Detailing 90 Enu

Xsteel
Detailing Manual
Product version 9.0 June 2003

Copyright 2003 Tekla Corporation
"Copyright 1992-2003 Tekla Corporation. All rights reserved. This Software Manual has been developed for use with the referenced Software. Use of the Software, and use of this Software Manual are governed by a License Agreement. Among other provisions, the License Agreement sets certain warranties for the Software and this Manual, disclaims other warranties, limits recoverable damages, defines permitted uses of the Software, and determines whether you are an authorized user of the Software. Please refer to the License Agreement for important obligations and applicable limitations and restrictions on your rights. In addition, this Software Manual is protected by copyright law and by international treaties. Unauthorized reproduction, display, modification, or distribution of this Manual, or any portion of it, may result in severe civil and criminal penalties, and will be prosecuted to the full extent permitted by law. Tekla, Xcity, Xengineer, Xpipe, Xpower, Xsteel, and Xstreet are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Tekla Corporation in the European Union, the United States, and/or other countries. Other product and company names mentioned in this Manual are or may be trademarks of their respective owners. By referring to a third-party product or brand, Tekla does not intend to suggest an affiliation with or endorsement by such third party and disclaims any such affiliation or endorsement, except where otherwise expressly stated. Elements of the software described in this Manual may be the subject of pending patent applications in the European Union and/or other countries.
Contents
Preface......................................................................................................... 1
Getting Started ............................................................................................ 5

1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 Basics .................................................................................................... 5 Using connections ................................................................................. 13 Defining parts and plates........................................................................ 17 Defining bolts and welds ........................................................................ 20 AutoConnection..................................................................................... 30 AutoDefaults ......................................................................................... 32
Steel Connection Properties .................................................................. 35

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Notch ................................................................................................... 35 Haunch................................................................................................. 42 Stiffeners .............................................................................................. 44 Beam cut .............................................................................................. 48 Doubler plate ........................................................................................ 51 Angle box ............................................................................................. 53
Custom elements...................................................................................... 57
3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 Defining custom elements ...................................................................... 58 Editing custom elements ........................................................................ 64 Defining variables .................................................................................. 67 Managing and using custom elements..................................................... 78 Custom elements reference.................................................................... 87
XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL
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Appendix B : Connection Map ............................................................. 89 Index ......................................................................................................... 133
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XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL
Preface
Introduction
This is the Xsteel Detailing Manual, a comprehensive guide to Xsteel modeling software. The following paragraphs explain how this guide is organized, suggest different paths for different types of user, describe the other guides provided in the package, and tell you how to report any problems you have with the software or guides.
Audience
This guide is aimed at structural engineers, detailers and designers who model and design steel structures. We assume that you are familiar with the processes of structural engineering.
Additional help resources

The following resources also provide information about Xsteel:
Web site
http://www.tekla.com
Email
Contact your local helpdesk via email: Area office Brazil China Finland France Email address suporte@teklabrasil.com.br xsteelsupport@tekla.com xsteelsupport@tekla.com support-xsteel@fr.tekla.com
XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Preface
Area office Germany Japan Malaysia Middle East Sweden UK US
Email address xsteelsupportgermany@de.tekla.com xsteelsupport-japan@jp.tekla.com xsteelsupport@tekla.com.my XsteelSupport-ME@tekla.com xsteelsupport@se.tekla.com xsteelsupport@tekla.co.uk xsteelsupport-atlanta@ga.tekla.com
If you believe you have discovered a problem with this software, please report it to your Xsteel Reseller using the maintenance request form provided at Help > Xsteel on the Web > Maintenance request.... Please send any comments or suggestions about Xsteel documentation to BetC_Documentation@tekla.com.
Conventions used in this guide

Typefaces
We use different typefaces for different items in this guide. In most cases the meaning is obvious from the context. If you are not sure what a certain typeface represents, you can check it here. Any text that you see in the user interface appears in bold. Items such as window and dialog box titles, field and button names, combo box options, and list box items are displayed in this typeface. New terms are in italic bold when they appear in the current context for the first time. All the text you enter yourself appears in "quotation marks". We use italics for emphasis. Extracts of Xsteels program code, HTML, or other material that you would normally edit in a text editor, appears in monospaced Courier font. Program names, such as functions, environment variables, and parameters, appear in Courier bold. Filenames and folder paths appear in Arial.
Noteboxes
We use several types of noteboxes, marked by different icons. Their functions are shown below: A tip might introduce a shortcut, or suggest alternative ways of doing things. A tip never contains information that is absolutely necessary.
A note draws attention to details that you might easily overlook. It can also point you to other information in this guide that you might find useful.
You should always read very important notes and warnings, like this one. They will help you avoid making serious mistakes, or wasting your time.
This symbol indicates advanced or highly technical information that is usually of interest only to advanced or technicallyoriented readers. You are never required to understand this kind of information.
Related guides
Xsteel includes a comprehensive help system in a series of online books. You will also receive a printed installation guide with your setup CD. Modeling Manual How to create a physical model. Detailing Manual How to create connections and details. Drawing Manual How to create and edit drawings. System Manual Covers advanced features and how to maintain the Xsteel environment. TplEd Users Guide How to create and edit report and drawing templates. SymEd Users Guide How to use the SymEd graphical interface to manipulate symbols. Installation Guide Printed booklet explaining how to install Xsteel.
Organization
This guide is divided into the following chapters and appendices:
Chapter 1: Getting Started

Explains basics of Xsteel connections.
Chapter 2: Steel Connection Properties

Explains common properties of Xsteel steel connections.
Chapter 3: Custom elements

Explains how to define your own connections and details.
Appendix B: Connection Map

Describes the parametric profiles available in Xsteel.
Getting Started
Introduction
Once you have created a frame of parts in your Xsteel model, you will need to connect those parts to complete the model. Xsteel contains a wide range of connections, macros, and details that you can use to automate the process of creating a model. This chapter explains the basics about connections - what they are and how to create them using Xsteel. We will begin with the basic concepts, followed by a general description of connection properties. Finally, we will show you how to use connections in practice.
Contents
This chapter is divided into the following topics: Basics (p. 5) Using connections (p. 13) Defining parts and plates (p. 17) Defining bolts and welds (p. 20) AutoConnection (p. 30) AutoDefaults (p. 32)
1.1 Basics
Introduction
Connections are tools that you can use to automatically create the parts, welds, and bolts required to connect parts. They are linked to main parts, so, when you modify a main part, the associated connection also changes.
XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started
Benefits
The main benefits of working with connections are: 1. You can save the properties of a connection using an easily-identifiable name and keep it for future use. For example, you could save the properties of a W12x65 column base plate connection as W12x65.j*, and use it for several projects. When you modify the size of a profile, Xsteel automatically modifies the relevant connections. When you use Copy or Mirror, Xsteel automatically includes all the associated connections.
2. 3.
Connection concepts
Connections are tools that automate tasks and group objects so that Xsteel treats them as a single unit. Connections adapt to changes in the model, so that Xsteel automatically modifies a connection if you modify the parts it connects. This is an example of how to apply a connection: 1. Pick the main part To see information about the connection, click the connection symbol
2. Pick the secondary part. The connection automatically creates the required parts, fittings, bolts, etc.
Connection types
We use the term connection as a general term for: Item Connections Description Connect two or more parts, and create all the required objects (cuts, fittings, parts, bolts, welds etc.). Examples Two-sided clip angle, bolted gusset. Symbol
Item Macros
Description Automatically create and assemble the parts to build a component, but does not connect the component to existing parts. Macros can include connections and details. Add a detail to a main part. A detail is only connected to one part. When you create a detail, Xsteel prompts you to pick a part, followed by a point to locate the detail.
Examples Stairs, frames
Symbol
Details
Stiffeners, base plates, lifting hooks
See also
Exploding connections (p. 58)
Connection toolbars
Introduction
You will find all the available connections on the connection toolbars, located to the right of the main Xsteel window. If the toolbars are not visible, click Window > Toolbars > Connections, to display them. This is an example of toolbars and the functions they contain: Initiates the last connection you used Use the arrows to flip through the toolbars to check which connections are available Double-click to display the list of user-defined connections
Usage
Toolbar number or symbol
Connection icons
Toolbar organization
The contents of the toolbars are grouped so that similar items appear on the same toolbar. In toolbar order, from 1 to 13, the groups are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Connections used in intermediate floor constructions (end plate, shear plate, clip angle etc.) As 1, plus DSTV Notching Gussets, bracing Details (stiffeners, base plates etc.) Accessories Connections used in roof constructions (seatings, purlins, etc.) Splices, offshore macros Macros, halls
10. Stairs, handrails 11. Stanchions, stringers 12. Joists, consoles 13. Cold rolled, cladding.
Cold-rolled macros
Xsteel also includes several toolbars containing cold-rolled macros from different manufacturers. You choose to install these as separate plug-ins when you install Xsteel.
Connection dialog box

The connection dialog box is in two sections.
Upper part
You use the upper section of the dialog box to save and load predefined settings, see Save, Load, Save as, Help in the Modeling manual. For some connections, it also contains buttons for accessing the bolt, weld and DSTV dialog boxes. For information on handling the saved properties, see Connection properties files in the System manual.
Tabs
The green connection symbol indicates the correct direction for the connection.
Xsteel uses the automatic property value
Xsteel uses the default property value The parts you select appear in blue.
Lower part
The parts the connection creates appear in yellow
The lower section of the dialog box is divided into tabs. This is where you define the properties of the parts and bolts that the connection creates. The most common tabs that appear here are:
Picture illustrates the connection. It shows just one example, but you can usually use one connection in many situations. Parts is where you define the properties of the parts the connection creates Parameters is where you set parameters to control the connection (for example, for stiffeners, end plates, chamfers, etc.)
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Bolts is where you define the number of bolts and their edge distances General is where you define the direction of the connection and AutoDefaults rules
Picking order
To create a connection you need to pick existing parts or points. The default picking order for a connection is: 1. 2. 3. Main part Secondary part(s) If there is more than one secondary part, click the middle mouse button to finish selecting parts and create the connection.
Some connection dialog boxes illustrate the picking order for parts using numbers, as shown below:
Pick the parts in the order shown in the Picture
Details
The default picking order for a detail is: 1. 2. Main part. A point in the main part to show the location of the detail.
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Macros
The default picking order for a macro is: 1. Pick one to three point(s) to show the location of the objects the macro creates.
Up direction
The up direction of a connection indicates how the connection is rotated around the secondary part, relative to the current work plane. If there are no secondary parts, Xsteel rotates the connection around the primary part. The options are: +x, -x, +y, -y, +z, -z. The Picture tab in the dialog box shows the up direction Xsteel will use. Xsteel also indicates the up direction in the connection symbol:
Manually defining up direction
To manually define the up direction: 1. 2. 3. Double-click the connection symbol to open the connection dialog box. On the General tab, change the x, y, or z direction. Try positive directions first. Click Modify to use the new values.
Automatic and default properties

Some connection dialog boxes contain list boxes that show property options as graphics. You can select system defaults, AutoDefaults, or have Xsteel automatically set the properties.
System default properties
If you leave fields in connection dialog boxes blank, Xsteel uses the system default properties. Manual entries, default, automatic and properties in the joints.def file, all override these system defaults. You cannot change system default properties.
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Default and automatic properties
Icon
Desciption To have Xsteel use a default property in a connection, select the option marked with this symbol. If you use AutoDefaults for the connection, Xsteel uses the property defined in the AutoDefaults rules. If you are not using AutoDefaults, Xsteel creates the connection using the system default property. To have Xsteel automatically determine which option to use for a property, select the option marked with this symbol. Example, Boomerang bracing connection (60):
More information Using AutoDefaults (p. 32)
Use the Automatic option on the Gussetbolt1 tab to have Xsteel determine how the clip angle is connected to the gusset plate and beam.
1.2 Using connections

Introduction
This section explains how to use connections. It also includes an example.
Creating connections
When you create connections, Xsteel first prompts you to pick the primary part to which the secondary parts are connected, then the secondary part(s). For an example of using a connection, see Example (p. 14).
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Connection status
Xsteel uses different-colored connection symbols to show the status of connections, as shown below: Color Green Yellow Status Connection created successfully. Connection created, but has problems. Often occurs when bolts or holes have an edge distance less than the default value for that connection. A common reason is that the up direction of the connection is not appropriate. Tip
Red
Connection failed.
Example
When applying a connection that you are unfamiliar with, accept the default properties and apply the connection. Then look to see what needs to be modified. This is quicker than trying to set the values for the connection before seeing what the connection actually creates. This is an example of how to generate an end plate connection. The End plate (144) connection connects two beams, or a beam to a column, using a bolted end plate. To create the connection: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. On connection toolbar 1, double-click the End plate (144) icon Xsteel displays the connection dialog box. Click Apply to create the connection using the default properties. Xsteel prompts you to pick the main part (column) and then the secondary part (beam). Xsteel creates the connection. Double-click the connection symbol to open the connection properties dialog box. Adjust the connection properties to define what kind of an end plate connection you require. See also Modifying connections (p. 15). .
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If you use incorrect properties, Xsteel may fail to create the connection (see Creating connections (p. 13)).
Modifying connections
To modify a connection, double-click the connection symbol in the model. The connection dialog box appears. This is where you modify the connection properties. You can also indicate which connections are affected by the modifications:
Modify joint type: If you have selected several connections, clicking the Modify button modifies all the selected connections irrespective of
their type. If the connection type is not the same as in the dialog box, Xsteel changes the connection type.
Ignore other types: Xsteel only modifies connections of the type
shown in dialog box.
Tips on working with connections

No connection created Many parts found
If you have difficulty applying a connection, check the status bar for prompts. For example, you may need to click the middle mouse button to stop selecting parts, before Xsteel creates the connection. If you are applying a connection that only allows for one secondary member, you may see the message Many parts found on the status bar. This means that Xsteel cannot determine which parts to connect. You may have several parts in the same location, or the view may be set too deep.
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Switch parts on/ off
If the connection does not create the parts you need by default (for example, stiffener plates), look for a switch to turn them on. If there is no switch, try entering a value in the thickness field for that part (for example, on the Stiffeners tab). If the connection creates parts you do not need, look for the switch to turn them off. If there is no switch, enter a zero (0) in the thickness field for that part.
Default: Xsteel creates stiffeners. Automatic: Xsteel creates stiffeners.
Xsteel does not create stiffeners. Xsteel creates stiffeners.
Entering valid profiles
You need to specify profiles for some connections and macros. If a connection fails, try entering a valid profile.
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1.3 Defining parts and plates

Use the Parts tab to define the parts that Xsteel creates when you use a connection.
Using the dialog box

Some connections list all parts on one tab, others list parts on separate tabs as shown in the following examples.
One Parts tab
Where there is one tab, the label is usually Parts or Plates.
Several Parts tabs
Plates can also appear on separate tabs. For example, in connection 56, Corner tube gusset, the parts appear on both the Gusset and Tube diag tabs.
Dimensioning parts
Use the Parts tabs to dimension specific part types in connections. To delete a part, enter zero (0) in the t (thickness) field.
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Plates
Enter the following dimensions for plates: Dimension
t b h
Description Plate thickness Plate width Plate height
You do not have to enter these dimensions for every connection type, as Xsteel determines the plate shape differently for different connections. For example, in end plate connections, Xsteel calculates width and height using the number of bolts and bolt edge distances. Click Help in a connection dialog box to check which dimensions you need to enter.
Beams
To specify a library or parametric profile to use for beams: Enter the profile name. Or click , and select a profile from the profile catalog. The profile must exist in the profile catalog.
Part position number

Use the Pos_no field to enter the part position number for each part the connection creates. This overrides the settings on the Setup > Options > Preferences tab. Specify a prefix and a start number, as shown below.
Prefix Start number Some connection dialog boxes have a second row of Pos_no fields for you to enter the assembly position number.
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Using the Preferences tab

To set the default prefix and start number for all the parts that connections create, click Setup > Options > Preferences tab. You define different prefixes and start numbers according to the parts relationship to other parts in the connection. Separate the prefix and part number using the \ character (for example, p\1).
Prefix
Part number
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Defining materials
To define the materials for the parts that connections create, click against the Material field. Xsteel opens the Select material dialog box, click a material type, then click the material to use for the part.
Using the Preferences tab

To set the default part material for the parts that connections create, click Setup > Options > Preferences tab > Part material. Xsteel uses this default if you leave the Material field blank in the connection dialog box when you apply the connection.
1.4 Defining bolts and welds

Use the Bolts or Welds tabs to define which bolts, assemblies, and welds to use in specific connections.
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Using the Bolts tab

This illustration shows the properties you can set in the Bolts tab of connection dialog boxes: Slotted hole Yes to create slotdimensions ted hole in part
Position of bolt group: Vertical Horizontal
Check bolt components to include (bolt, washer, screw) Shank length protruding from the nut Bolt spacing vertical Number of bolts Enter bolt order number of bolt to delete
Bolt group pattern
Number of bolts Bolt spacing (horizontal)
Edge distance
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Defining bolts
Use the following fields on the Bolts tab to specify the type of bolts to use in individual connections: Dialog box text
Bolt size Bolt standard Tolerance Thread in mat
Description Must be defined in the bolt assembly catalog. See also The bolt and bolt assembly catalogs. The bolt standard to use inside the connection. Must be defined in the bolt assembly catalog. Gap between bolt and hole. Indicate if the thread can be inside bolted parts when using bolts with a shaft. Has no effect if using full-threaded bolts. Location where bolts should be attached.
Site/Workshop
Increasing bolt length

To allow for additional material thickness, increase the length of the bolt on the Bolts tab. For example, you could use this for painted parts. Enter extra bolt length
Xsteel uses this value in bolt length calculation. See Bolt length calculation in the online help.
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Creating holes
To only create a hole, deselect all the components on the illustration in the Bolts tab.
Number of bolts and spacing

Use the Bolts tab to specify the number of bolts and bolt spacing, both horizontally and vertically. Enter the number of bolts in the shorter field, and the spacing between bolts in the longer field, as shown below. Use a space to separate bolt spacing values. Enter a value for each space between bolts.
Example
For example, if there are 3 bolts, enter 2 values. Number of bolts Bolt spacing
The settings above result in this bolt group layout:
Bolt group orientation

Some connections include the following options on the Bolts tab to orientate bolt groups: Option Description Square.
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Option
Description Staggered in the direction of the secondary part.
Sloped in the direction of the secondary part.
Bolt group pattern

For some connections you can select different bolt group patterns. You have the following options: Option
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Edge distance
Edge distance is the distance from the center of a bolt to the edge of the part. Enter top, bottom, left, and right edge distances on the Bolts tab. A dimension line on the illustration shows each dimension. Edge distance dimension line
Enter edge distances here
Bolt position
In the list box on the Bolts tab, select an option to indicate how to measure dimensions for vertical and horizontal bolt position. Then enter the dimension in the fields indicated below. If you leave this field blank, Xsteel uses a system default value. Enter dimensions
Measure dimension from....
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Vertical bolt position

Use these options to indicate how Xsteel measures vertical dimensions: Option
Top
Dimension from Upper edge of secondary part to uppermost bolt.
Illustration
Middle
Centerline of bolts to centerline of secondary part.
Bottom
Lower edge of secondary part to lowest bolt.
Horizontal bolt position

Use these options to indicate how Xsteel measures horizontal dimensions: Option
Left
Dimension from Left edge of secondary part to far left bolt.
Illustration
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Option
Middle
Dimension from Centerline of bolts.
Illustration
Right
Right edge of secondary part to far right bolt.
Defining slotted holes

To define slotted holes in connections: 1. 2. 3. Open the connection properties dialog box and click on the Bolts tab. Different bolt groups may appear on different tabs in different dialog boxes. Select which parts have slotted holes from the Slots in list box. Select No to create round holes. To shape slotted holes, enter the x or y dimensions of the hole. To produce a round hole, enter zero (0) for both dimensions.
Slotted hole length = x or y dimension + Bolt size +

Tolerance
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For some connections you can specify which parts have slotted holes using the Bolts tab. For example, Clip angle (141), Shear plate simple (146). You can also use the Bolt command to modify bolt groups after creating connections.
Deleting bolts
To delete bolts from a bolt group: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Example
Double click the connection symbol to open the connection dialog box. Go to the Bolts tab. Check Delete. Enter the bolt number(s) of the bolt(s) to delete, separated by a space. Bolt numbers run left to right and top down. Click Modify to change the selected connection. Click OK to exit the connection dialog box.
You start with this bolt group: 1 3 5 2 4 6
You enter the following bolt numbers:
The bolt group now looks like this:
2 5
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Defining bolt assemblies

On the illustration on the Bolts tab, check the components to use in the bolt assembly (bolt, washers, and nuts).
To change the bolt assemblies in the current connection: 1. 2. 3. 4. Click the connection symbol to select it. Check the components to use. Check Effect in modify. Click the Modify button.
Welds
To define the properties of the welds Xsteel uses in a connection, click the Welds button in the connection properties dialog box. Xsteel displays the appropriate weld dialog box. The illustration identifies each weld using a number. For each weld, use row 1 to define the arrow side of the weld, and row 2 for the other side.
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See also
Welds in the online help.
1.5 AutoConnection
Introduction
Use AutoConnection to automatically select and apply connections with predefined properties to selected parts. Use AutoConnection to have Xsteel automatically create similar connections for similar framing conditions.
Using AutoConnection
Use AutoConnection to have Xsteel automatically create connections using a predefined set of rules, or rule group.
Creating connections
To create connections using AutoConnection: 1. 2. 3. Pick the parts to connect. Click Detailing > AutoConnection... to display the AutoConnection dialog box. Select a rule group in the first list box on the Rule groups tab as shown below.
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Rule group for AutoConnection Rule group for AutoDefaults
4.
Click the Create connections button.
When you use AutoConnection, Xsteel ignores the properties in the connection dialog boxes and creates connections using the properties defined in the rule group. Xsteel does not modify existing connections. You can change the properties of connections you create using AutoConnection.
Additional options
Use the options on the Advanced tab to indicate which rule groups you want to use for each Framing condition (beam to beam web, beam to beam flange, etc.). You also have the option not to apply a rule group, or to apply a specific connection.
Example
You can use a rule group for all framing types other than beam to column flange, and indicate a particular connection to use for that framing type.
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Options
Use Connection selection to indicate your preferences for each framing condition. You have the following options: Option
None AutoConnection
Result Xsteel does not create a connection. Xsteel applies the connection defined in the rule group you have indicated in the first list box on the Rule groups tab. Click Select to pick from a list of available connections. Click a connection, then OK. Xsteel creates the connection you specify using the default properties. See Automatic and default properties (p. 12).
A named connection
Use Parameters selection to indicate which connection properties you want to use. The options are: Option AutoDefaults Result Xsteel applies the properties of the rule group you have indicated in the first list box on Rule groups tab. Xsteel applies the default connection properties. See Automatic and default properties (p. 12).
No AutoDefaults
1.6 AutoDefaults
Introduction
Use AutoDefaults to automatically apply connections. When you use AutoDefaults, Xsteel automatically creates connections with predefined properties. For example, you can use AutoDefaults to automatically adjust the thickness of each base plate you create, according to the primary part profile. If the primary part profile changes, Xsteel will also automatically adjust the thickness of the base plate.
Using AutoDefaults
With AutoDefaults you can have Xsteel apply connection properties using a predefined set of rules. You can use AutoDefaults together with AutoConnection to define connection properties, or separately to define the properties of a single connection.
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To use AutoDefaults for a single connection: 1. 2. 3. Open the connection dialog box. On the General tab, select a rule group (the rule group cannot be None). On all the tabs, set the fields that you want AutoDefaults to override to
Default by selecting the options marked with the arrow symbol
).
4.
Click Apply to create the connection using AutoDefaults. To quickly set all the fields in a dialog box to Default, load <Defaults> in the connection dialog box.
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How to use AutoDefaults effectively

Use default values when you create a connection, then use AutoDefaults to modify the properties. If you manually modify connection properties after using AutoDefaults, Xsteel will not automatically update the connection properties, even if AutoDefaults is active. AutoDefaults does not change connection properties that have been modified. It only modifies connection properties in fields containing the default properties. For example, you have manually set a base plate thickness of 20 mm in the Base plate dialog box of a connection. AutoDefaults is active and sets plate thickness according to the primary part profile. If you modify the primary part profile, Xsteel does not update the base plate thickness. It remains at 20 mm.
Checking AutoDefaults properties

To check the properties AutoDefaults has applied to a connection: 1. 2. 3. Double-click the connection symbol to open the connection dialog box. In the list box in the upper left corner of the dialog box, select <AutoDefaults>.
Click Load. Xsteel shows the applied properties in the fields. You can also see all the combined properties used for that connection.
Checking AutoDefaults rules

You can check which rules AutoDefaults has used for a particular connection. 1. 2. Select the connection symbol and right-click. Select Inquire.
Xsteel shows the rule group and rule sets that the connection passed. You can also see all the properties files used for that connection.
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Steel Connection Properties

Once you have created a frame of parts in your Xsteel model, you will need to connect those parts to complete the model. This chapter explains the properties that are common to many different Xsteel connections and details.
Introduction
Contents
This chapter is divided into the following topics: Notch (p. 35) Haunch (p. 42) Stiffeners (p. 44) Beam cut (p. 48) Doubler plate (p. 51) Angle box (p. 53)
2.1 Notch
Use the options on the Notch tab to automatically create notches for the secondary beam, and control the notch properties. The Notch tab has two sections: automatic properties (top section) manual properties (bottom section).
Automatic and manual properties work independently of each other.
XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Steel Connection Properties
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Automatic notching
To switch on automatic notching, select an option in the notch shape list box. The fields on the Notch tab are: Field Description Notch shape. Turns automatic notching on and off. Notch size. Flange cut shape. More information Notch shape (p. 37)
Notch size (p. 38) Flange cut shape (p. 38) Notch dimension rounding (p. 39) Notch position (p. 40) Notch chamfer (p. 41)
Notch dimension rounding. Notch position.
Notch chamfer.
Automatic notching options affect both the top and bottom flange.
Manual notching
Use manual notching when a part that does not belong to the connection clashes with the secondary part. When you use manual notching, connections create cuts using the values you enter in the fields on the Notch tab. You can use different values for the top and bottom flange. Use the following fields to define manual notches: Field Description Side of flange notch. More information Side of flange notch (p. 41) Flange notch shape (p. 42)
Flange notch shape.
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Field A B
Description The cut dimensions of the top and bottom flange in the dx and dy direction. Enter values for options in the flange notch shape list box, if possible. The gap between the notch edge and the primary beam flange is equal to the primary web rounding. The notch height is then rounded up to the nearest 5 mm. Flange notch depth dimension.
B A
Notch shape
Use the following options to define how Xsteel notches the secondary beam: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Notches the secondary beam with the cuts square to the main beam web. Notches the secondary beam with the cuts square to the secondary beam. Notches the secondary beam with the dy cut square to the main beam, and the dx cut square to the secondary beam. Turns off automatic notching. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
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Notch size
Use the following options to define notch size. Field Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Xsteel measures the notch size from the edge of the main beam flange, and from underneath the top flange of the main beam. Xsteel measures the notch size from the centerline of the main beam and from the top flange of the main beam. Enter the horizontal and vertical dimensions for these options in the fields shown below: More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Flange cut shape

Use these options to define the shape of flange cut. Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Cuts the secondary beam flange parallel to the main beam. Cuts the secondary beam flange square. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
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Notch dimension rounding

Use these options to indicate if Xsteel should round up notch dimensions. Even if this setting is active, Xsteel only rounds up dimensions when necessary. Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Xsteel does not round notch dimensions. Switches on notch dimension rounding. Xsteel rounds up the dimension to the nearest multiple of the value you enter. For example, if the actual dimension is 51 and you enter a round-up value of 10, Xsteel rounds the dimension up to 60. Enter the increment for horizontal and vertical dimension rounding in the following fields: More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
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Example
This example shows the effect of using rounding: Before: Xsteel applies these horizontal and vertical rounding values:
After:
Notch position
Use the following options to indicate the horizontal position of the cut: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Cut below the flange. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Cut above the flange.
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Notch chamfer
Use the following options to define notch chamfering: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Does not chamfer the notch. Creates the notch with a line chamfer. Chamfers the notch. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Enter a radius for the chamfer in the field shown below:
Side of flange notch

Use the following options to indicate which side of the beam flange Xsteel notches: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Notches both sides of the flange. Notches the near side of the flange. Notches the far side of the flange. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
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Flange notch shape

Use the following options to indicate the notch shape in the beam flange. Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Xsteel removes the entire flange of the secondary as far back as you specify. The default depth for the notch is twice the thickness of the secondary flange. The cut always runs the entire width of the secondary flange. Chamfers the flange. If you do not enter a horizontal dimension, Xsteel creates a chamfer of 45 degrees. Cuts the flange with default values unless you enter values in fields A and B. Does not cut the flange. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Manual notching (p. 36)
Manual notching (p. 36)
Cuts the flange according to the value in field A to make it flush with the web. Cuts the flange according to the values in fields A and B.
Manual notching (p. 36) Manual notching (p. 36)
2.2 Haunch
You can use several options to define haunch plates. The Haunch tab has two sections that control the following: Creating haunch plates Haunch plate chamfer.
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Creating haunch plates

Use the Create plate field to define when Xsteel should create haunch plates. The options are: Option Default Auto Description Same as the Auto option. When a clip angle crosses the secondary beam flange(s), Xsteel automatically creates top or bottom haunch plates, or both, as needed. Always creates top and bottom haunch plates. To create a single plate, enter zero in the thickness (t) field for the plate you do not need (top or bottom plate). More information
Yes
No
Does not create haunch plates.
Enter values in the following fields, for the top and bottom plates, if needed:
t - thickness b - width h - height Pos_no - Part position number. Enter the part prefix in the first field, the part
number in the second field.

Material - Click ... to select a material from a material catalog Name - The part name, for example TOP_PLATE
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Haunch plate chamfer

To define haunch plate line chamfer properties, enter horizontal and vertical dimensions for the top and bottom plates, as indicated below:
Top plate line chamfer Vertical dimensions Horizontal dimensions
Bottom plate line chamfer
2.3 Stiffeners
Use the following fields to define stiffeners. (These fields do not appear in the dialog box of every connection that creates stiffeners): Field Description Creates stiffeners. More information Creating stiffeners (p. 45) Stiffener type (p. 45)
Select chamfered or square stiffeners. Stiffener size.
Stiffener orientation.
Stiffener orientation (p. 46) Stiffener position (p. 47)
Stiffener position.
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Field
Description Stiffener chamfer.
More information
Gap between stiffener and the bottom flange of beam.
Creating stiffeners
Use the following options to define when Xsteel creates stiffeners: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. The Automatic option. Xsteel creates stiffeners when necessary. Xsteel does not create stiffeners. Xsteel creates stiffeners. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Stiffener type
You can use several options to define stiffener type. The Stiffeners tab may contain two types of options, to define:
Chamfered or square
Whether the stiffeners are chamfered or square Stiffener size.
Use the following options to create chamfered or square stiffeners:
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Option
Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Creates line chamfers.
More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Creates square stiffener plates leaving a gap for the primary web rounding. Creates line chamfers.
Stiffener size
Use the following options for stiffener size: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Creates a full stiffener of the same height as the web of the main part. Xsteel determines the size based on the size of the shear plate. Xsteel attempts to keep the bottom edges of the stiffener plate and shear plate level, if possible. Leaves a gap between the stiffener plate and the bottom flange of the main part bottom. Does not create stiffeners. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Stiffener orientation
Use the following options to define stiffener orientation:
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Option
Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Creates stiffeners in the direction of the secondary part. Creates stiffeners perpendicular to the main part.
More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Stiffener position
Enter the following dimensions to define the position of the stiffener:
A B B
A - The gap between the main part web and the stiffener plate. B - The vertical location of the near side or far side stiffener. Enter positive or negative dimensions to move the stiffener.
By default, Xsteel positions the edges of the stiffener level with the flanges of the secondary part.
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2.4 Beam cut

Use the options on the Beam cut tab to define rat holes, flange cuts, and end preparation for beams. You can use different values for top and bottom flanges. The Beam cut tab contains the following fields: Field Description Rat hole. More information Rat holes (p. 49)
Flange cut.
Flange cut (p. 49)
End preparation.
End preparation (p. 50)
Field
A C
Description
A: The vertical dimension of the top and bottom rat hole. B: Gap between the web of the secondary part and the main part. Xsteel adds the value you enter here to the gap you enter on the Picture tab. C: The horizontal dimension of the top and bottom rat hole. D: Gap between the secondary part flange and the main part. Xsteel adds the value you enter here to the gap you enter on the Picture tab.
C A D
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Rat holes
These options control rat hole settings. Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Creates a round rat hole. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Creates a square rat hole.
Creates a rat hole with a line cut. Creates a round rat hole with a radius that you specify in this field:
. Creates a cone-shaped rat hole with a radius that you specify in this field:
Flange cut
Use the following options to define flange cuts: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
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Option
Description Does not cut the flange.
More information
Cuts the flange.
End preparation
Use the following options to define end preparation: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. The Automatic option. Prepares both top and bottom flange. Does not prepare the beam end. Prepares both top and bottom flange. Prepares the top flange. More information Automatic and default properties (p. 12)
Prepares the bottom flange.
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2.5 Doubler plate

Doubler plates are used to strengthen the web of the main part. Xsteel does not create them by default. Use the following fields to create and define doubler plates: Field Description Creates doubler plates. More information Creating doubler plates (p. 52) Doubler plate edge shape (p. 52)
Defines the shape of the edge of the doubler plate.
General settings
Use the following fields to determine the location of the doubler plate in the web, and control plug weld hole settings.
A A: Edge distance from the
face of the column flange.

B: Plug weld hole location E B C B D
from the edge of the doubler plate.

C: Number of holes. D: Hole spacing. E: Top edge of doubler plate
in relation to the top of the secondary part.
B C D
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Plug weld hole size

Enter the following dimensions to define the size of plug weld holes: Hole diameter. Slot length. Slot width.
Creating doubler plates

Use the following options to define if Xsteel creates doubler plates and where they are located: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. By default, Xsteel does not create doubler plates. Does not create doubler plates. Creates a doubler plate to the near side. Creates a doubler plate to the far side. Creates doubler plates to both sides of the web. More information
Doubler plate edge shape

Use the following options to define the shape of the edge of the doubler plate:
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Field
Description AutoDefaults can change this option.
More information
Creates a bevelled plate.Enter the angle of the bevel in this field:
Creates a square plate.
2.6 Angle box

The purpose of seat angles is to carry loads from the secondary part. Only the Angle profile box (170) connection and Angle profile box (1040) detail create seat angles by default. Seat angles can be located to the top, bottom or both flanges of the secondary part. The seat angle can be stiffened, and bolted or welded to the main and secondary parts. Use the following fields to create seat angles and define their properties: Field Description Seat angle position. More information Seat angle position (p. 54) Seat angle orientation (p. 55) Seat angle rotation (p. 55) Seat angle attachment (p. 56)
Seat angle orientation.
Seat angle rotation.
Seat angle attachment.
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Field
Description Stiffener type.
More information Seat angle stiffener type (p. 56)
Stiffener chamfer type. Bottom plate chamfer. Notching.
Middle stiffener position. End stiffener position.
Seat angle position

Use the following options to define the position of seat angles: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. More information
Does not create seat angles.
Creates a seat angle on the top flange. Creates a seat angle under the bottom flange. Creates a seat angle to both the top and the bottom flange.
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Seat angle orientation

Use the following options to define if the longer leg of the angle profile connects to the main or the secondary part: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Connects the longer leg of the angle profile to the secondary part. Connects the longer leg of the angle profile to the main part. Connects the longer leg of the angle profile to the part where bolts reach further from the angle corner. More information
Seat angle rotation

Use the following options to define seat angle rotation. The Angle profile box (170) connection also includes an option to use a plate as the seat instead of the angle profile: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Does not rotate the angle profile. Rotates the angle profile horizontally 90 degrees. To stiffen the rotated angle, select the Middle option in the Middle stiffener position list box. Uses a bottom plate as the seat instead of the angle profile.
More information
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Seat angle attachment

Use the following options to define how the angle profile is attached to the main and secondary parts: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Bolts the angle profile to both the main and secondary parts. Welds the angle profile to the main part and bolts it to the secondary. Bolts the angle profile to the main part and welds it to the secondary. Welds the angle profile to both the main and the secondary parts. More information
Seat angle stiffener type

Use the following options to define the seat angle stiffener: Option Description AutoDefaults can change this option. Creates a rectangular stiffener plate. Creates a triangular stiffener plate. The line connecting the ends of the angle profile legs determines the stiffener plate shape. More information
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Custom elements
Introduction
Xsteel contains a set of tools for defining intelligent connections and details, called custom elements. These tools are easy to use and require no programming skills. You can create your own connections and details, similar to Xsteel standard connections. Xsteel creates a dialog box for the custom element, which you can easily customize, if required. You can then use custom elements in the same way as any standard Xsteel connection or detail.
You can also edit custom elements to create parametric custom elements that automatically adjust to changes in the model.
Audience
This chapter is aimed at people who know how to use Xsteel connections and details.
XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Custom elements
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Contents
This chapter includes the following topics, which are the steps you follow to create custom elements: Defining custom elements (p. 58) Editing custom elements (p. 64) Defining variables (p. 67) Managing and using custom elements (p. 78) Custom elements reference (p. 87)
3.1 Defining custom elements

Introduction
You can build custom elements either by exploding and modifying an existing connection, or by creating the connection objects individually. You then define a custom element by picking the objects to include in the custom element, and specifying the information the user needs to input, for example, main part, secondary parts, or points they need to pick. You can now apply the custom element in similar locations in the model to where it was originally created. To create a parametric custom element, you need to do some more editing. For more information, see Editing custom elements (p. 64). Use the New custom element dialog box to define the properties of a new custom element. To browse a list of custom elements, double-click the Create custom element icon on a connection toolbar .
Exploding connections
Explode connection is very useful command to use when defining custom ele-
ments. It ungroups the objects in an existing connection, you can then remove and modify parts and other objects in the connection. To explode a connection: 1. 2. 3. Click Detailing > Explode connection. Select the connection to explode. Xsteel ungroups the objects in the connection.
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Defining a custom element

You can define and save custom elements in the connection library. Before you can define a custom element, you need to create a sample custom element in the model containing all the necessary connection objects, such as parts, fittings, bolts, etc. To quickly create a custom element, explode a similar existing connection, then change it to suit your needs.
Follow the steps in the custom element wizard. Some steps are different for different types of custom element.
Example
In the following example we will create a custom element based on an existing end plate connection. 1. Click Detailing > Define custom element to open the following dialog box.
2. 3. 4.
On the Type/Notes tab, set Type to Connection. Enter a Name for the custom element. On the Position and Advanced tabs, set the Position type and other properties for the custom element. Click Next.
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5.
Select the objects to use in the custom element and click Next.
You can use area select to select the objects to include. Xsteel ignores the main part, secondary parts, grids and connection symbols when you are selecting objects to include in the custom element.
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6.
Select the main part and click Next.
7.
Select the secondary part(s). To pick several secondary part(s), hold down the Shift key while you pick the parts. Pay attention to the order in which you pick secondary parts. The custom element will use the same picking order when you use it in a model.
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8.
Click Finish.
9.
Xsteel displays a connection symbol for the new connection.
You have now defined a simple custom element, which you can use in similar locations to where it was originally created. This element is not parametric and Xsteel does not adjust dimensions to suit any changes in the model. To create a parametric custom element, see Editing custom elements (p. 64).
Custom element basic properties

Xsteel automatically creates each custom element with a set of basic properties, which we describe in this section. To view the properties of a custom element: 1. 2.
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Double-click the Create custom element icon tom elements dialog box.
. Xsteel displays the Cus-
Select the custom element from the Custom elements list.
3.
Basic properties
Right-click the custom element and select Properties... from the pop-up menu.
All custom elements have the following basic properties: Field

Up direction Definition axis position Class
Description Rotates the connection. Defines the location of element axis. The class of the parts that the custom element creates. Identifies the connection. Xsteel can display this connection code in connection marks in drawings. The rule group used for setting the connection properties. The rule group Xsteel uses to select the connection.
More information Up direction (p. 12)
Part properties in the Modeling Manual Mark contents in the Drawing Manual
Connection code
AutoDefaults rule group AutoConnection rule group
Using AutoDefaults (p. 32) Using AutoConnection (p. 30)
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3.2 Editing custom elements

Introduction
To make a simple custom element parametric, so that it adapts to changes in the model, you must edit it in the Custom element editor. Here you can build dependencies between element objects and model objects. For example, you could specify that the size of a stiffener depends on the size of the beam. So, if you change the size of the beam, the size of the stiffener also changes. You can also add distance variables, for example to specify the gap between a plate and a beam.
Custom element editor

Use the custom element editor to modify custom elements and create intelligent, parametric custom elements. First, create a custom element in the model.
Opening the editor
To open the custom element editor: 1. 2. Check that the select switch ment. is active, and then select the custom ele-
Click Detailing > Edit custom element.... The Custom element editor opens. It shows the Custom element editor toolbar, the Model browser and four views of the custom element.
Custom element toolbar
The toolbar contains the following icons: Creates a distance Plane types Shows all created variables Saves and updates the existing element(s) in the model Closes the editor Creates dis- Displays Creates user-defined tances auto- Model Browser matically plane Saves the custom element with another name
You can add and edit many custom element properties:
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Editing task Create fields for material grade, profile, bolt size, and other properties that will be visible in the custom element dialog box. Define part dimensions, spacings, gaps, etc. that will be visible in the custom element dialog box. Bind element objects to model objects so that element objects adjust for new beam size or profile. Create formulas to calculate values, for example for calculating bolt edge distance using bolt size.
Library element vs. model element
More information Creating parameter variables (p. 71)
Creating distance variables (p. 69) Creating distance variables (p. 69)
Creating parameters that use formulae (p. 72)
Use the custom element editor to modify custom element. You can open a custom element in the editor even if you have already used it in a model. When you have edited the custom element, you can choose to apply the changes to all copies of the custom element, or only to the library copy of the element. To apply your changes to the library and to all copies of the custom element in the model, use the Save command. To only save the changes to the copy of the custom element in the library, use the Save as command. Xsteel does not apply the changes to the other copies of the custom element in the model.
Closing the editor
To close the custom element editor: 1. 2. Click the Close icon Xsteel asks if you want to save the custom element with its original name. If you click Yes, Xsteel will overwrite the copies of the custom element in the library and the model.
See also Model browser (p. 66)
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Model browser
The model browser shows the contents of a custom element in a hierarchical, tree-like structure. The model browser works with Custom element editor views. Click a part in the view and Xsteel highlights it in the browser. Or click a part in the browser to have Xsteel highlight it in the view. The model browser contains the following information about a custom element:
Model objects, to which custom element is attached. The objects the custom element creates.
You can create links between custom element variables and connection object properties.
You can create links between custom element parameter variables and connection object properties. For example, variable "m" defines the material grade for all plates in your connection. It appears as "Material = m" in the model browser (see above illustration). "m" is also a field in the custom element dialog box. When a user enters a value in the "m" field in the dialog box for plates, Xsteel saves the value to the part properties in the model.
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Popup menu
You can also use the popup menu in the model browser to copy names, values, and references from primary and secondary parts in the connection. Then use them in the Variables dialog box to define the properties of custom elements.
Copies just the value the object currently has. Copies the link to the property. Link is dynamic, so when the property later changes the reference reflects the change.
See also
Creating parameter variables (p. 71) Creating parameters that use formulae (p. 72)
3.3 Defining variables

Variables are the properties of a custom element. Some of them appear in the custom element dialog box, others are hidden and are only used in calculations. There are two types of variable: Variable type
Distance
Description Distance between two planes or between point and plane. Binds parts together. All other properties, including name, material grade, bolt size, etc. Also used in calculations.
See also Creating distance variables (p. 69) Creating parameter variables (p. 71) Creating parameters that use formulae (p. 72)
Parameter
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Viewing variables
To see all distance and parameter variables in a connection, in the custom element editor, click the Display variables icon
The Variables dialog box appears:
When you select a distance variable from a list, Xsteel highlights it in the model. To delete the selected distance or parameter, click Delete. To add a new parameter variable, click Add. The bolt size and bolt standard parameters work together, so Xsteel creates both automatically.
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Creating distance variables

Use distance variables to bind handles, fittings, cuts, etc. to planes, so that the custom element can adapt to different situations, such as different main profile shapes and sizes. You can create a distance variable from point to plane or from plane to plane. These distances can be visible or hidden. Use visible distances when you want the user to enter a distance value in the custom element dialog box. To simply bind objects to planes, use hidden distances. Use the automatic distances command to automatically create distances for picked objects:
How
In this example we will create a distance variable that binds the upper edge of the end plate to the upper flange of the secondary part. Whenever you create this custom element in the model, the end plate will follow the upper flange, regardless of the profile or size the secondary part. To create the distance variable: 1. Select the object from which to measure the distance. This object will follow the plane to which you bind it. In this example, select the plates topmost reference point (magenta or yellow) Click the Create plane-point distance icon .
2. 3.
Move the mouse cursor over a view to see the available planes. Highlighted boundary plane
You can change plane types before selecting the plane.
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You can also use the Hide command if the plane is not accessible.
4.
To create the distance, click when the plane you want to use is highlighted. Xsteel draws a distance symbol in the views of the custom element editor. Xsteel displays a distance symbol in the custom element editor views. You can bind one object to a maximum of three planes. To end the command, right-click and select Interrupt. Distance object
5.
6.
Double-click the distance object. The Distance properties dialog box appears.
7.
Enter a descriptive Name for the distance. To test the distance variable, enter different values and click Modify to see the changes in the model.
8.
Click Cancel.
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9.
To hide or show the distance variable in the dialog box and to set the other properties, click to open the Variables dialog box. .
Limitations
You cannot pick points in secondary or primary parts
Creating parameter variables

You can use parameter variables to set basic properties for objects that custom element creates, for example, name, material, profile, position number, etc.
Example
In this example we create a parameter variable "Weldsize" that sets all welds in a custom element to a given size: 1. 2. 3. On the Custom elemen editor toolbar, click box. Click the Add button. Enter following information: 4. 5.
Variable name = Weldsize Formula = Variable value = 0.0 Variable type = parameter Value type = length Visibility = TRUE (this makes Weldsize visible in the dialog box) Label = WeldSize
to open the Variables dialog
Click OK button to close the dialog box. In the Model browser, click Child objects > Weld > Object properties and click Size twice. Type in "= WeldSize". Repeat this step for all welds.
6. 7.
Click Save. Click Close icon to exit the Custom element editor.
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Your custom element dialog box should now contain the field WeldSize. When anyone creates the element, all welds are of the size you enter in the Weldsize field.
Creating parameters that use formulae

This example shows how to create a hidden parameter variable that includes a formula to set weld size to half the thickness of the secondary part flange. This variable will not be visible in the custom element dialog box. When you create the element, Xsteel uses the thickness of the secondary part flange to calculate the size of the weld(s). 1. In the Model browser, click Input Objects > Secondary parts > Part > Profile and right-click Flange thickness 1 and then select Copy reference. Xsteel copies the reference to secondary part flange thickness to the Windows Clipboard.
2. 3. 4.
In the Custom element editor toolbar, click box. Click Add button. Set Variable name to w.
to open the Variables dialog
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5.
Click the Formula field, type =, then right-click and select Paste. Xsteel pastes the reference to flange thickness from the Clipboard. Now enter *0.5. Formula should now read =fP(Flange thickness 1.1525)*0.5.
6.
Set other values

Variable type = user parameter Value type = length Visibility = FALSE
7. 8.
In the Model browser, click Connection Objects > Weld > Object properties and click Size twice. Type in "= w". Click OK button to close the dialog box.
Functions to use in formulae

This section lists all the functions you can use in formulae in custom elements. Formulae always begin with the equals character (=). You can use the following functions in formulae:
Reference function
A reference function refers to the property of another object, such as the plate thickness of a secondary part. Xsteel refers to the object on the system level, so if the object property changes, so does the reference function value. fP(propertyname, ObjectId) To ensure the function includes the correct parameters, cut and paste it from the model browser: 1. 2. Right-click the property in the model browser and select Copy reference. Right-click the Formula cell in the Variables dialog box and select Paste.
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Arithmetic operators
You can also use the following arithmetic operators: Operator + * Description addition subtraction multiplication Multiplication is faster than division, so it is faster to use =D1*0.5 rather than =D1/2. / division Notes Use also to create strings of parameters.
Logical statement
You can use if-then-else statements to test a condition and set the value according to the result: =if (D1>200) then 20 else 10 endif You can also use the operators && (the logical AND operator) and || (the logical OR operator) inside the if statement. && - both conditions must be true || only one condition must be true
For example to use a value 6: =if (D1==200 && D2<40) then 6 else 0 endif D1 must be 200 and D2 must be less than 40. =if (D1==200 || D2<40) then 6 else 0 endif D1 must equal 200, or D2 must be less than 40.
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Mathematical functions
The mathematical functions are: Name fabs(parameter) Description Returns the absolute value of the specified parameter. Returns e raised to the specified power. Natural logarithm of the specified parameter (base number neper). Returns the logarithm of the specified parameter (base number 10). Returns the square root of the specified parameter. Modulo Example fabs(D1) returns 15 if D1 = -15 exp(D1) returns 7.39 if D1=2 ln(P2) returns 2.71 if P2=15 log(D1) returns 2 if D1=100 sqrt(D1) returns 4 if D1=16 mod(D1, 5) returns 1 if D1=16 Returns base number raised to the specified power. hypotenuse side2 n!() Factorial n!(4) returns 24 (=1*2*3*4) round(parameter, accuracy) Round off according to given accuracy. round(P1, 0.1) returns 10.600 if P1=10.567 pow(D1, D2) returns 9 if D1=3 D2=2 hypot(D1, D2) returns 5 side1 if D1=3 D2=4
exp(power)
ln(parameter)
log(parameter)
sqrt(parameter)
mod(dividend, divider) pow(base number, power) hypot(side1,side2)
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Statistical functions
The statistical functions are. Name ceil() Description Example (P1=1.4 P2=2.3)
Returns the smallest whole num- ceil(P1) returns 2 ber greater than or equal to the specified parameter. Returns the largest whole number less than or equal to the specified parameter. Returns the smallest of specified parameters. Returns the largest of specified parameters. Sum of specified parameters Sum of squared parameters: (parameter1)2 + (parameter2)2 Average of parameters Average of squared parameters. floor(P1) returns 1
floor()
min() max() sum() sqsum() ave() sqave()
min(P1, P2) returns 1.4 max(P1, P2) returns 2.3 sum(P1, P2) returns 3.7 sqsum(P1, P2) returns 7.25 ave(P1, P2) returns 1.85 sqave(P1, P2) returns 3.625
Data type conversions

Conversion functions perform conversions between the three supported data types, integers, doubles and strings. Name int() Description Conversion to integer. This is useful especially for calculating profile dimensions: 100.0132222000 -> 100 Converts data to a double Converts data to string
double() string()
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String operations
Include string parameters inside double quotation marks within the argument list of string operations. Name match(parameter1 , parameter2) length(parameter) Description Returns 1 if parameters are equal and 0 if different. Returns the number of characters in the parameter. Returns the order number (starting at zero) of the specified string and -1 if the specified string is not found from the parameter. Returns the n:th (starting at zero) character from the parameter. Sets the n:th (starting at zero) character to the specified character in the parameter. Example (P1="PL100*10") match(P1, "PL100*10") returns 1 length(P1) returns 8
find(parameter, string)
find(P1, "*") returns 5
getat(parameter, n) setat(parameter, n, character)
getat(P1, 1) returns L
setat(P1, 0, "B") returns BL100*10
When you handle strings in formulas, you must use quotation marks. For example, to define profile size PL100*10 with two variables P2=100 and P3=10 enter the formula as follows: ="PL"+P2+"*"+P3 Xsteel handles bolt spacings as strings. To define bolt spacing, select variable type to distance list and enter the formula like this: =P1+" "+P2 This results in 100 200, if P1=100 (length) and P2=200 (length).
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Trigonometric functions
You can include trigonometric functions in the formulae. Be sure to include the unit using the following prefixes. If you do not include a prefix, Xsteel uses radians as the default unit: d is degree. For example sin (d180) r is radians (Default). For example sin (r3.14) or sin (3.14) Name sin() cos() tan() asin() acos() atan() sinh() cosh() tanh() atan2(,) Description Sine Cosine Tangent Inverse function of sin(), return value in radians Inverse function of cos(), return value in radians Inverse function of tan(), return value in radians Hyperbolical sine Hyperbolical cosine Hyperbolical tangent Returns the angle whose tangent is the quotient of two specified numbers. Return value in radians
3.4 Managing and using custom elements

This section describes the custom element dialog box and explains how to use and manage custom elements.
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Custom element dialog box

Xsteel automatically creates a dialog box when you define a custom element. By default the dialog box has a General tab. Xsteel automatically creates tabs containing the parameters and distances you set to visible in the custom element editor. Tabs are named Parameter 1, Parameter 2, etc. Each tab can contain up to 25 fields. If you have more than 25 visible fields, Xsteel creates another tab. A typical custom element dialog box looks like this:
Xsteel creates an input file with the extension .inp for each dialog box in the model folder. You can modify the input file. If you modify the input file, then edit and save the custom element dialog box using the custom element editor, you will lose the changes you made to the input file.
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Customizing the dialog box

To customize the dialog box that Xsteel creates for the custom element you need to modify the input file which defines the dialog box. The input file has the same name as the custom element and file extension inp. It is located in the model folder. This topic is for advanced users. Take care when modifying an input file. Errors may cause the dialog box to disappear.
The input file is a text file that you can edit using any text editor, for example Notepad. You can customize the dialog box by Changing the order of fields (p. 81) Changing the location of fields (p. 82) Renaming tabs (p. 83) Adding more tabs (p. 84) Adding pictures (p. 85) To use the modified custom element dialog box, save the input file, then close and restart Xsteel.
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Changing the order of fields

To change the order of fields, in the input file, change the last number in the parameter definition, as shown below:
Change these numbers to change the order of fields (listed from to bottom of dialog box)
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Changing the location of fields

To change the location of fields, in the input file, change the last number in the parameter definition. Enter three numbers to define the exact location of the field in the dialog box: the x coordinate, y coordinate, and length of field. The example below shows these values for the second field in the dialog box:
y = 25 x = 374 length = 160
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Renaming tabs
To rename a tab, change the tab definition in the input file. You can rename any tab except the General tab. In the example below, you would change the text Parameters 1 to the new tab name (for example, Parts):
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Adding more tabs

Each tab can contain 25 fields. If there are more than 25 visible fields, Xsteel creates another tab. You can also add tabs by modifying the input file. To add a second tab, edit the input file as shown below. Remember to adjust the location of the fields, if necessary
Remember to adjust the field location.
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Adding pictures
Add images to make your custom element easier to use. First create the image and save it as a bitmap file (file extension bmp)in the C:\Xsteel\9.0\nt\bitmaps folder. To add the image to the custom element dialog box, edit the input file as shown below:
y = 100
x = 50
height = 75
width = 100
The first pixel in the top left corner of a bitmap must be the same color (gray) as the background of the dialog box.
Using a custom element

To use a custom element in a model: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Double-click the Create custom element icon tom elements dialog box. .Xsteel displays the Cus-
Select the custom element from the Custom elements list. Right-click the custom element and select Properties... from the pop-up menu. Enter the properties you want to use and click Apply. Xsteel prompts you to pick the parts and/or points required to create the connection.
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Managing custom elements

To manage custom elements, on a connections toolbar, double-click the Create
custom element icon
. The Custom elements dialog box opens:
To view the custom elements properties, rightclick its name and click Properties.
Exports all custom elements to a library file *.uel in the current model folder. You can export custom elements to a file, and then import the file into another model.
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3.5 Custom elements reference

The following table lists the commands used to define, create, and manage custom elements. For detailed instructions, see the online help. Command
Define custom element
Icon
Description Starts the custom element wizard which guides you through defining a custom element. Displays a list of distance and parameter variables. The command to create distance variables. Automatically generates distance variables for custom element objects. Defines which planes can be selected. The command to create your own plane.
Variables Distance properties Automatic distances Plane types User-defined plane
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Connection Map
Introduction Contents
This appendix contains example illustrations of different connections, grouped according to their usage. This appendix is divided into the following sections: Beam to beam framing (p. 89) Beam to column framing (p. 98) Splice connections (p. 108) Joist connections (p. 112) Vertical member to beam (p. 113) Bracing connections (p. 115) Welded connections (p. 124) Details (p. 126)
Beam to beam framing

Shear tabs
Full depth shear plate - secondary beam cut short of primary member. Use connection Beam with stiffener (129) on toolbar 1.
XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Connection Map
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Full depth shear plate -secondary member sloped and/or skewed. Use connection Beam with stiffener (129) on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to beam. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to beam - bolt elimination option. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to beam - skewed secondary member. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1. Simple shear tab to beam - sloped (and skewed) secondary member. Bolts and plate oriented with secondary member. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1. Simple shear tab to beam - sloped and skewed secondary member. Valley condition. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1.
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Simple shear tab to beam - sloped and skewed secondary member. Valley condition. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1. Partial depth shear tab to top flange of beam - square or skewed, stiffener option. Use connection Welded to top flange (147) on toolbar 1. Partial depth shear tab to top flange of beam. Sloped/ square or skewed. Use connection Welded to top flange (147) on toolbar 1.
Partial depth shear tab to top flange of beam, secondary beam cut short of primary member. Square, sloped, skewed. Use connection Welded to top flange S (149) on toolbar 1. Full depth shear tab. Square, sloped, skewed. Use connection Full depth (184) on toolbar 1.
Full depth shear tab. Secondary beam cut short of primary member. Use connection Full depth S (185) on toolbar 1.
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Full depth shear tab. Secondary beam cut short of primary member. Sloped secondary. Use connection Full depth S (185) on toolbar 1. Full depth shear tab. Secondary beam cut short of primary member. Sloped and skewed secondary (hip &valley). Use connection Full depth S (185) on toolbar 1. Full depth shear tab. Secondary beam cut short of primary member. Secondary offset. Bolt elimination option. Use connection Full depth S (185) on toolbar 1.
Clip angles
Clip angle connection single sided clip/double sided clip. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1.
Clip angle connection single sided clip/double sided clip. Sloped secondary member. Various notching options. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1.
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Clip angle connection single sided clip/double sided clip. Weld prep option. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection single sided clip/double sided clip. Sloped secondary member. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection single sided clip/double sided clip. Two secondary members. Bolted/bolted, welded/bolted, welded/welded options. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection single sided clip/double sided clip. Two secondary members at differing heights. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection single sided clip/double sided clip. Two secondary members. Safety connection. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection single sided clip/double sided clip. Two secondary members. One sloped. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1.
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End plates
End plate connection - level or sloped, square or skewed secondary member. Various notching options. Use connection End plate (144) on toolbar 1. End plate connection extended plate with or without haunches. Use connection End plate (144) on toolbar 1.
End plate connection two secondaries. Automatic notch for bolt clearance. Use connection Two sided end plate (142) on toolbar 1.
End plate connection two secondaries at differing heights. Use connection Two sided end plate (142) on toolbar 1.
End plate connection two secondaries. Square and /or skewed. Use connection Two sided end plate (142) on toolbar 1. End plate connection two secondaries. Safety connection. Use connection Two sided end plate (142) on toolbar 1.
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End plate connection two secondaries. Level and/or sloped. Use connection Two sided end plate (142) on toolbar 1.
Bent plate
Bent plate connection skewed or square secondary, plate near side and far side. Use connection Bent plate (190) on toolbar 1. Bent plate connection skewed or square secondary, plate one side. Use connection Bent plate (190) on toolbar 1. Bent plate connection skewed or square secondary, plate one side. Various plate placing options. Use connection Bent plate (190) on toolbar 1. Bent plate connection skewed and sloped (Hip & Valley). Use connection Bent plate (190) on toolbar 1.
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Bearing type
Beam to beam bearing connection. Options for 1,2,3, or 4 bolts. Use connection Seating (30) on toolbar 7. Beam to beam bearing connection. Spacer option. Use connection Seating (30) on toolbar 7. Beam to beam bearing connection. Brace support. Use connection Seating (30) on toolbar 7. Beam to beam bearing connection with stub column. Square, sloped and skewed conditions. Use connection Cross (4) on toolbar 7. Beam to beam bearing clamp type connection. Use connection Seating with nail (36) on toolbar 7. Beam to beam bearing purlin connection to single purlin. Use connection Purlin connections (93) on toolbar 7.
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Beam to beam bearing purlin connection to two purlins. Use connection Purlin connections (93) on toolbar 7. Beam to beam bearing notched seating connection. Square and skewed conditions. Use connection Notched seating (9) on toolbar 7. Beam to beam bearing tube steel rails to primary member. Cope or hole bolt access options. Use connection Tube rail (113) on toolbar 7. Beam to beam bearing notched seat with angle. Use connection Rail joint (70) on toolbar 12. Beam to beam bearing rafter connection to two secondary members. Notching required. Use connection Rail joint (70) on toolbar 12. Beam to beam bearing rafter connection to two secondary members. Plate. Notching required. Use connection Rail joint (70) on toolbar 12. Beam to beam bearing rafter connection to two secondary members. Sloped/ level notching required. Use connection Rail joint (70) on toolbar 12.
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Beam to beam full bearing rafter connection to two secondary members. Plate. Use connection Cold rolled overlap (1) on toolbar 13. Beam to beam full bearing rafter connection to two secondary members. Angle. Use connection Cold rolled overlap (1) on toolbar 13. Beam to beam full bearing rafter connection to two secondary members. Knee brace option. Use connection Cold rolled overlap (1) on toolbar 13.
Beam to column framing

Shear tabs
Simple shear tab to column flange. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to edge/column flange. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1.
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Simple shear tab to column flange with seat angle options. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1. Simple shear tab to column flange. Bolt elimination options. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1. Shaped shear plate with column stiffeners. Use connection Column with stiffeners W (182) on toolbar 1. Shaped shear plate with column stiffeners. Sloped secondary. Use connection Column with stiffeners W (182) on toolbar 1. Shaped shear plate with column stiffeners. Bolts aligned with secondary member. Use connection Column with stiffeners W (182) on toolbar 1. Shaped shear plate with column stiffeners. Bolt elimination option. Use connection Column with stiffeners W (182) on toolbar 1. Shear plate with column stiffeners. Use connection Column with stiffeners (186) on toolbar 1.
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Shear plate with column stiffeners. Sloped secondary. Use connection Column with stiffeners (186) on toolbar 1. Shear plate with column stiffeners. Skewed secondary. Use connection Column with stiffeners (186) on toolbar 1. Shear plate to column flange with column stiffeners. Use connection Column with stiffeners (188) on toolbar 1. Shear plate to column flange with column stiffeners. Weld prep and rat holes for moment connection option. Use connection Column with stiffeners (188) on toolbar 1. Bolted moment connection to column flange with column stiffeners. Use connection Bolted moment connection (134) on toolbar 1. Bolted moment connection to column web. Use connection Bolted moment connection (134) on toolbar 1. Bolted moment connection to column web. Sloped secondary member. Use connection Bolted moment connection (134) on toolbar 1.
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Welded moment connection to column flange. Beam weld prep and rat hole options. Use connection Moment connection (181) on toolbar 1. Welded moment connection to column flange. Sloped. Use connection Moment connection (181) on toolbar 1. Shear plate through tube column. Use connection Shear plate tube column (189) on toolbar 1.
Shear plate through tube column. Two secondaries. Use connection Shear plate tube column (189) on toolbar 1. Shear plate through tube column. Two secondaries. Plate extended to top of column option. Use connection Shear plate tube column (189) on toolbar 1. Shear plate through tube column. Two secondaries, level and/or sloped. Bolt alignment options. Use connection Shear plate tube column (189) on toolbar 1. Shear plate through tube column. Third secondary member after connection applied to original two secondaries. Use connection Shear plate tube column (189) on toolbar 1.
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Clip angles
Clip angle connection to column flange or web. Single sided /double sided clip. Welded/bolted, bolted/bolted, welded/ welded options. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection to column flange or web. Single sided /double sided clip. Sloped secondary. Square or bevel cut secondary options. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection to column flange or web. Single sided /double sided clip. Weld prep and rat holes for moment connection. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection to column knife connection. Bottom flange blocked or stripped for erection. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection to column. Seat angle option. Top/Bottom/Both. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection to column flange or web. Single sided /double sided clip. Haunch extension option. Top/Bottom/ Both. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1.
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Clip angle connection to column flange or web. Single sided /double sided clip. Rotated secondary Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection. Single sided / double sided clip. Two secondary members. Bolted/bolted, welded/bolted, welded/welded options. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection. Single sided / double sided clip. Two secondary members. Haunch extension option. Top/ Bottom/Both. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection. Single sided / double sided clip. Two secondary members. Weld prep and rat holes for moment connection. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection. Automatic notching of secondary member to provide bolt clearance. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle connection. Single sided / double sided clip. Two secondary members rotated. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1.
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End plates
End plate connection to column flange or web. Level or sloped, square or skewed secondary member Use connection End plate (144) on toolbar 1. Full depth end plate connection to column flange or web. Level or sloped, square or skewed secondary member. Use connection End plate (144) on toolbar 1. End plate connection to column web. Extended plate with haunches option. Use connection End plate (144) on toolbar 1. End plate connection to column flange. Column stiffener option. Use connection End plate (144) on toolbar 1. End plate connection to column. Secondary member rotated. Use connection End plate (144) on toolbar 1. End plate connection. Two secondaries. Automatic notching for bolt clearance. Haunch option. Use connection Two sided end palte (142) on toolbar 1.
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Bent plate
Bent plate connection to column flange. Skewed or square secondary. Plate Near side\Far side\Both sides. Use connection Bent plate (190) on toolbar 1. Bent plate connection to column web. Skewed or square secondary. Plate Near side\Far side\Both sides. Use connection Bent plate (190) on toolbar 1.
Welded tee
Welded tee to column. Use connection Welded tee (32) on toolbar 2.
Seated connection
Beam seat with stiffeners. Use connection Rail joint (170) on toolbar 12.
Beam seat top and bottom with stiffeners. Various bolting options. Use connection Rail joint (170) on toolbar 12.
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Beam seat. Multiple stiffener options. Use connection Rail joint (170) on toolbar 12.
Beam seat. Offset secondary member. Use connection Rail joint (170) on toolbar 12.
Bearing type cap plate

Beam cantilever over column with cap plate. Use connection U.S. Base plate joint (71) on toolbar 5. Beam cantilever over column with cap plate. Sloped secondary. Use connection U.S. Base plate joint (71) on toolbar 5. Beam cantilever over column with cap plate. Beam stiffener option. Use connection U.S. Base plate joint (71) on toolbar 5. Beam cantilever over column with cap plate. Column stiffener option. Use connection U.S. Base plate joint (71) on toolbar 5.
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Two beams to column cap plate. Beam stiffener options. Use connection Seating (39) on toolbar 7. Beam column cap plate. Tube steel rails to primary member. Cope or hole bolt access options. Use connection Column tube seating (100) on toolbar 7. Wind column to beam connection. Use connection Wind column (5) on toolbar 12.
Wind column to beam connection. Plate offset option Use connection Wind column (5) on toolbar 12.
Girt to column
Single girt to column. Angle connection. Use connection Rail joint (70) on toolbar 12. Two girts to column. Angle connection. Use connection Rail joint (70) on toolbar 12.
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Beam to column outrigger connection. Primary and secondary member stiffener options. Use connection Stub (28) on toolbar 12. Two girts to column. WT connection. Use connection U.S. seat joint 3 (74) on toolbar 12.
Splice connections
Beam to beam
Clip angle splice connection. Bolted/ bolted, welded/bolted, welded/welded options. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle splice connection. One sided. Bolted/bolted, welded/bolted, welded/ welded options. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1. Clip angle splice connection. Beams in differing planes. Use connection Two sided clip angle (143) on toolbar 1.
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To make a clip angle type splice connection it is necessary to create a "dummy" primary part to bolt through. The beams to be spliced will be the secondary members. Make the "dummy" plate 1/8" thick with special properties so that it can be filtered out when making drawings. Use the settings shown below on the Picture tab.
Beam to beam web splice plate welded to primary/ bolted to secondary. Use connection Tab plate (33) on toolbar 8. Beam to beam web splice plate welded to primary/ bolted to secondary. Beams in differing planes. Use connection Tab plate (33) on toolbar 8. Beam to beam web splice plate welded to primary/ bolted to secondary. Members rotated. Use connection Tab plate (33) on toolbar 8. Beam to beam web splice plate bolted to both members. Both members in same plane. Use connection Column splice (42) on toolbar 8. Beam to beam end plate splice. Use connection Joining plates (14) on toolbar 8.
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Beam to beam end plate splice. Members of different depths. Use connection Joining plates (14) on toolbar 8. Beam to beam welded splice. Stair stringer to landing. Use connection Cranked beam (41) on toolbar 7. Note: Does not work on very shallow slopes, or beams in same plane. Beam to beam bolted end plate splice. Use connection Cranked beam (41) on toolbar 7. Note: Does not work on very shallow slopes, or beams in same plane. Beam to beam bolted end plate splice with haunch. Use connection Cranked beam (41) on toolbar 7. Note: Does not work on very shallow slopes, or beams in same plane. Beam to beam bolted end plate splice with haunch stiffener plate option. Use connection Cranked beam (41) on toolbar 7. Note: Does not work on very shallow slopes, or beams in same plane. Beam to beam welded splice, "Z" cut. Use connection Offshore Z (192) on toolbar 8.
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Beam to beam welded splice, "Z" square cut. Use connection Offshore Z (192) on toolbar 8.
Column splice
Column splice. Bolted to both members. Both members in same plane. Use connection Column splice (42) on toolbar 8. Column splice. Bolted to both members. Shim plates for differing profiles. Use connection Column splice (42) on toolbar 8. Column splice. Bolted to both members. Lifting hole option. Use connection Column splice (42) on toolbar 8. Column splice with division plate and connection angles. Use connection Column splice (132) on toolbar 8.
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Joist connections
Joist to beam/ Joist to column
Joist bearing on beam. Use connection Joist to beam, type 1 (160) on toolbar 12.
Joist bearing on beam. Top chord extension option. Use connection Joist to beam, type 1 (160) on toolbar 12. Joist bearing to column. Cap plate, stabilizer bar or angle option. Top chord extension option also available. Use connection Joist to column, type 1 (161) on toolbar 12. Two joists bearing to column. Cap plate, stabilizer bar or angle option. Use connection 2 sided joist to column (162) on toolbar 12. Two joists bearing to column. Cap plate, cap plate level or on slope of joists. Use connection 2 sided joist to column (162) on toolbar 12. Joist framing to side of column. Stabilizer bar or angle option. Use connection Joist to column, type 2 (163) on toolbar 12.
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Joist framing to side of column. Seat angle across toes of flanges. Use connection Joist to column, type 2 (163) on toolbar 12. Joist framing to joist girders at column. Use connection Joist to beam and column (164) on toolbar 12.
Vertical member to beam

Post and door jamb to top of beam
Post base plate to top of beam. Primary and secondary stiffener options. Use connection U.S. base plate joint (71) on toolbar 5. Simple shear tab to post or channel jamb. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1. Clip angle to channel jamb. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1.
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Clip angle to railing post. Use connection Stringer stanchion L profile (68) on toolbar 11.
Railing post connection plate to beam stiffener. Use connection Stringer stanchion st (69) on toolbar 11 Railing post elbow to connection plate. Use connection Stanchion curved (84) on toolbar 11.
Shear tab to railing post. Use connection Stanchion side profile (86) on toolbar 11.
Builtup plate railing post connection. Use connection Stanchion double plate (87) on toolbar 11.
Hangers from underside of beam

Clip angle hanger connection. Use connection Clip angle (141) on toolbar 1.
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Simple shear tab hanger connection. Use connection Shear plate simple (146) on toolbar 1.
Bracing connections
Simple gusset plate connections
Gusset plate to single brace. Horizontal and vertical bracing. Various bracing profiles. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Load connection attribute < Defaults > and select Defaults for Rule Group for best results. Gusset plate to single brace. Horizontal and vertical bracing. Hollow round brace with pin bolt option. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Load connection attribute < Defaults > and select Defaults for Rule Group for best results. Gusset plate to single brace. Brace and primary member at same elevation Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4.
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Gusset plate to single brace at base plate of column. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate hollow section "Birds mouth" connection to secondary members. Use connection Tube gusset (20) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate hollow section tongue plate connection to secondary members. Use connection Tube gusset (20) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate to twin profile brace. Vertical or horizontal brace. Multiple bracing members. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate to twin profile brace. Twin profile primary member. Weld or bolt to primary. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate with connection plate. Bolted to primary option. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate with connection plate. Bolted to primary option. Various gusset plate shaping options. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4.
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Gusset plate to hollow section brace. Pin bolt and tension angle option. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate to hollow section brace. Pin bolt and tension angle option. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate to WT section brace. Notching option. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Load connection attribute < Defaults > and select Defaults for Rule Group for best results. Gusset plate through hollow section column to hollow section bracing at base plate. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Select column, then brace and brace. Gusset plate through hollow section column to WT bracing at base plate. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Select column, then brace and brace. Gusset plate through hollow section column to angle bracing at base plate. Single or twin profile. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Select column, then brace and brace.
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Wrapped gusset plate W section bracing. Various bracing connection options. Welded/bolted, bolted/bolted. Use connection Gusset wrapped cross (62) on toolbar 4. Wrapped gusset plate W section bracing. Various bracing connection options. Welded/bolted, bolted/bolted. Use connection Gusset wrapped cross (62) on toolbar 4. Wrapped gusset plate W section bracing. Various bracing connection options for each brace. Use connection Gusset wrapped cross (62) on toolbar 4. Wrapped gusset plate W section bracing. Various gusset plate connection options. Use connection Gusset wrapped cross (62) on toolbar 4. Hollow section bracing tongue plate connection to existing gusset plate. Use connection Tube crossing (22) on toolbar 4. Wrapped gusset W section bracing connection to existing gusset plate. Use connection Wrapped cross (61) on toolbar 4. Hollow section bracing WT end connection to existing gusset plate. Use connection Portal bracing (105) on toolbar 4.
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Bolted brace connection to existing gusset plate. Use connection Bracing cross (19) on toolbar 4.
Gusset plate at "X" bracing cross

Gusset plate WT section bracing. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Load connection < Defaults > properties and select Defaults for Rule group for best results. Gusset plate angle bracing to angle or other type of section. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Load connection < Defaults > properties and select Defaults for Rule group for best results. Gusset plate to top of primary and multiple bracings. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate through hollow section primary to multiple bracings. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate bolted to top of primary and multiple bracings. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4.
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Gusset plate hollow section bracing. Tongue plate connection to secondary members. Use connection Tube gusset (20) on toolbar 4. Gusset plate hollow section bracing. Pin bolt to secondary members. Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on toolbar 4. Load connection < Defaults > properties and select Defaults for Rule group for best results. Gusset plate hollow section "Birds mouth" connection to secondary members. Use connection Tube gusset (20) on toolbar 4. Load connection attribute"birdsmouth". Gusset plates top and bottom to W section bracing. Use connection Diagonal splice (53) on toolbar 4. Gusset plates top and bottom to W section bracing. Gusset welded to primary member. Use connection Diagonal splice (53) on toolbar 4.
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Corner bracing gusset (boomerang)

Corner gusset plate connection for vertical or horizontal bracing. Use connection Boomerang bracing cross (60) on toolbar 4. Load connection < Defaults > properties and select Defaults for Rule group for best results. Corner gusset plate connection. Pin bolt option for hollow section brace. Use connection Boomerang bracing cross (60) on toolbar 4. Load connection < Defaults > properties and select Defaults for Rule group for best results. Corner gusset plate connection. Multiple braces supported (9-max.). Use connection Boomerang bracing cross (60) on toolbar 4. Corner gusset plate connection. Various plate cutting and connection options. Use connection Boomerang bracing cross (60) on toolbar 4. Corner gusset plate connection. Primary members at differing elevations. Use connection Boomerang bracing cross (60) on toolbar 4. Bracing connection at column base plate. Use connection Boomerang bracing cross (60) on toolbar 4. Select base plate as secondary primary member.
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Corner gusset plate to hollow section bracing. Members with tongue plate connection. Use connection Boomerang tube diagonal (59) on toolbar 4. Corner gusset plate to hollow section bracing. Members with "Birds mouth" connection. Use connection Boomerang tube diagonal (59) on toolbar 4. Wrapped corner gusset plate to W section bracing members. Use connection Boomerang wrapped diagonal (58) on toolbar 4. Wrapped corner gusset plate to hollow section bracing members. Angles top and bottom. Use connection Boomerang wrapped diagonal (58) on toolbar 4. Corner gusset plate welded to extended end plate. Pin bolt option for hollow section bracing. Use connection Corner bolted gusset (57) on toolbar 4. Select end plate as secondary primary member. Corner gusset plate welded to extended end plate. Various bracing sections supported. Use connection Corner bolted gusset (57) on toolbar 4. Select end plate as secondary primary member.
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Corner gusset plate welded to extended end plate. Tongue plate to hollow section bracing. Use connection Corner tube gusset (56) on toolbar 4. Select end plate as secondary primary member. Wrapped corner gusset plate welded to extended end plate for W section bracing. Use connection Corner wrapped gusset (63) on toolbar 4. Select end plate as secondary primary member. Wrapped corner gusset plate. Welded to extended end plate for W section bracing. Angles to bracing flange only option. Use connection Corner wrapped gusset (63) on toolbar 4. Select end plate as secondary primary member. Wrapped corner gusset plate. Welded to extended end plate for W section bracing. Web connection plate only option. Use connection Corner wrapped gusset (63) on toolbar 4. Select end plate as secondary primary member.
Rod bracing
Rod bracing through web of primary member. Use connection Windbracing (1) on toolbar 4.
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Turnbuckle between two rods. Use connection Muffe (26) on toolbar 8.
Rod bracing bent plate connection. Use connection Diagonal brace connection (12) on toolbar 13.
Rod bracing bent plate connection. Bolted to primary member. Use connection Diagonal brace connection (12) on toolbar 13.
Welded connections
Beam to beam
Welded beam to beam. Use connection Fitting (13) on toolbar 3.
Welded beam to beam with horizontal stiffeners. Use connection Fitting (13) on toolbar 3.
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Welded beam to beam with primary. Vertical stiffeners. Use connection Welded beam to beam (123) on toolbar 3. Welded beam to beam with haunch. Use connection Offshore (194) on toolbar 3.
Welded beam to beam with haunch. Various haunch options. Use connection Offshore (194) on toolbar 3. Welded beam to beam with haunch. Various haunch options. Use connection Offshore (194) on toolbar 3. Welded round profile to round profile. Use connection Round tube (23) on toolbar 3.
Welded round profile to round profile Differing profile size and skewed secondary. Use connection Round tube (23) on toolbar 3.
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Beam to column
Welded to column with weld prep and stiffener options. Use connection Welded column with stiffeners (128) on toolbar 3. Welded to column. Use connection Welded column (31) on toolbar 3.
Details
Base plates
Column base plate with grout hole option. Use connection U.S. base plate (1047) on toolbar 5.
Column base plate with shear key option. Use connection U.S. base plate (1047) on toolbar 5. Column base plate with stiffener option. Use connection U.S. base plate (1047) on toolbar 5.
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Offset column base plate (shear key and grout hole optional). Use connection U.S. base plate (1047) on toolbar 5. Column base plate bolt elimination and interior corner chamfer option. Use connection U.S. base plate (1047) on toolbar 5. Column base plate located from face of flange. Use connection Base plate (1042) on toolbar 5. Circular column base plate with stiffener option. Use connection Circular base plates (1052) on toolbar 5. Horizontal base plate to sloped post. Use connection Base plate (1053) on toolbar 5.
Stiffeners
Stiffener plate detail to column. Use connection Stiffeners (1003) on toolbar 5.
127
Stiffener plate detail to beam. Use connection Stiffeners (1003) on toolbar 5.
Partial depth stiffener plate detail to beam. Use connection Stiffeners (1041) on toolbar 5. Partial depth stiffener plate detail to column. Use connection Stiffeners (1041) on toolbar 5. Parallel stiffener plates. Use connection Horizontal stiffener (1017) on toolbar 5.
Flange stiffener plates. Use connection Stiffeners (1030) on toolbar 5.
Stiffened notch. Use connection Stiffened notch (1006) on toolbar 5.
Stiffened notch. Notch cut on bevel to member. Use connection Stiffened notch (1006) on toolbar 5.
128
Manlock holes and lifting lugs

Manlock holes in column. Use connection Manlock column (1032) on toolbar 6.
Manlock holes in beam. Use connection Manlock beam (1033) on toolbar 6.
Lifting lug to beam. Use connection Lifting/alignment pieces (1031) on toolbar 6.
Lifting lug to beam chamfered plate. Use connection Lifting/alignment pieces (1031) on toolbar 6.
Seat details
Plate seat with stiffeners. Use connection Stub plate (1013) on toolbar 12.
Angle seat with stiffener. Use connection Angle profile box (1040) on toolbar 12.
129
Angle seat with stiffener. Bolt to primary and through seat options. Use connection U.S. seat detail (1048) on toolbar 12. Angle seat with stiffener. Bolt to primary placed at a given distance apart. Use connection U.S. seat detail (1048) on toolbar 12. WT seat detail. Use connection U.S. seat detail 2 (1049) on toolbar 12.
Rotated angle seat. Stiffener plate option available. Use connection U.S. seat detail 2 (1049) on toolbar 12.
Cap plate and bearing plate

Bearing plate at end of beam. Use connection U.S. bearing plate (1044) on toolbar 7.
Cap plate. Use connection End plate detail (1002) on toolbar 5.
130
Miscellaneous
Spacer plate between twin profiles. Welded or bolted. Use connection Twin profile connection plate (1046) on toolbar 6.
131
132
Index
A
acos .................................................. 78 asin ................................................... 78 assemblies defining ........................................ 20 atan ................................................... 78 atan2 ................................................. 78 AutoConnection using ........................................... 30 automatic properties .............................. 13 ave.................................................... 76
connections defining bolt assemblies ...................29 toolbars ..........................................8 cos ....................................................78 cosh ..................................................78 custom connections properties ......................................62 Custom element editor ...........................64 custom element wizard...........................59 custom elements defining ..................................58, 59 interface .......................................79
B
beam profiles selecting ....................................... 18 bind to plane ....................................... 69 bolt assemblies defining in connections .................... 29 bolts bolt group orientation ....................... 23 bolt group pattern ........................... 24 bolt position ................................... 25 bolt spacing ................................... 23 defining .................................. 20, 22 deleting ........................................ 28 edge distance ................................ 25 increasing bolt length ....................... 22 number of ..................................... 23 overview of properties on the bolts tab . 21
D
default properties ..................................13 distance ..............................................69 double ................................................76
E
edge distance bolts ............................................25 exp ....................................................75 exploding connections ...........................58
F
fabs ...................................................75 find ....................................................77 floor ...................................................76 formulas .............................................72 fP() ....................................................73 functions for equations ...........................73
C
ceil .................................................... 76
XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Index
133
G
getat ..................................................77
H
holes creating ........................................23 hypot .................................................75
plates defining.........................................17 dimensioning..................................18 pow ...................................................75 properties automatic ......................................13 default ..........................................13 system default ................................12
R
reference function .................................73 round .................................................75
I
In ......................................................75 int .....................................................76
S
setat ..................................................77 sin .....................................................78 sinh ...................................................78 slotted holes defining.........................................27 sqave .................................................76 sqrt ....................................................75 sqsum ................................................76 string..................................................76 sum ...................................................76 system default properties ........................12
L
length ................................................77 log.....................................................75
M
match ................................................77 materials defining ........................................20 max ...................................................76 min ....................................................76 mod ...................................................75 Model browser .....................................66
T
tan .....................................................78 tanh ...................................................78
N
n! ......................................................75
U
up direction..........................................12 user connections ..................................58 creating ........................................85 user details ..........................................58
P
parameters..........................................71 part position number..............................18 parts defining ........................................17 dialog box tabs ...............................17 dimensioning .................................17 part position number ........................18 setting default prefix and start number .19
V
variables .............................................67
134
W
welds defining .................................. 20,
29
135

Detailing 90 Enu

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Detailing 90 Enu

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Xsteel

Product version 9.0 June 2003

Getting Started ............................................................................................ 5

Steel Connection Properties .................................................................. 35

Appendix B : Connection Map ............................................................. 89 Index ......................................................................................................... 133

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL

Additional help resources

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Preface

Area office Germany Japan Malaysia Middle East Sweden UK US

Email address xsteelsupportgermany@de.tekla.com xsteelsupport-japan@jp.tekla.com xsteelsupport@tekla.com.my XsteelSupport-ME@tekla.com xsteelsupport@se.tekla.com xsteelsupport@tekla.co.uk xsteelsupport-atlanta@ga.tekla.com

Conventions used in this guide

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Preface

Chapter 1: Getting Started

Chapter 2: Steel Connection Properties

Chapter 3: Custom elements

Appendix B: Connection Map

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Preface

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Examples Stairs, frames

Stiffeners, base plates, lifting hooks

Exploding connections (p. 58)

Toolbar number or symbol

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Connection dialog box

Xsteel uses the automatic property value

The parts the connection creates appear in yellow

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Pick the parts in the order shown in the Picture

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Manually defining up direction

Automatic and default properties

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Default and automatic properties

More information Using AutoDefaults (p. 32)

1.2 Using connections

This section explains how to use connections. It also includes an example.

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

shown in dialog box.

Tips on working with connections

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Switch parts on/ off

Default: Xsteel creates stiffeners. Automatic: Xsteel creates stiffeners.

Xsteel does not create stiffeners. Xsteel creates stiffeners.

Entering valid profiles

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

1.3 Defining parts and plates

Using the dialog box

Where there is one tab, the label is usually Parts or Plates.

Several Parts tabs

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Description Plate thickness Plate width Plate height

Part position number

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Using the Preferences tab

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Using the Preferences tab

1.4 Defining bolts and welds

XSTEEL DETAILING MANUAL Getting Started

Using the Bolts tab