.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of a beam (one section)
using the Beam Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR2003
software
3. Problem
In the Figure 13.1 below, a beam is loaded and supported as
shown. The material properties and design method to be followed is
also given. Design the beam cross-section.
Beam Designer Example 13
Figure 13.1: Beam elevation and cross-section along with shear force and
bending moment diagrams.

Bending Reinforcement Steel Strength (fY) = 4000 ksc
Shear Reinforcement Steel Strength (fY) = 2400 ksc
Covering = 3.8 cm
Design Code = ACI 318-95
Design Method = Ultimate Strength
Concrete Stress Curve = PCA Parabola

Following are the main steps required to design one beam section:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Beam Designer

Module
3. Define Design Options
4. Specify Design Criteria, Section Dimension, Moment
and Shear
5. Design the Section
6. View Design Results
7. Create Report
8. Print Report and Save File

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Beam

Designer Module

categories. Beam Designer is the first module in the RC Members
category located at the lower middle of the start-up screen. You can
activate Beam Designer by single clicking its icon, title or
the location of Beam Designer module on this screen. You can
alternatively activate Beam Designer using the Beam Designer
Click Here

Start up screen of ACECOMS GEAR software featuring available The desired
modules can be activated by single click on them.

The input data available is in Metric Units. To set Metric Units, go to

Tools>Working Units>Metric Units as shown in Figure 13.3 below.
Figure 13.3: Set Working Units

Select Metric Units on the Tools>Working Units>> menu as shown..

5.3. Define Design Options
To set the RC Design Options like Design Code, Design Method

and Concrete Stress Curve, go to Tools>RC Design Options… as
shown in Figure 13.4. This will open the RC Design Options
dialogue box. as shown in Figure 13.5. In this dialogue box, select
ACI-318-95 Design Code, USD Design Method and PCA Parabola
Concrete Stress Curve from their respective dropdown lists on the
Design Code tab. On the Rebar Set tab, select Metric from the
Rebar Set dropdown list. Press OK to accept changes and return to
Beam Designer.
Figure 13.4: RC Design Options

To set RC Design Options, go to Tools>RC Design Options…

Figure 13.5: RC Design Options – Rebar Set

You can select the rebar set of your choice on the Rebar Set tab.

5.4. Specify Material Properties, Section Dimensions,

Moment and Shear
Material properties can be typed in their respective text boxes
provided at the upper right of the Beam Designer module as shown
in the Figure 13.6 below. The section dimensions can be edited
directly on the diagram. After typing in the section dimensions,
press ReDraw to refresh the section diagram. Type in the value of
Ultimate Design moment in the appropriate text box on the Flexure
tab as shown in Figure 13.7. Also type in the value of Ultimate
Design Shear in the appropriate text box on the Shear tab as shown
in Figure 13.8.
Figure 13.6: Material Properties and Section Dimensions

Material properties can be entered in the upper right portion whereas the section dimensions
can be added directly on the diagram. Press ReDraw after entering section dimensions.

Figure 13.7: Ultimate Design Moment

In the highlighted text box on the Flexure tab, type in the value of Ultimate Design moment.

Figure 13.8: Ultimate Shear

In the highlighted text box on the Shear tab, type in the value of Ultimate Shear.

5.5. Design the Section
When you are finished entering material properties, section

dimensions, moment and shear values, press Design to design the
cross-section. The design calculations are displayed in the results
area as shown in Figure 13.9 below.
Figure 13.9: Design the Section

When the Design button is pressed, the cross-section is designed and the results are

5.6. View Design Results
The design results for Flexure are displayed on the Flexure tab as
shown in Figure 13.10 and those for Shear are displayed on the
Shear tab as shown in Figure 13.11. You can view these results by
clicking on the respective tabs. You can also choose the
appropriate number of bars for top steel, bottom steel or web steel.
from the respective dropdown lists. Press ReDraw after choosing a
different number of bars to refresh the diagram.
Figure 13.10: Flexural Design

The design results for Flexure are displayed on the Flexure tab.

Figure 13.11: Shear Design

The design results for Shear are displayed on the Shear tab.

5.7. Create Report
To create a report, just add the design calculation results to it. You
can add the results displayed in the results area by pressing the Add
button as shown in Figure 13.12 below.

To create a report, add the current results being displayed by pressing Add located below the
results area.

5.8. Print Report and Save File
You can either print results in the report form or save a file to open
later. To print the results in the report form, press Print as shown in
Figure 13.13 below. To save a file, choose the Save tool on the
main toolbar as shown in the Figure 13.13. This action will open a
common dialogue box for saving files. Specify the filename and its
location following the standard windows operations.
Figure 13.13: Print and Save

Press Print to print the results in the report form or Save a file to open it later.

Column Designer
Column Designer Example 14
1. Reference
Chapter 2.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of a short column
subjected to biaxial moment in addition to axial load using the
Column Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR software
3. Problem
Design a column with the following data and cross-section given in
Figure 14.1.
Figure 14.1: Column Cross-section.


Covering = 3.8 cm
Axial Load = 150 ton
Moment in Major Axis (MX) = 25 ton-m
Moment in Major Axis (MY) = 10 ton-m
Following are the main steps required to design the given column.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Column Designer

Module
3. Define design options
4. Specify design criteria and cross section dimensions
5. Specify loading
6. Design column
7. View interaction diagram for P and MX

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Column

Designer Module

categories. Column Designer is the second module in the RC
Members Category located at the lower middle of the start-up
screen. You can activate Column Designer by single clicking its
screen and the location of Column Designer module on this screen.
You can alternatively activate Column Designer using the Column
Designer Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here
Figure 14.2: Activating Column Designer

Start up screen of ACECOMS GEAR software featuring available modules.

Select the working units from the Tools>Working Units>> menu

as shown in Figure 14.3 below. In this case, select Metric Units.
Figure 14.3: Select Working Units

Choose Metric Units from the Tools>Working Units>> menu.

The design options can be defined by selecting RC Design

Options on the Tools menu. This will open the RC Design Options
dialogue box. Select the Design Code tab and choose the design
code: ACI-3108-95, design method: USD and concrete stress
curve: PCA Parabola from the respective dropdown lists. This is
illustrated in Figure 14.4 below.
Figure 14.4: Define Design Options

Design code, design method and concrete stress curve can be defined on the design
code tab of the RC Design Options dialogue box.

The working units for this example are metric; therefore, Metric rebar set
has to be selected. Click on the Rebar Set tab. Choose Metric from the
Rebar Set dropdown list as illustrated in Figure 14.5. Click OK to close this
dialogue box and return to Column Designer.
Figure 14.5: Define Rebar Set

Select the Metric Rebar Set after switching to Rebar Set tab on RC Design Options
dialogue box.

5.4. Specify Design Criteria and Cross Section Dimension

After defining the design options, design criteria like material
strength and cover and cross section have to be defined. Design
criteria can be defined in the appropriate fields towards the upper
right of the Column Designer module. In this case specify fy = 4000,
fc’ = 240 and cover = 3.8. Cross section shape can be selected
from the shapes toolbar located towards the left and cross-section
dimension can be input directly on the diagram. Type in 30 for width
and 50 for depth of the cross-section. After editing the cross-section
dimensions, press Redraw to refresh the diagram.
Figure 14.6: Specify Design Criteria and Cross-section Dimensions

Design criteria can be defined in the appropriate fields whereas cross-section dimensions can
be directly input on the diagram.

5.5. Specify Loading
As shown in Figure 14.7 below, the loading for the column can be
defined in the appropriate fields. In this case define Pu = 150, Mux =
25 and Muy = 10.
Figure 14.7: Specify Loading

Loading can be defined in the highlighted fields.

5.6. Design Column
When the loading has been defined, press Design to design the
column. The results are displayed in the results display area located
towards the right of column designer as highlighted in Figure 14.8
below.
Figure 14.8: Design

When all the input data is complete, press Design to design the column and display
the results in the results display area.

Usually there can be more than one choice for providing the
number and size of bars to achieve the required area of steel.
These choices are available after the design of column at the Bars
dropdown list. Choose the number and size of bars as per your
preference and then press Redraw to update the diagram.
Figure 14.9: Select Number and Size of Bars

The number and size of bars to be provided can be selected from the Bars dropdown
list.

5.7. View Interaction Diagram for P and MX, My
After designing the column and choosing the appropriate number

and size of rebars, press the Interaction Diagram tool on the
main toolbar to open Interaction Diagrams window. On this window,
select Mx-My from the Curve Types and provide a value of 150 for
P. Press Refresh Diagram. You can see the Moment-Moment
interaction diagram for the column that has just been designed.
Figure 14.10: Viewing Interaction Diagram

From amongst several types of interaction diagrams, you can choose the one that
you want to view..

A report can be created by adding the results to it. To do this, press

the Add button located below the results display area. To print this
report either press Print located at the lower right corner of the
column designer module or select the Print tool on the main
toolbar.
Figure 14.11: Create and Print Report

Press Add to add the results to the report and press Print to print the report.

Analysis and Design
of Two-way Slabs
15
Analysis and Design
Example
Of Two-way Slabs
1. Reference
Chapter 3.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of Two-way slabs using
the Two-way Slab Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR software
3. Problem
Design the slabs 1 through 4 given in the following figure. The
relevant data is also given.
Analysis and Design of Two-way Slabs Example 15
Figure 15.1: Plan

Reinforcement Steel Strength (fY) = 4000 ksc
Covering = 3.8 cm
Superimposed Load (Dead Load) = 0.10 ton/m2
Live Load = 0.25 ton/m2

Following are the main steps required to design the given slabs.
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Two-way Slab

Designer module
3. Define design options
4. Specify design data
5. Specify slab cases and dimensions
6. Check and specify thickness
7. Specify loading
8. View analysis and design results

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Two-way Slab

Designer Module

categories. Two-way Slab Designer is the third module in the RC
Members Category located at the bottom center of the start-up
screen. You can activate Two-way Slab Designer by single clicking
its icon, title or description. The following Figure 15.2 shows the
startup screen and the location of Two-way Slab Designer module
on this screen. You can alternatively activate Two-way Slab
Designer using the Two-way Slab Designer Tool on the main
toolbar.
Click Here

Start up screen of ACECOMS GEAR software featuring availablemodules. The

Change the working units to Metric by clicking on the Metric Units

tool located on the main toolbar. This will result in a warning
message that New Slabs will be started. Press No to proceed.
Figure 15.3: Two-way Slab Designer Module

Select the desired working units from the main toolbar.

Before designing the slabs, define the design options like the design
code to be used, the concrete stress-strain curve to be used and
the rebar set to be used. To define design options go to Tools>RC
Design Options.
Figure 15.4: Defining Design Options

Design code, design method and concrete stress-strain curve are defined on this tab.

Figure 15.5: Defining Rebar Set

5.4. Specify Design Data

The design data like material strengths; covers and minimum
thickness etc. can be specified in the relevant fields given in the left
portion of the Two-way slab designer module.
Figure 15.6: Specifying Design Data

Specify the design data into the relevant fields as shown.

5.5. Specify Slab Cases and Dimensions
For all the four slabs given in the problem statement, specify the
slab continuity cases and the dimensions in the relevant fields as
highlighted in Figure 15.7 below.
Figure 15.7: Slab Cases and Dimensions

Provide the slab continuity cases and dimensions.

5.6. Check and Specify Thickness
Figure 15.8: Check Required Thickness

Press the Auto Thickness button to calculate the minimum required thickness for the
given slabs.
Based on the calculated minimum thickness required, you can

provide a minimum thickness to be used for all the slabs in order to
maintain an uniform thickness. Provide this thickness in the Min.
Thickness text box. This will result in a message box “Thickness of
slab is less than minimum thickness specified. Do you want to use
this thickness?” when going forward to the Moments tab. Answer
No to this message box to discard the calculated thicknesses and
use the minimum thickness specified by you for all slabs to make it
uniform.

Figure 15.9: Specify Minimum Thickness

Loading can be specified in the relevant fields as highlighted. If you

want to update the same loading for all slabs, provide it in the lower
left corner of the screen and press Update for All Slabs button.

5.8. View Analysis and Design Results
Figure 15.15: View Moment

Shift to the Moment tab to view the analysis results.

Figure 15.12: View Required Reinforcement

Shift to Steel tab to view the required reinforcement areas at different slab locations.

Figure 15.13: View Rebars

To view the required rebars at different slab locations change to Rebars tab.

Figure 15.14: View Sketch

To view the sketches of the designed slabs, change to Sketch tab. All slabs can be
viewed by pressing the Next Slab and Previous Slab buttons.

5.9. Crate and Print Report
Figure 15.15: Generate Report

After generating report print it using the Print Report on the same menu.

Analysis and Design of Flat Slab
16
Analysis and Design
Example
of Flat Slab
1. Reference
Chapter 4.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of a Flat Plate using the
Flat Slab Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR2003 software
3. Problem
Design flat plate with the elevation and plan as shown in the Figure
16.1. The material properties, loading and design method to be
followed are also given.
Covering = 3.8 cm
Dead Load (Finishing) = 0.15 ton/m2
Live Load = 0.25 ton/m2
Analysis and Design of Flat Slab Example 16
Figure 16.1: Flat Plate Plan and Elevation

Following are the main steps required to design flat plate:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Flat Slab

Designer Module
4. Specify Material Properties, Default Geometry and Load
Data for Exterior-X Strip
5. Select Geometry Type for Exterior-X Strip
6. Modify Geometry and Cross Section for Exterior-X strip
7. Analysis and Design for Exterior-X Strip
8. Create and Print Report for Exterior-X Strip
9. Save File for Exterior-X Strip
10. Analysis and Design for the Rest of Strips (Interior-X,
Exterior-Y and Interior-Y)

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Flat Slab

Designer Module

categories. Flat Slab Designer is the last module in the RC
Members category located at the lower middle of the start-up
screen. You can activate Flat Slab Designer by single clicking its
screen and the location of Flat Slab Designer module on this
screen. You can alternatively activate Flat Slab Designer using the
Flat Slab Designer Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here




Select Metric Units on the Tools>Working Units>> menu as shown and click Next


and Concrete Stress-strain Curve, click on RC Design Options button
as shown in Figure 16.4. This will open the RC Design Options
Design Code tab. On the Rebar Set tab as shown in Figure 16.5,
select Metric from the Rebar Set dropdown list. Press OK to accept
changes and return to Flat Slab Designer.
Figure 16.4: RC Design Options.

To set RC Design Options, click on RC Design Options button.



5.4. Specify Material Properties, Default Geometry and Load

Data for Exterior-X Strip
Material properties can be typed in their respective text boxes
provided at the upper Left of the Flat Slab Designer module as
shown in the Figure 16.6 below. Specify default geometry data and
load data.
Figure 16.6: Material Properties, Default Geometry Data and Default Load Data
Material properties can be entered in the right portion whereas the default geometry data and
load data can be specify in the left of this dialogue. Press Next to go to next step.

5.5. Select Geometry Type for Exterior-X Strip
Figure 16.7: Geometry Type

Select Floor Type, Floor Location and Strip Location as shown in above figure and click
Next.

5.6. Modify Geometry and Cross Section for Exterior-X Strip

Span length, column height, cross section and individual load can
be specified and modified from this dialogue.
Figure 16.8: Check Minimum Slab Thickness

Click on Compute Minimum Sizes button to check minimum slab thickness. For this
example, required slab thickness are less than specified thickness (25 cm) then click Cancel to
skip this dialogue.

Figure 16.9: Specify Column Cross Section

Click on Column button, select all columns by drawing rectangular line to cover them and
click on Member Properties button. Specify cross section dimension.

Figure 16.10: Check minimum and Specify Slab Thickness

Slab Thickness is specified to all panels as entered in step 5.4. To modify or check,
click on Slab Strip button, draw rectangular cover all slab strip to select all of them
and click on Member Properties button that will open

Figure 16.11: Change to Plan View

All Section properties can be specified from this plan view by the same procedure as
in elevation view. To change to plan view, click on Plan View button.

5.7. Analysis and Design for Exterior-X Strip
Figure 16.12: View Dimension Summary

Span length, width and %distribution factors can be viewed from Dimensions Tab

Figure 16.13: View Analysis Results

Moment and Shear diagram can be displayed from Analysis Results tab. Load case or load
combinations can be changed by selecting item at the bottom-left of this dialogue, clicking
Refresh button and selecting from drop-down menu. The analysis results can be viewed in
tabular form by clicking on Text View button.

Figure 16.14: View Shear Checking Results

Total Shear, total moment, shear stress and shear stress capacities in each column
can be view in Shear Check tab. If Remarks column shows Not OK that mean shear
stress is more than shear stress capacity.

Figure 16.15: View Design Actions

Maximum and minimum design moment and shear summary can be displayed in
Design Action tab.

Figure 16.16: View Reinforcement Summary

GEAR will find required reinforcement in each strip from design moment and shear.
Summarize of these reinforcement are displayed in Reinforcement tab.

Figure 16.17: View Rebar Layout

Rebar layout can be displayed in Rebar Layout tab.

5.8. Generate and Print Report for Exterior-X Strip
Figure 16.18: Specify Project Information

Go to Report > Project Information.

Figure 16.19: Select Items to be added in the Report

Go to Report > Report Item Contents.

Figure 16.20: Customize Report

Report format and layout can be customized from Report > Report Format.

Figure 16.21: Generate Report

Go to Report > Generate Report.

5.9. Save File for Exterior-X Strip
Figure 16.22: Save File

5.10. Analysis and Design for the Rest of Strips (Interior-X,

Exterior-Y and Interior-Y)
Start a new file by clicking the New File icon as shown in Figure
16.23. Repeat Steps 5.2 to 5.9 to analyze and design for Interior-X,
Exterior-Y and Interior-Y
Figure 16.23: New File

Steel Strut Designer
Steel Strut Designer Example 17
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 Steel Members, User’s Manual Part E,
Chapter 1.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of a steel strut using the
Steel Strut Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR2003 software
3. Problem
Check the upper and lower cords of the steel truss bridge that
elevation shows in the Figure 17.1. The material properties, loading
to be followed are also given.
Yield Stress of Steel (FY) = 2,400 ksc
Ultimate Stress of Steel (FU) = 4,000 ksc
Accepted Stress Ratio = 0.8 -1.05
Max. Slenderness Limit for Compression = 200
Max. Slenderness Limit for Tension = 300
Max. Tension in Members = 220 ton
Max. Compression in Members = 200 ton
Member Length (Lx and Ly) = 2.5 m
Steel Section = H 612x202x134 kg/m
Figure17.1: Steel Truss bridge
Following are the main steps required to design flat plate:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Steel Strut

Designer Module
3. Define Design Criteria
4. Select Steel Section
5. Specify Loading and Bracing Data
6. Check Steel Section

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Steel Strut

Designer Module

categories. Steel Strut Designer is the first module in the Steel
Members category located at the upper right of the start-up screen.
You can activate Steel Strut Designer by single clicking its icon, title
or description. The following Figure 17.2 shows the startup screen
and the location of Steel Strut Designer module on this screen. You
can alternatively activate Steel Strut Designer using the Steel Strut
Designer Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here





5.3. Define Design Criteria
Design criteria such as steel yield strength and ultimate strength

need to be specified prior to design.
Figure 17.4: Define Stress of Material and Stress Ratio

Specify parameters as shown in above figure.

Figure 17.5: Define Slenderness Limit

Select “Options” tab and enter slenderness limit as shown in above figure.

5.4. Select Steel Section
Figure 17.6: Select Steel Section

Select “H 612x202x134 kg/m)” (for this example) from drop-down menu list and click on
“Refresh” button to update section.

Figure 17.7: View Section Properties

Select “Properties” tab to view selected section properties.

5.5. Specify Loading and Bracing Data
Figure 17.8: Specify Loading and Bracing Data

Click on “Loading And Bracing Data” button and enter parameters as shown in above figure.

5.6. Check Steel Section
Figure 17.9: Check Steel Section

Click on “Investigate” button to design selected section (from step 5.4 ) by using specified
loading and bracing data (from step 5.5).

Figure 17.10: Add Current Result to Report

Click on “Add” button to add current result to report.


Report can be previewed before printing by clicking on “Preview” button.


Report can be printed from “Print” button in main screen or in preview window.

Steel Beam Designer
Steel Beam Designer Example 18
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 Steel Member, User’s Manual Part E,
Chapter 2.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of a steel Beam using
the Steel Beam Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR2003
software
3. Problem
Find the most appropriate H section for beam as shown in the
Figure 18.1. The material properties and design criteria to be
Figure18.1: Loading, Bending Moment and Shear Diagram

Following are the main steps required to design steel beam:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Steel Beam

Designer Module
3. Define Material Properties and Design Criteria
4. Select Steel Section Type
6. Design and Select Appropriate Section

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Steel Beam

Designer Module

categories. Steel Beam Designer is the second module in the Steel
You can activate Steel Beam Designer by single clicking its icon,
title or description. The following Figure 18.2 shows the startup
screen and the location of Steel Beam Designer module on this
screen. You can alternatively activate Steel Beam Designer using
the Steel Beam Designer Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here





5.3. Define Material Properties and Design Criteria
Material properties and design criteria need to be defined before

designing the beam.


5.4. Select Steel Section Type

Press Choose Sections button to open the Section Selection
Criteria dialogue box. Choose the categories of sections you want
to include in your sections list and also other limitations on weight,
height and width etc.
Figure 18.5: Select Steel Section Type

To select only H-Section type for design, click on “Choose Sections” button, select only “H-
Section” type and click on “Update Section List” button.


Click on “Loading And Bracing Data” button and enter parameters as shown above figure and
following table.
Bracing Data in Y-Axis
Sr.No. Seg. Start End Cb1 Cb2
1 1 0.00 5.00 1.00 1.00
Loading
Distance Mx My Vx Vy
Sr.No Caption
(m) (ton-m) (ton-m) (ton) (ton)
1 Left-Support 0.00 0.00 0.00 5.00 0.00
2 Mid-Span 2.50 6.25 0.00 0.00 0.00
3 Right-Support 5.00 0.00 0.00 -5.00 0.00

5.6. Design and Select Appropriate Section
Figure 18.7: Design and Check Appropriate Sections

Click on “Design” button and all selected sections (H-Section for this example) that pass
design criteria will be added in the drop-down menu list.







Steel Column Designer
Steel Column Designer Example 19
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 Steel Member, User’s Manual Part E,
Chapter 3.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of a steel Column using
the Steel Column Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR2003
software
3. Problem
Design column (H 300x150x36.7 kg/m) for gable frame as shown in
the Figure 19.1. The material properties and design criteria to be
Max. Slenderness Limit for Compression = 200
Max. Slenderness Limit for Tension = 300
Effective Length Factor (KX) = 1.27
Effective Length Factor (KY) = 0.80
Bending Coefficient (Cb) = 2.3
Moment Coefficient (Cmx) = 0.85
Figure19.1: Overall Frame Geometry and Loading Diagram

Following are the main steps required to design steel column:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Steel Column

Designer Module
3. Define Material Properties and Design Criteria
4. Select Steel Section
6. Design Steel Section

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Steel Column

Designer Module

categories. Steel Column Designer is the last module in the Steel
You can activate Steel Column Designer by single clicking its icon,
title or description. The following Figure 19.2 shows the startup
screen and the location of Steel Column Designer module on this
screen. You can alternatively activate Steel Column Designer using
the Steel Column Designer Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here




Select Metric Units on the Tools>Working Units>> menu as shown.. and click Next

5.3. Define Material Properties and Design Criteria


Figure 19.5: Define Slenderness Limit

Select “Options” tab and enter slenderness limit as shown in above figure.

5.4. Select Steel Section
Figure 19.6: Select Steel Section

To select H 300x150x36.7 Kg/m from drop-down menu and click “Refresh” to update
section.


Click on “Loading And Bracing Data” button to activate “Steel Loading and Bracings”
dialogue. Enter bracing data (X-Axis and Y-Axis) and Design Load Combination-1 as shown
in above figure.
Bracing Data in Y-Axis
Sr.No. Seg. Start End Ky Cb1 Cb2 Cmy1 Cmy2
1 1 0.00 5.00 0.80 2.3 - - -
Loading
Distance P Mx My Vx Vy
Sr.No Caption
(m) (ton) (ton-m) (ton-m) (ton) (ton)
1 Support 0.0 4.0 3.0 - 1.5 -
2 Top 5.0 4.0 5.0 - 1.5 -
Note: Cb2, Cmy1, Cmy2, My and Vy are not required in this example.

5.6. Design Section
Figure 19.8: Design Section

Click on “Investigate” button to design selected section. The result details are in the result
area.







Isolated Footing Designer
20
Isolated
Example
Footing Designer
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 Foundations, User’s Manual Part F,
Chapter 1.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of an isolated footing
using the Isolated Footing Designer module of ACECOMS
GEAR2003 software
3. Problem
Design isolated footing with elevation shown in the Figure 20.1. The
material properties, loading and design method to be followed is
also given.
Covering = 5 cm
Soil Bearing Capacity = 10 ton/m2
Soil Density = 1.8 ton/m3
Concrete Density = 2.4 ton/m3
Isolated Footing Designer Example 20
Load Case: 1.4D + 1.7L

Axial Load 50 Ton
Moment (MX) 20 Ton-m
Moment (MY) 10 Ton-m
Load Factor (see Note:1) 1.45
Over Stress Factor (see Note:2) 1.00
Note: 1. This load factor is averaged from each load factor in load case
Ex. Load Factor for 1.4DL+ 1.7LL = (1.4xDL + 1.7xLL)/ (DL+LL)
2. Over stress factor is for some load combination that allow to
increase strength of material
Ex. Over Stress Factor for 0.75(1.4DL+1.7LL) is 1.33 (1/0.75)
Figure 20.1: Isolated Footing Elevation

Following are the main steps required to design isolated footing:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Isolated Footing

Designer Module
4. Specify Design Criteria and Column Section
5. Specify Loading
6. Design Isolated Footing

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Isolated

Footing Designer Module

categories. Isolated Footing Designer is the first module in the
Foundations category located at the lower right of the start-up
screen. You can activate Isolated Footing Designer by single
clicking its icon, title or description. The following Figure 20.2 shows
the startup screen and the location of Isolated Footing Designer
module on this screen. You can alternatively activate Isolated
Footing Designer using the Isolated Footing Designer Tool on the
main toolbar.
Click Here





and Concrete Stress Curve, go to Tools>RC Design Options… as
shown in Figure 20.4. This will open the RC Design Options
Design Code tab. On the Rebar Set tab, select Metric from the
Rebar Set dropdown list. Press OK to accept changes and return to
Beam Designer.




5.4. Specify Design Criteria and Column Section

Design Criteria can be typed in their respective text boxes provided
at the upper Left of the Isolated Footing Designer module as shown
in the Figure 20.6 below.
Figure 20.6: Specify Design Criteria

Specify design criteria as shown in above figure.

Figure 20.7: Define Column Cross Section

Select column cross section by clicking on “…” button, selecting cross section type, entering
section dimension and clicking on “Refresh” button.


As shown in Figure 20.8 below, the loading for the isolated footing
can be defined in the table at the lower left of the screen.

Enter Loading data as shown in above figure.

5.6. Design Isolated Footing
Figure 20.9: Start Design

Click on “Design” button to start design isolated footing. The design result will display in
drawing form in right part of screen.

Figure 20.10: View Design Result in text format

Select “Results” tab to display design result in text format.


Click on “Current” to add current result to report.


Report can be previewed by clicking on “Preview” button.


Click on “Print” button located in bottom of preview screen.

Pile Cap Designer
Pile Cap Designer Example 21
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 Foundations, User’s Manual Part F,
Chapter 2.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the design of a pile cap using the
Pile Cap Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR2003 software
3. Problem
Design a pile cap with elevation and plan shown in the Figure 21.1.
The material properties, loading and design method to be followed
are also given.
Covering = 5 cm
Load Case P (ton) MX (ton-m) MY (ton-m)

Dead Load 60 10 15
Live Load 20 2 5
Figure21.1: Pile Cap Plan and Elevation

Following are the main steps required to design pile cap:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Pile Cap Designer

Module
4. Specify Pier (Column) and Pile Geometry
5. Specify Design Parameters
6. Specify Loading
7. Specify Individual Pile Location
8. Specify Design Section
9. Analyze Pile Cap
10. Design Pile Cap

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Pile Cap

Designer Module

categories. Pile Cap Designer is the third module in the
Foundations category located at the lower right of the start-up
screen. You can activate Pile Cap Designer by single clicking its
screen and the location of Pile Cap Designer module on this
screen. You can alternatively activate Pile Cap Designer using the
Pile Cap Designer Tool on the main toolbar.
Click Here






and Concrete Stress Curve, go to Tools>RC Design Options…or click
on “Set RC Design Options” button as shown in Figure 21.4. This
will open the RC Design Options dialogue box. as shown in Figure
21.5. In this dialogue box, select ACI-318-95 Design Code, USD
Design Method and PCA Parabola Concrete Stress Curve from
their respective dropdown lists on the Design Code tab. On the
Rebar Set tab, select Metric from the Rebar Set dropdown list.
Press OK to accept changes and return to Beam Designer.




5.4. Specify Pier (Column) and Pile Geometry
Figure 21.6: Specify Number of Pier and Cross Section

Select number of pier from the list and specify pier cross section by clicking on “…” button.
Select rectangular button, specify dimension and click on “Refresh” button.

Figure 21.7: Specify Number of Piles, Pile Spacing and Cross Section
Select number of pile (6 piles for this example), specify pile cross section by clicking on “…”
button and enter pile spacing.
Note: Edge Distance is distance from edge of pile cap to edge of pile
X-Spacing and Y-Spacing are distance between center to center of pile

5.5. Specify Design Parameters
Figure 21.8: Specify Design Parameters

Specify design parameters as shown in above figure.


Pile cap plan as specified from previous step display in right of screen. In this dialogue,
location of pier can be relocated by specifying “Center X0” and “Center Y0”. Click on
“Compute Factored Loads” button.

Figure 21.10: Specify Load Case

For this example, there are 2 load cases (Dead and Live Load). Enter both load cases as
shown in above figure and click on “Compute” button.

Figure 21.11: Compute Load Combination

All possible load combination according to design code (specify in Step 5.3) will be
calculated. For this example, there is only one load combination (1.4DL+1.7LL). click “OK”
button to end this step.


Load combination is added to the table, click “Next” button to go to next step.

5.7. Specify Individual Pile Location

Pile location can be specified individually from left table of this
screen. This step is not required for this example
Figure 21.13: Skip this Step

Click on “Next” button without doing anything to skip this step..

5.8. Specify Design Section

8 default design sections (4 sections for each direction) are
specified and enough for this example, this step can be skipped.
Additional section can be specified by entering desired location in
table at left screen
Figure 21.14: Skip this Step

Click on “Next” button without doing anything to skip this step..

5.9. Analyze Pile Cap
Figure 21.15: Start Analyze

To start analyze, click on “Analyze Pilecap and Display Results” or “Next” button.

Figure 21.16: View Analyze Results

Analyze results in each design section (that specified in step 5.8) are displayed in lect table
and pile reactions are displayed in right table. Click on “Next” to start design.

5.10. Design Pile Cap
Figure 21.17: View Design Results

Pile cap will be designed after clicking “Next” button from previous step. Design results will
be displayed in this dialogue. Design section can be changed by clicking on left or righ button
and clickig on “Refresh View’ buttn. Number and size of rebars can be selected from list in
drop-down menu and click on “Refresh View” to redraw section sketch.

Figure 21.18: Create Report

Click on “Add” button to create report.

Figure 21.19: Preview and Print Report

To preview report, click on “Preview” button and click on print button to print this report.

Driven Pile Designer: Pile Capacity
22
Driven Pile Designer:
Example
Pile Capacity
1. Reference
ACECOMS GEAR2003 RC Members, User’s Manual Part F
Chapter 3.
2. Objective
To demonstrate and practice on the analysis of a pile’s capacity
using the Driven Pile Designer module of ACECOMS GEAR2003
software
3. Problem
Carry out the analysis capacity of I 35cm x 35cm x 21m driven
concrete pile with following details and using “Danish” method
Hammer Type = Drop

Weight of Hammer = 4 ton
Penetration Length = 0.1 m
Number of blow Count = 18
Safety Factor = 3.5
Pile Length = 21 m
Pile Area = 805 cm2
Cap Type = Broomed Wood
Weight of Cap = 0.05 ton
Hammer Efficiency = 0.85
Drop Height = 0.30 m
Driven Pile Designer: Pile Capacity Example 22
Following are the main steps required to find out the pile capacity:
Main Steps
1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Driven Pile

Designer Module
3. Select Analysis Type and Method
4. Input Analysis Parameters
5. Calculate Pile Capacity
6. Create Report
7. Preview and Print Report

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Driven Pile

Designer Module

categories. Driven Pile Designer is the last of Foundations category
located at the lower right of the start-up screen. You can activate
Driven Pile Designer by single clicking its icon, title or description.
of Driven Pile Designer module on this screen. You can alternatively
activate Driven Pile Designer using the Driven Pile Designer Tool
on the main toolbar.
Click Here




Select Metric Units on the Tools>Working Units>> menu as shown..

5.3. Select Analysis Type and Method
Figure 22.3: Select Analysis Type and Method

Select “Danish” from drop-down menu and selct “Pile Capacity”.

5.4. Input Analysis Parameters
Figure 22.4: Input Analysis Parameters

Input analysis parameters as shown in above figure.

5.5. Calculate Pile Capacity.
Figure 22.5: Calculate Pile Capacity

When the Compute button is pressed, pile capacity is calculated and the results are

Figure 22.6: View Results

Result can be displayed by clicking on “….” Button.

5.6. Create Report
To create a report, just add the analysis calculation results to it. You
can add the results displayed in the results area by pressing the Add
button as shown in Figure 22.7 below.

To create a report, add the current results being displayed by pressing Add located below the
results area.

5.7. Preview and Print Report

To preview report, press Preview button as shown in above figure.


The report can be printed by pressing Print button as shown in above figure.

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ACECOMS GEAR ®

General Engineering Assistance and Reference

Asian Center for Engineering Version

Further information and copies of this documentation may be obtained from:

Tel: (662) 524-5539

© Copyright ACECOMS, AIT, 2003.

THE USER MUST EXPLICITLY UNDERSTAND THE ASSUMPTIONS OF THE PROGRAM

Example 1: Unit Converter 1-1 to 1-10

Example 2: Engineering Constants 2-1 to 2-5

Example 3: Dead Load Reference 3-1 to 3-5

Example 4: Factored Loads 4-1 to 4-9

Example 5: Load Combination Calculator 5-1 to 5-16

Example 6: Triangle Solver 6-1 to 6-6

Example 7: Circle Solver 7-1 to 7-6

Example 8: Polygon Solver 8-1 to 8-7

Example 9: Property Calculator 9-1 to 9-9

Example 10: Rebar Calculator 10-1 to 10-9

Example 11: Column K-Factor Calculator 11-1 to 11-15

Example 12: Column Moment Magnifier 12-1 to 12-14

Example 13: Beam Designer 13-1 to 13-15

Example 14: Column Designer 14-1 to 14-12

Example 15: Analysis and Design of 15-1 to 15-17

Example 16: Analysis and Design of 16-1 to 16-25

Example 17: Steel Strut Designer 17-1 to 17-13

Example 18: Steel Beam Designer 18-1 to 18-12

Example 19: Steel Column Designer 19-1 to 19-13

Example 20: Isolated Footing Designer 20-1 to 20-15

Example 21: Pile Cap Designer 21-1 to 21-21

Example 22: Driven Pile Designer 22-1 to 22-13

Length of a Bridge 8 Mile ??? Km

4. Solution – Key Steps

Following are the main steps required to convert the given

1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Unit Converter

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-2

5. Step by Step Guide

5.1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and Activate Unit Converter

Start ACECOMS GEAR software. The start-up screen of

Figure 1.1: Start ACECOMS GEAR

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-3

5.2. Select the type of quantity

Select the type of quantity from the Quantity to Convert list. To

Figure 1.2: Unit Converter Module

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-4

5.3. Select Units Before and After Conversion

Figure 1.3: Selection of Units

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-5

5.4. Specify Quantity

Figure 1.4: Specify the Quantity

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-6

5.5. Add Results to Report

Figure 1.5: Add to Report

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-7

5.6. Complete All Quantities Given in Problem

Figure 1.6: Complete all Quantities

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-8

5.7. Print and Save Results to Text File

Figure 1.7: Print Results

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-9

Figure 1.6: Save Results

GEAR Tutorial Examples 1-10

Quantity Value Unit

4. Solution – Key Steps

1. Start ACECOMS GEAR and activate Engineering