Steel Roof Truss Modelling of Warehouse Etab 17 (Part 1)

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to modeling a steel roof truss structure in CSI Etabs 2017, based on a detailed video tutorial by Civil Studs. Understanding how to create structural models is essential for civil engineers and architects, and this guide will help you learn the foundational skills needed for effective modeling in Etabs.

Step 1: Setting Up the Project

1. Open CSI Etabs 2017: Launch the software and select “New Model.”
2. Define Units: Choose the appropriate units for your project (e.g., metric or imperial) based on your design requirements.
3. Set Grid Lines:
   • Go to the "Grid" menu to create a grid layout.
   • Input the necessary dimensions and spacing according to your warehouse design.

Step 2: Creating the Model Geometry

1. Add Levels:
   • Navigate to the “Story Data” section.
   • Define the number of stories and their heights, ensuring to set the top level higher to accommodate the truss design.
2. Draw the Plan:
   • Use the “Draw” tool to outline the warehouse footprint.
   • Ensure all dimensions are accurate and match your design specifications.

Step 3: Modeling the Truss

1. Insert Truss Members:
   • Access the “Frame” option to add beams and columns.
   • For truss members, specify the cross-sectional properties.
   • Common shapes include rectangular or circular sections; select according to your design.
2. Connect Members:
   • Use the “Joint” tool to connect the ends of the truss members accurately.
   • Ensure all connections are aligned and properly defined to avoid modeling errors.

Step 4: Assigning Materials and Properties

1. Define Materials:
   • Go to the “Define” menu and select “Materials.”
   • Input the properties for steel, including modulus of elasticity, yield strength, and density.
2. Assign Material to Members:
   • Select each truss member and assign the defined steel material to it.
   • Double-check to ensure all members have the correct properties.

Step 5: Applying Loads

1. Define Load Combinations:
   • Navigate to the “Load Combinations” section.
   • Create combinations for dead loads, live loads, wind loads, etc., as per the design codes.
2. Apply Loads to Members:
   • Select the truss members and apply the load combinations defined earlier.
   • Ensure that load applications reflect real-world conditions accurately.

Step 6: Running the Analysis

1. Check the Model:
   • Review the entire model for any inconsistencies or errors in geometry, materials, and loads.
2. Run Analysis:
   • Click on the “Analyze” button to run the structural analysis.
   • Monitor the process for any warnings or errors that may arise during analysis.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to set up a project in CSI Etabs 2017, create a steel roof truss model, assign materials, apply loads, and run an analysis. These foundational steps are crucial for effective structural modeling. As a next step, consider exploring more advanced features in Etabs, such as dynamic analysis or optimization techniques, to further enhance your modeling skills.