STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No.

Type: Uniform Beam With One Redundant Support.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: Timoshenko, S., “Strength of Materials”, Part I, Second Edition, D. Van Nostrand
Company, 1940, pages 181 and 182.

Problem: A uniform beam is clamped at one end and is simply supported at the other end. This
arrangement of supports offers the minimum analytic difficulty for an indeterminate
structure. The single load case is a uniformly distributed vertical force of 100 pounds per
inch. Find the moment at the clamped end, the reaction at the simple support, and the
mid-span deflection.
Model

Two beam elements are sufficient for the analysis. The center node is included so that the mid-span
deflection will be printed. Shear deformation is not included in the analysis. The beam has a solid circular
cross-section, with a diameter of 1.5 inches. The material has an elastic modulus of 30x106 psi.

Theoretical Answers

Moment at the clamped end:

ql 2 (100 )(20 )
2
M= = = 5000 inch- pounds
8 8
Reaction at the simple support:

3 3
R = ql = (100 )(20 ) = 750 pounds
8 8
Mid-span deflection:

1 ql 4
d=−
192 EI

π 4 π
r = (.75) = 0.24850 inches4
4
where I=
4 4

d=−
1 §
¨
(100 )(20 )
4
·
¸ = −0.011178 inches
¨
192 © (30 )(10 ) (0.24850 ) ¸¹
6
STAAD.PRO Answers

From the Equilibrium check :

(1) The x3 Moment at node 1 is the clamped end moment, and is equal to 5000-inch pounds.
(2) The x2 Force at node 3 is the simple support reaction of 750 pounds.

From the Deflections:

The deflection at Node 2 is -.011178 inches.

Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Answers

Item Theory STAAD.PRO

Clamped End Moment (inch-pounds) 5000. 5000.
Simple Support Reaction (pounds) 750. 750.
Mid-Span Deflection (inches) -.011178 -.011178

Input file

STAAD PLANE VER. PROB. 1

UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 0 0 3 20 0 0
MEMB INCI
1122
MEMB PROP
1 2 PRIS AX 1.767 IZ 0.2485
CONST
E 30E6 ALL
SUPP
1 FIXED
3 FIXED BUT FX MZ
LOAD 1
MEMBER LOAD
1 2 UNI GY -100.0
PERF ANALY
PRINT JOINT DISP LIST 2
PRINT SUPP REAC
FINISH
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 2
Type: Indeterminate Frame.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: Timoshenko, S., “Strength of Materials”, Part I, Second Edition, D. Van Nostrand
Company, 1940, pages 188 thru 191.

Problem: A statically indeterminate frame, consisting of three members, has a concentrated force
applied at mid-span. The two vertical members are hinged at the ground support points.
The reaction forces and, the bending moments at the ends of the horizontal beam will be
determined.
Model

Five nodes and four beam elements form the computer model. Node 3, at the center of the horizontal
member is required for the input of the applied load. For the restraints at Node 1 and 5, the X2 axis degress-
of-freedom are input as being free to rotate. Shear deflection is not used for the beams.

The analysis considers both axial and bending deformation of the beam elements, while the theory uses only
bending deformation. The differences of the reactions and internal moments is infinitesimal.

Material Properties

Elastic Modulus = 30 x 106 PSI

Vertical Beams = 2 x 2 inches (Square)
Horizontal Beam = 4 x 2 inches (Rectangular)

Cross-section Properties

Vertical Beams
Area = 2 x 2 = 4 sq. inches

9 4 9 4
J= b = 2 = 2.250 inches4
64 64

b4 24
I2 = = = 1.3333 inches4
12 12
I3 = 1.3333 inches4

Horizontal Beams
Area = 4 x 2 = 8 sq. inches

hb 3 ª16 bª 1 § b · ºº
4

J= « − 3.36 «1 − ¨ ¸ » »
16 ¬« 3 h ¬« 12 © h ¹ ¼» ¼»
 4x 2 3 ª16 2ª 1 § 2 · ºº
4

J= « − 3.36 «1 − ¨ ¸ » » = 7.324 inches4

16 «¬ 3 4 ¬« 12 © 4 ¹ ¼» »¼

4x 23
I2 = = 2.6667 inches4
12

2 x 43
I3 = = 10.6667 inches4
12

Theoretical Answers

Vertical reaction is:

P 1000
= = 500 pounds
2 2
Horizontal reaction is:

Pl 1 1000 x120 1
= = 27.5504 pounds
8h 1 + 2 h I 2 8x1000 1 + 2 100 10.6667
3 l I1 3 120 1.3333
The corner bending moment is the horizontal reaction multiplied by the height, h:

27.5504 x 100 = 2755.04 inch pounds

STAAD.PRO Answers

From the Equilibrium Check, with the signs reversed, the reactions at Nodes 1 are:
Horizontal reaction = 27.5497 pounds
Vertical reaction = 500.0 pounds

From the Beam End Loads in the Global System, the end moment for Beam 3, at Node 4, with the sign
reversed, is:
Moment MX3 = 2755.00 inch pounds

Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Answers

Item Theory STAAD.PRO

Vertical Reaction (pounds) 500. 500.
Horizontal Reaction (pounds) 27.5504 27.5497
Beam Moment (inch-pounds) 2755.04 2755.00
Input File

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 2

UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 0 0 ; 2 0 100 0 ; 3 60 100 0 ; 4 120 100 0 ; 5 120 0 0
MEMB INCI
112;223;334;445
MEMB PROP
1 4 PRIS AX 4.0 IX 2.25 IY 1.3333 IZ 1.3333
2 3 PRIS AX 8 IX 7.324 IY 2.6667 IZ 10.6667
CONST
E 30E6 ALL
SUPP
1 5 FIXED BUT MZ
LOAD 1
JOINT LOAD
3 FY -1000.0
PERF ANALY
PRINT SUPP REAC
PRINT MEMB FORCES LIST 1
FINISH
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 3

Type: Uniform Pressure On A Circular Plate.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers from small deflection plate theory to the STAAD.PRO
solution.

Reference: Timoshenko, S., and Woinowsky-Krieger, S., “Theory of Plates and Shells”, Second
Edition, McGraw-Hill, 1959, pages 42 and 57.

Problem: Deflections and stresses for a circular plate structure are determined, for a uniform
pressure. The plate is simply supported around its entire periphery.

Note : While analyzing this model using the “STARDYNE Advanced Analysis” option, the
following settings have to be chosen for the “STARDYNE Element Type” :

Quadrilateral – Thin
Triangular - Thin
Model

The model consists of a triangular and quadrilateral elements. The quad plates are individually sized so that
each plate has the same aspect ratio. This node spacing was selected because it gives the best agreement
with the theoretical deflections and stresses.

Theoretical Answers

The deflection at radius r is:

W=
( ¨
)
q a2 − r2 § 5 + ν 2 2 ·
a −r ¸
64D © 1 + ν ¹
where

a = circle radius
q = uniform pressure
Eh 3
D=
(
12 1 − ν 2 )
E = Elastic modulus
h = plate thickness
v = Poisson’s ratio

The radial bending stress at radius r is:

Sr =
3 q
8 h2
(
(3 + ν ) a 2 − r 2 )
and the tangential bending stress is:

St =
3 q 2
8h 2
[
a (3 + ν ) − r 2 (1 + 3ν ) ]
The numerical values used for the above expressions are :

q = 0.0014 psi, a = 10.0 inches, E = 10x106 psi

h = 0.02 inches v = 0.3
 Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Answers

The deflections, perpendicular to the plate, at each node are compared in the table below. The deflections
are in inches.

Node Radius Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Deflection Deflection
1000 0 .121 734 .121 862
1 1.0 .120 221 .120 356
25 1.2916 .119 214 .119 351
49 1.6681 .117 539 .117 680
73 2.1544 .114 763 .114 906
97 2.7826 .110 176 .110 322
121 3.5938 .102 654 .102 802
145 4.6416 .090 460 .090 608
169 5.9948 .071 112 .071 251
193 7.7426 .041 588 .041 694
217 10.0 0 0

The stress comparison is based on evaluation of the theoretical stress at the average radius of each plate
element. The only exception is the triangle plate at the center, where the 2/3 radius is used.

Element Radius Radial Stress, psi Tangential Stress, psi

Theoretical STAAD.PRO Theoretical STAAD.PRO
1 .667 431.2 429.9 432.0 429.9
25 1.1458 427.4 428.0 428.9 429.2
49 1.47985 423.6 424.1 427.7 427.3
73 1.9113 417.3 417.8 424.0 423.8
97 2.4685 406.7 407.3 417.9 417.9
121 3.1882 389.1 390.0 407.8 407.9
145 4.11770 359.7 361.3 390.8 391.2
169 5.3182 310.6 313.3 362.7 363.4
193 6.86870 228.8 233.2 315.5 316.8
217 8.87130 92.26 99.68 236.9 239.2

Discussion:

The difference in results between the theoretical solution and the STAAD.PRO solution can be accounted
for by the following reasons. The theoretical solution assumes that the plate is clamped against rotation
about the radial lines at its outer periphery. The only permissible rotation along the periphery is about the
tangential lines. However the support condition in the STAAD.PRO model assumes that the plate is free to
rotate about the global X1 and X2 axes. Also, while the example in the Reference has a true circular
circumference, the STAAD.PRO model assumes the outer edge of the plate to be a series of secant lines
instead of a true arc.
Input File

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 3

UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD CYLINDRICAL
1 1 0 0 24 1 345 0
25 1.2916 0 0 48 1.2916 345 0
49 1.6681 0 0 72 1.6681 345 0
73 2.1544 0 0 96 2.1544 345 0
97 2.7826 0 0 120 2.7826 345 0
121 3.5938 0 0 144 3.5938 345 0
145 4.6416 0 0 168 4.6416 345 0
169 5.9948 0 0 192 5.9948 345 0
193 7.7426 0 0 216 7.7426 345 0
217 10.000 0 0 240 10.000 345 0
JOINT COORD
1000 0 0 0

ELEM INCI
1 1 2 1000 ; 2 2 3 1000 ; 3 3 4 1000 ; 4 4 5 1000 ; 5 5 6 1000
6 6 7 1000 ; 7 7 8 1000 ; 8 8 9 1000 ; 9 9 10 1000 ; 10 10 11 1000
11 11 12 1000 ; 12 12 13 1000 ; 13 13 14 1000 ; 14 14 15 1000
15 15 16 1000 ; 16 16 17 1000 ; 17 17 18 1000 ; 18 18 19 1000
19 19 20 1000 ; 20 20 21 1000 ; 21 21 22 1000
22 22 23 1000 ; 23 23 24 1000 ; 24 24 1 1000

25 1 2 26 25 TO 47
REP 8 24 24
48 24 1 25 48
REP 8 24 24

ELEM PROP
1 TO 240 TH 0.02

CONST
E 10.0E6 ALL
POISS 0.3 ALL

SUPP
* NODES ALONG PERIMETER
217 TO 240 FIXED BUT MX MY
* INTERNAL NODES
1 TO 216 1000 FIXED BUT FZ MX MY

LOAD 1
ELEM LOAD
1 TO 24 PR -0.0014
25 TO 240 PR 0.0014

PERF ANALY
PRINT JOINT DISP LIST 1000 1 TO 217 BY 24
PRINT ELEM STRESS LIST 1 25 49 73 97 121 145 169 193 217

FINI
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 4

Type: Uniform Pressure On A Rectangular Plate.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers from small deflection plate theory to the STAAD.PRO
solution.

Reference: Timoshenko, S., and Woinowsky-Krieger, S., “Theory of Plates and Shells”, Second
Edition, McGraw-Hill, 1959, pages 113 thru 117.

Problem: A rectangular plate, 10in X 16in, , of constant thickness of 0.2in., is simply supported
along all four edges. The applied loading is uniform pressure over the entire surface.
The analysis results are lateral deflections and bending stresses.
Model

One inch node spacing is used in both directions to form the grid of the model. The origin is located at the
center of one edge, to conform with the location used in the theoretical development. The only rotation
degree-of-freedom that is active for the edge nodes is the one whose axis is parallel to the edge. At the four
corner nodes, all 6 degrees-of-freedom are restrained.

Theoretical Answers

Deflection at any point on the plate is:

4qa 4 ∞
ª 1 § 2 + αm tanh αm 2αmy 2 y αm 2αmy · mπx º
w (x , y ) = ¦ « 5 ¨1 − 2 cosh αm cosh b + b 2 cosh αm sinh b ¸ sin a »
π5D m =1, 3,... ¬ m © ¹ ¼

where

q = uniform pressure, pounds per square inch

a = dimension in x direction, inches
b = dimension in y direction, inches
Eh 3
D=
(
12 1 − ν 2 )
E = elastic modulus, pounds per square inch
h= plate thickness in inches
v = Poisson’s ratio
mπb
αm =
2a
m = summation index, using only odd values

The bending moment due to Sx stresses:

1 ∞
ª § 2ν ·º mπx
Mx (x, y ) = qx (a − x ) + (1 − ν )qa 2 π 2 ¦ m 2 «Am cosh Km + Bm¨ Km sinh Km − cosh Km ¸» sin
2 m =1, 3,.. ¬ © 1− ν ¹¼ a

and the bending moment due to Sy stresses:

1 ∞
ª § 2ν ·º mπx
My ( x , y ) = νqx (a − x ) − (1 − ν )qa 2 π 2 ¦ m 2 «Am cosh Km + Bm¨ Km sinh Km + cosh Km ¸» sin
2 m =1, 3,.. ¬ © 1− ν ¹¼ a

where

− 2 2 + αm tanh αm
Am =
π5 m 5 cosh αm
2 1
Bm = 5 5
π m cosh αm
mπb
αm =
2a
 mπy
Km =
a
m = summation index, using only odd values

The above moments are in units of bending moment per length.

Bending stresses are computed from:

6 Mx
Sx =
h2
6 My
Sy = 2
h
The numerical values used in the above deflection and moment expressions are:

q = 1.0 psi
a = 10. 0 inches
b = 16.0 inches
E = 1x106 psi
h = 0.2 inches
v = 0.3

Within the theoretical expressions, for deflections and moments, are infinite series with index m. The
number of terms evaluated, for a particular set of coordinates x, y, was established by:

1. The maximum number of terms accumulated was 100.

2. Fewer than 100 terms were used if the ratio of the current term to the first term (m = 1) was less than
1x10-16.

Note : While analyzing this model using the “STARDYNE Advanced Analysis” option, the
following settings have to be chosen for the “STARDYNE Element Type” :

Quadrilateral – Thin
Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Answers

Deflections for nodes along the X1 axis

Node Coordinates Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Number X1 X2 Deflection (inches) Deflection (inches)
161 0 0 0 0
162 1 0 0.035 912 0.035819
163 2 0 0.067 743 0.067568
164 3 0 0.092 472 0.092232
165 4 0 0.108 078 0.107796
166 5 0 0.113 406 0.113109
167 6 0 0.108 078 0.107796
168 7 0 0.092 472 0.092232
169 8 0 0.067 743 0.067568
170 9 0 0.035 912 0.035819
171 10 0 9.4 x 10-14 0
Deflections for nodes along the line X2 = 4

Node Coordinates Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Number X1 X2 Deflection (inches) Deflection (inches)
241 0 4 0 0
242 1 4 0.027003 0.026924
243 2 4 0.050824 0.050677
244 3 4 0.069231 0.069032
245 4 4 0.080800 0.080568
246 5 4 0.084740 0.084498
247 6 4 0.080800 0.080568
248 7 4 0.069231 0.069032
249 8 4 0.050824 0.050677
250 9 4 0.027003 0.026924
251 10 4 7.1x10-14 0
Deflections for nodes along the line X1 = 5

Node Coordinates Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Number X1 X2 Deflection (inches) Deflection (inches)
186 5 1 0.111647 0.111353
206 5 2 0.106339 0.106054
226 5 3 0.097401 0.097132
246 5 4 0.084740 0.084498
266 5 5 0.068320 0.068117
286 5 6 0.048283 0.048136
306 5 7 0.025133 0.025055
326 5 8 2.5x10-15 0
Bending Stress in the X1 direction

Quad Coordinates Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Plate Number X1 X2 Bending Stress (psi) Sx Stress (psi)
9 0.5 0.5 264.4 257.7
29 1.5 0.5 689.8 682.3
49 2.5 0.5 991.4 983.4
69 3.5 0.5 1184. 1175.
89 4.5 0.5 1277. 1269.
109 5.5 0.5 1277. 1269.
129 6.5 0.5 1184. 1175.
149 7.5 0.5 991.4 983.4
169 8.5 0.5 689.8 682.3
189 9.5 0.5 264.4 257.7
90 4.5 1.5 1242. 1233.
91 4.5 2.5 1169. 1161.
92 4.5 3.5 1058. 1050.
93 4.5 4.5 904.4 897.4
94 4.5 5.5 705.4 699.5
95 4.5 6.5 459.0 454.6
96 4.5 7.5 164.7 161.9
Bending stress in the X2 direction

Quad Coordinates Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Plate Number X1 X2 Bending Stress (psi) Sy Stress (psi)
9 0.5 0.5 134.6 132.3
29 1.5 0.5 367.2 364.2
49 2.5 0.5 546.8 543.2
69 3.5 0.5 669.1 665.0
89 4.5 0.5 731.0 726.7
109 5.5 0.5 731.0 726.7
129 6.5 0.5 669.1 665.0
149 7.5 0.5 546.8 543.2
169 8.5 0.5 367.2 364.2
189 9.5 0.5 134.6 132.3
90 4.5 1.5 726.3 721.8
91 4.5 2.5 714.4 709.5
92 4.5 3.5 689.3 683.9
93 4.5 4.5 641.1 635.1
94 4.5 5.5 554.3 547.8
95 4.5 6.5 406.2 399.6
96 4.5 7.5 166.2 159.7
Input File

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 4.

UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 -8 0 11 10 -8 0
21 0 -7 0 31 10 -7 0
41 0 -6 0 51 10 -6 0
61 0 -5 0 71 10 -5 0
81 0 -4 0 91 10 -4 0
101 0 -3 0 111 10 -3 0
121 0 -2 0 131 10 -2 0
141 0 -1 0 151 10 -1 0
161 0 0 0 171 10 0 0
181 0 1 0 191 10 1 0
201 0 2 0 211 10 2 0
221 0 3 0 231 10 3 0
241 0 4 0 251 10 4 0
261 0 5 0 271 10 5 0
281 0 6 0 291 10 6 0
301 0 7 0 311 10 7 0
321 0 8 0 331 10 8 0
ELEM INCI
1 1 2 22 21 TO 16 1 20
21 2 3 23 22 TO 36 1 20
41 3 4 24 23 TO 56 1 20
61 4 5 25 24 TO 76 1 20
81 5 6 26 25 TO 96 1 20
101 6 7 27 26 TO 116 1 20
121 7 8 28 27 TO 136 1 20
141 8 9 29 28 TO 156 1 20
161 9 10 30 29 TO 176 1 20
181 10 11 31 30 TO 196 1 20
ELEM PROP
1 TO 16 21 TO 36 41 TO 56 61 TO 76 81 TO 96 101 TO 116 -
121 TO 136 141 TO 156 161 TO 176 181 TO 196 TH 0.2
CONST
E 1.0E6 ALL
POISS 0.3 ALL
SUPP
1 11 321 331 FIXED
2 TO 10 FIXED BUT MX
21 31 41 51 61 71 81 91 101 111 121 131 141 -
151 161 171 181 191 201 211 221 231 241 251 261 271 281 291 301 -
311 FIXED BUT MY
322 TO 330 FIXED BUT MX
22 TO 30 42 TO 50 62 TO 70 82 TO 90 102 TO 110 122 TO 130 -
142 TO 150 162 TO 170 182 TO 190 202 TO 210 222 TO 230 242 TO 250 -
262 TO 270 282 TO 290 302 TO 310 FIXED BUT FX FY FZ MX MY
LOAD 1
ELEMENT LOAD
1 TO 16 21 TO 36 41 TO 56 61 TO 76 81 TO 96 101 TO 116 -
121 TO 136 141 TO 156 161 TO 176 181 TO 196 PR 1.0
PERF ANALY
PRINT JOINT DISP LIST 162 TO 170
PRINT JOINT DISP LIST 242 TO 250
PRINT ELEM STRESS LIST 9 TO 189 BY 20
FINISH
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 5

Type: Static Analysis Of Thermal Loading.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: Seely, F.B., and Smith, J.O., “Advanced Mechanics of Materials”, Second Edition, John
Wiley and Sons, 1955, pages 494-497.

Problem: The internal loads caused by a temperature change are analyzed in this example. The
subject is a pipe line with two right angles. Both ends are completely restrained. Internal
forces and moments will be computed for a temperature increase of 430 degrees F.
Model

Three beams and four nodes comprise the model. The built-in boundary condition, at both ends of the pipe,
is realized by restraining all six degrees of freedom for nodes 1 and 4.

Section Properties

PIPE :Outside diameter = 12 inches; Wall thickness = 0.8725 inches

π 2
Area =
4
( )
12 − 10.2552 = 30.50 sq.in

π
Inertia =
64
( )
12 4 − 10.255 4 = 475.0 in4

J = 2 I = 950.0 in4

Theoretical Results

The solution presented in the Reference consists of a set of simultaneous equations for the thermal
expansion deflections. These equations are developed under the pretense that one end is fixed and the other
end is free. See equations 582 and 583 of the Reference.
 7 3 Px 1 3 Py
l − l = ∆X
12 EI 2 EI

1 Px 2 3 Py
− l3 + l = ∆Y
2 EI 3 EI
where

l = 240 inches
E = 26.4 x 106 per sq. inch
I = 475 inches4
∆X = α * ∆T * length in X- direction = (7.26744x10-6) (430) (480) = 1.50 inches
∆Y = α * ∆T * length in Y- direction = (7.26744x10-6) (430) (240) = 0.75 inches

Upon substituting for l, E, and I, the two equations become:

8.064 Px - 6.912 Py = 18810.0

-6.912Px +9.216Py = 9405.0

and the solution is

Px = 8980.47 pounds
Py = 7755.86 pounds
Note that the theoretical solution depends only on the bending energy, and ignores the effect of axial
energy.

STAAD.PRO Results

Forces and moments, at the two built-in ends, are taken from the Equilibrium Check, which is the final table
in the output. Reverse the sign, from the Equilibrium Check, to find the support point reactions.

The moment, at node 2, comes from the Beam Element Loads Table.

Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Results

Item Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Axial reaction 8 980.47 8 949.71
Shear reaction 7 755.86 7 729.66
Moment reaction 7 837 50. 781 152.
Moment at Node 2 1 077 656. 1 073 970.
Input File :

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 5

UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 0 0 ; 2 240 0 0 ; 3 240 240 0 ; 4 480 240 0
MEMB INCI
112;223;334
MEMB PROP
1 TO 3 PRIS AX 30.5 IX 950.0 IY 475.0 IZ 475.0
CONST
E 26.4E6 ALL
ALPHA 7.26744E-6 ALL
SUPPORT
1 4 FIXED
LOAD 1
TEMP LOAD
1 2 3 TEMP 430.0
PERF ANALY
PRINT SUPP REAC
PRINT MEMB FORCE
FINI
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 6

Type: Imposed Deflections On Beam.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: Norris, C.H., and Wilbur, J.B., “Elementary Structural Analysis”, Second Edition,
McGraw-Hill, 1960, Example 13.20, page 442.

Problem: A beam which is supported at three points (nodes 1, 2 and 3) has imposed translations
specified at each of these points. Additionally, an imposed rotation is specified at node 1.
There are no external loads applied to the structure. The static response of the structure
due to these imposed deflections and rotation is calculated.
Model

Four nodes and three beam elements are used for this model. The imposed deflections and rotations are:

Node 1: X2 = -.12 inches, X6 = -.001 radians

Node 2: X2 = -.48 inches
Node 3: X2 = -.21 inches

Theoretical Results

Numerical answers are presented for four items, in the above Reference. They are:

(a) The slope at the center support of -.0007 radians.

(b) The slope at the right-hand support of .0026 radians
(c) A bending moment, at the left-hand built-in support, of 3.15 x 106 inch pounds.
(d) A bending moment, at the center support, of 3.3 x 106 inch pounds.

Both the rotation angle and the moment sign conventions are reversed between the Reference and
STAAD.PRO. Therefore, the algebraic sign on the above four results have been reversed. Also, the units
on the bending moments have been converted from kip feet to inch pounds.

STAAD.PRO Results

The elastic rotation angles, at the center support and the right-hand support, are obtained from the
Deflection Table appearing in the output:

Location Node Rotation in Radians

Center Support 2 -.0007
Right-Hand Support 3 .0026
The internal bending moments, for the beams, are listed in the Beam Element Loads Table:

Beam Number Node Moment (inch pounds)

1 1 3.15 x 106
1 2 3.30 x 106

Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Results

Item Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Rotation at Center Support -.0007 -.0007
Rotation at Right-Hand Support .0026 .0026
Moment at Left-Hand Support 3.15x106 3.15x106
Moment at Center Support 3.30x106 3.30x106

Input file

STAAD PLANE VER. PROB. 6

UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 0 0 ; 2 120 0 0; 3 300 0 0 ; 4 360 0 0
MEMB INCI
112;223;334
MEMB PROP
1 PRIS AX 1 IZ 1000.0
2 3 PRIS AX 1 IZ 3000.0
CONST
E 30.0E6 ALL
SUPP
1 FIXED
2 3 PINNED
LOAD 1
SUPP DISP LOAD
1 FY -0.12
* ROTATION HAS TO BE SPECIFIED IN DEGREES. (0.001 RADIANS = 0.057296 DEGREES)
1 MZ -0.057296
2 FY -0.48
3 FY -0.21
PERF ANALY
PRINT SUPP REAC
PRINT MEMB FORCE
PRINT JOINT DISP
FINI
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 7

Type: Natural Modes of a Simple Beam.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: Timoshenko, S., “Vibration Problems in Engineering”, Third Edition, D. Van Nostrand
Company, Inc., 1955, page 322

Problem: The first five natural frequencies and the associated mode shapes are computed for the
flexural motion of a simply supported beam. The HQR and LANCZOS solution methods
are both tested.
Model

The simply supported beam is divided into twenty spanwise beam elements. At nodes 1 and 21, all degrees
of freedom except the rotation about the X3 axis are restrained. For the remaining nodes, only the
translation along X2 and the rotation about X3 are permitted. Both shear deformation and rotary inertia
have been excluded from the model. The mass matrix is a diagonal matrix.

Cross-section Properties

Rectangular Section: 1inch Width x 2 inch Depth

Area = 2 square inches

b 3a ª16 b ª 1 § b · ºº
4

J= « − 3.36 «1 − ¨ ¸ » »
16 «¬ 3 a ¬« 12 © a ¹ ¼» »¼

where a = 2 and b = 1

J = 0.4578 inch4

1x 23
I2 = = 0.6667 inch4
12

2x13
I3 = = 0.1667 inch4
12
Theoretical Results

The natural bending frequencies, for a uniform beam with hinged ends, are given by:

πn 2 EIg
fn =
2l 2 Aγ

where
f n = natural frequency for mode n, in cycles per second
l = span of the beam
E = elastic modulus
I = cross-section moment of inertia
g = gravitational constant
A = cross-section area
γ = weight density

The parameters used in the frequency equation are:

l = 20 inches
E = 10x106psi
I = 0.6667 inches4
g = 386.4 inches per second2
A = 2.0 sq. inches
 γ = 0.1 pounds per cubic inch
from which:

f n = n 2 x 445.685674

The table below shows the natural frequencies computed from the theoretical equation and the HQR and
LANCZOS methods available within STAAD.PRO. Frequencies are in cycles per second.

Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Results

STAAD.PRO Frequencies
Mode Theoretical HQR LANCZOS
Number Frequency
1 445.686 445.685 445.685
2 1782.74 1782.73 1782.73
3 4011.17 4011.03 4 011.03
4 7130.97 7130.12 7130.12
5 11142.1 11138.7 11138.7

Input file:

STAAD PLANE VER. PROB. 7

UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 0 0 21 20 0 0
MEMB INCI
1 1 2 20
MEMB PROP
1 TO 20 PRIS AX 2 IZ 0.6667
CONST
E 10E6 ALL
POISSON 0.3 ALL
DENS 0.1 ALL
CUT OFF MODE SHAPE 5
SUPP
1 21 FIXED BUT MZ
2 TO 20 FIXED BUT FY MZ
LOAD 1
SELF X 1.0
SELF Y 1.0
MODAL CALC REQ
PERF ANALY
FINISH
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 8

Problem: Natural Frequencies Of A Circular Plate

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: Blevins, Robert D., “Formulas for Natural Frequency and Mode Shape,” Van Nostrand
Reinhold Company, 1979, Page 240.

Problem: A flat circular plate is simply supported around the entire perimeter. The first six modes
and their associated natural frequencies are to be computed using the HQR method
offered by STAAD.PRO. This problem demonstrates that the natural frequencies of an
axi-symmetric structure can be accurately computed utilizing a 180 degree model with the
appropriate boundary conditions.

Note : While analyzing this model using the “STARDYNE Advanced Analysis” option, the
following settings have to be chosen :

STARDYNE Element Type :

Quadrilateral – Thin
Triangular – Thin

STARDYNE Analysis Type :

Analysis Type : Linear Static/Dynamic Analysis
Modal Extraction : HQR
Model

The 180 degree sector was modeled using radial lines at intervals of 15 degrees. Tangential lines were then
located utilizing a relationship such that the aspect ratio of the quad-plate elements was approximately 1.0.
All rotations normal to the plane of the plate were restrained. In-plane translations for all nodes were
restrained because the theoretical solution does not consider in-plane effects. Rotations about the global X2
axis for the nodes at X1=0.0 were restrained because this is a symmetry boundary. X3 translation of all
nodes on the outside radius were restrained to provide for the simply-supported condition. Quad-plate
elements with only bending and transverse stiffness (STAAD.PRO Element Type = Thin) were used
because of the conditions on the theoretical solution noted above. Likewise, tri-plate elements with only
bending and transverse stiffness were used to model the inner elements.

It should be noted that the outside edge of the plate is a series of secant lines instead of a true arc. This will
result in a loss of about 1% of the plate’s true mass or about .5% of the mass that is effective for this
problem.

Therefore, it is not unlikely that a few natural frequencies will be lower than the theoretical values instead
of higher which is typical for a finite element analysis using plate elements. In addition, a true simple-
support condition for this problem would require restraining the component of rotation that is radial to the
outside edge.

Theoretical Answers

From the reference case 2 in Table 11-1, the first six natural frequencies of the plate are described by the
following equation:

1/ 2
λ2ij § Eh 3 ·
fij = ¨ ¸
2 ¨
(
2πa © 12 γ 1 − ν ¹ )
2 ¸

λ2ij = dimensionless parameter associated with the mode indices i,j

i = number of nodal diameters in this mode shape
 j = number of nodal circles in this mode shape not counting the boundary
ν = Poisson’s ratio
E = Elastic Modulus
h = plate thickness
γ = mass of plate per unit area
a = radius of plate

The numerical values used for this example are:

ν = 0.30
E = 10.0x106 psi
h = 0.10 inches

γ=
(0.10lb / in 3 (0.10in )
m ) = 2.588x10 −5 lb f − s 2 / in 3
( 386.4lb m − in / lb f − s 2 )
a = 10.0 inches

with the numerical values used above

1 § Eh 3
¨
·
1/ 2

¸¸ =
1 §
¨
( )
10.0x106 (0.10)
3 1/ 2
·
¸ = 9.467 cycles/sec
(
2πa 2 ¨© 12γ 1 − ν 2 ) ¹ ( )(
2π(10.0) ¨© 12 2.588x10 −5 1 − (0.3)
2 2
) ¸
¹
λ2ij is tabulated from the reference as follows:

Mode λ2ij Number of Nodal Number of

Number Diameters (i) Nodal Circles
(j)
1 4.977 0 0
2 13.94 1 0
3 25.65 2 0
4 29.76 0 1
5(l) 3 0
6 48.51 1 1

(l) not tabulated in the reference

 Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Answers

Mode Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Number Frequency (Hz) Frequency (Hz)
1 47.12 46.31
2 132.0 130.5
3 242.8 241.5
4 281.7 282.1
5* 379.0
6 459.3 463.5

*The reference did not tabulate a value of λ2ij for the fifth mode of the structure, hence a comparison with
the theoretical value of this mode cannot be made.

Discussion

All anti-symmetric mode shapes for the 360 degree circular plate were captured by the 180 degree model
with a phase angle included in the calculation. Some of the difference between the theoretical and
STAAD.PRO frequencies is attributed to the loss of mass due to the piecewise secant representation of the
outer radius and, since this mass is about 1 percent lower than for a true circular plate, it is not surprising
that the first few modes are lower than the theoretical solution.
Input file

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 8

* NATURAL FREQUENCIES OF A CIRCULAR PLATE
UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD CYLINDRICAL
1 1 -90 0 13 1 90 0
REP 2 1.244 0 0
REP 1 1.051 0 0
REP 1 1.367 0 0
REP 1 1.779 0 0
REP 1 2.315 0 0
JOINT COORD
1000 0 0 0
ELEM INCI
1 1000 1 2 ; 2 1000 2 3 ; 3 1000 3 4 ; 4 1000 4 5 ; 5 1000 5 6
6 1000 6 7 ; 7 1000 7 8 ; 8 1000 8 9 ; 9 1000 9 10 ; 10 1000 10 11
11 1000 11 12 ; 12 1000 12 13
13 1 14 15 2 TO 24
REP 5 12 13
ELEM PROP
1 TO 84 TH 0.1
CONST
E 10.0E6 ALL
POISS 0.3 ALL
DENS 0.1 ALL
SUPP
* CENTRE OF CIRCLE
1000 FIXED BUT FZ MX
* INTERIOR NODES
2 TO 12 15 TO 25 28 TO 38 41 TO 51 54 TO 64 -
67 TO 77 FIXED BUT FZ MX MY
* NODES ALONG CIRCUMFERENCE
79 TO 91 FIXED BUT MX MY
* NODES ALONG DIAMETER EXCEPT THE TWO AT THE ENDS OF THE DIAMETER.
1 TO 66 BY 13 13 TO 78 BY 13 FIXED BUT FZ MX
LOAD 1
SELF X 1.0
SELF Y 1.0
SELF Z 1.0
MODAL CALC REQ
PERF ANALY
PLOT MODE FILE
FINI
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 9

Type: Natural Frequencies Of A Rectangular Plate.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: Blevins, Robert D., ”Formulas for Natural Frequency and Mode Shape,” Van Nostrand
Reinhold Company, 1979, page 258.

Problem: A flat rectangular plate is simply supported on all four sides. The first six modes and
their associated natural frequencies are to be computed for this structure using the
LANCZOS method offered by STAAD.PRO. This problem also demonstrates that the
mesh refinement can be chosen to accurately calculate modes of interest based on the
expected mode shapes.

All dimensions are in inches.

Note : While analyzing this model using the “STARDYNE Advanced Analysis” option, the
following settings have to be chosen :

STARDYNE Element Type :

Quadrilateral – Thin

STARDYNE Analysis Type :

Analysis Type : Linear Static/Dynamic Analysis
Modal Extraction : LANCZOS
Model

A plate with an aspect ratio of 1.5 was used so that comparison could be made with theoretical results
tabulated for plates in the reference. An equally spaced mesh was utilized in both the x and the y dimensions
of the plate. The number of elements in each dimension was determined on the basis of the highest mode of
interest. Since the number of half-waves in the sixth mode is 3 in the length dimension and 2 in the width
dimension, a node spacing of 3.75 inches results in each half- wave being represented by four elements
which means that no element will be expected to deform in double curvature. The simply supported edge
condition requires that translation normal to the plane of the plate be restrained for these edge nodes.
Rotations normal to the plate were restrained for all nodes.

Theoretical Answers

From the reference case 16 in Table 11-4, the first six natural frequencies of the plate are described by the
following equations:

1/ 2
λij 2 § Eh 3 ·
fij = ¨ ¸¸
(
2πa 2 ¨© 12 γ 1 − ν 2 ) ¹
λ2ij = dimensionless parameter associated with the mode indices i, j
i = number of half-waves in this mode shape along the horizontal axis
j = number of half-waves in this mode shape along the vertical axis
υ = Poisson’s ratio
E = elastic modulus
h = plate thickness
γ = mass of material per unit area
a = length of plate
b = width of plate

The numerical values used for this example are:

υ = 0.30
E =30.0x106 psi
h=0.2 inches

γ=
(0.282lb m )
/ in 3 (0.20in )
= 1.460x10 − 4 lb f − s 2 / in 3
(386.4lb m − in / lb f − s 2
)
a = 45.0 inches
b = 30.0 inches

with the numerical values used above

1 §
¨¨
Eh 3 ·
¸¸
1/ 2

=
1 §
¨
( )
30.0x10 6 (0.20)
3
·
¸
1/ 2

= 0.9644cycles / sec
2πa 2 (
© 12γ 1 − ν
2
) ¹ 2π(45.0)
2
© ( )(
¨ 12 1.460x10 − 4 1 − (0.3)2 ) ¸
¹

λ2ij is tabulated from the reference as follows:

Mode λ2ij Number of Half-Waves in Number of Half-Waves in

Number
1 32.08
2 61.69
3 98.70
4 111.0
5 128.3
6 177.7
Length (i) Width (j)
1 1
2 1
1 2
3 1
2 2
3 2
 Comparison of Theoretical and STAAD.PRO Answers

Mode Number Theoretical Frequency STAAD.PRO Frequency

(Hz) (Hz)
1 30.94 31.01
2 59.49 59.78
3 95.18 95.45
4 107.1 107.7
5 123.7 124.9
6 171.3 173.9

Discussion

As was noted earlier, the node spacing was based on the highest mode of interest. It follows that the
difference between the theoretical and STAAD.PRO frequencies generally increases with increasing mode
sequence.
Input file

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 9.

* NATURAL FREQUENCIES OF A RECTANGULAR PLATE
UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 0 0 13 45 0 0
REP ALL 8 0 3.75 0
ELEM INCI
1 1 2 15 14 TO 12
REP 7 12 13
ELEM PROP
1 TO 96 TH 0.2
CONST
E 30.0E6 ALL
DENS 0.282 ALL
POISSON 0.3 ALL
CUT OFF MODE SHAPE 6
SUPPORT

* CORNER NODES
1 13 105 117 FIXED BUT MX MY

* NODES ALONG Y=0 AND Y=30

2 TO 12 106 TO 116 FIXED BUT MX MY

* NODES ALONG X=0

14 TO 92 BY 13 FIXED BUT MX MY

* NODES ALONG X=45

26 TO 104 BY 13 FIXED BUT MX MY

* INTERIOR NODES
15 TO 25 28 TO 38 41 TO 51 54 TO 64 67 TO 77 80 TO 90 -
93 TO 103 FIXED BUT FZ MX MY

LOAD 1
SELF X 1
SELF Y 1
SELF Z 1
MODAL CALC REQ
PERF ANALY
PLOT MODE FILE
FINI
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 10

Type: Natural Modes Of A Framework.

Purpose: Compare the results from STAAD.PRO's Householder-QR method with the results from
EASE2 and ANSYS.

Reference: 1. Problem 1, from the ASME 1972 Program Verification and Qualification Library
2. DeSalvo, G.J., and Swanson, J.A., “ANSYS Engineering Analysis System Examples
Manual”, Swanson Analysis Systems, Inc., 1979, Example Problem No. 2.
3. Peterson, F.E., “EASE2 Elastic Analysis for Structural Engineering Example Problem
Manual”, Engineering Analysis Corporation, 1981, Example 2.03.

Problem: A three dimensional frame is analyzed for its natural frequencies and the associated mode
shapes using the HQR method offered by STAAD.PRO.

All dimensions are in inches.

Model

The only element present in the model is the general purpose three dimensional beam.

Cross-section Properties

All the beam elements have the same cross section :

Outside radius, Ro = 1.1875 inches

Inside radius, Ri = 1.0335 inches

( )
Area = π Ro 2 − Ri 2 = 1.074532 square inches

π 4
Moment of Inertia, I=
4
(Ro − Ri 4 )
I = 0.665747 in4

Torsion constant = twice the inertia, for closed circular sections = 1.331494 in4

The expression for the shear flexibility factor is derived from the ratio of maximum shear stress to the
average shear stress :

AQ
α=
Ib
Where the four items – A, Q, I, and b are properties of the half cross-section about the centerline. For the
circular section they are :

Area = A=
1
2
(
π Ro 2 − Ri 2 )

Q=
2 3
3
(
Ro − Ri 3 )
π 4
I=
8
(
Ro − Ri 4 )
b = 2(Ro − Ri )

The final expression for the shear flexibility factor, for a circular tube section is :

AQ 4 Ro 3 − Ri 3
α= =
(
Ib 3 Ro 2 + Ri 2 (Ro − Ri ) )
α = 1.993620

Hence the shear area is entered as

AY = Cross Section Area / α = 1.074532 / 1.99362 = 0.538985 sq.in

Comparison of Twenty-Four Natural Frequencies

Mode Natural Frequency, Cycles per second

Number
EASE2 ANSYS STAAD.PRO
1 111.53 111.52 111.28
2 115.96 115.95 115.85
3 137.61 137.60 137.22
4 218.03 218.02 215.89
5 404.23 404.23 404.43
6 422.72 422.70 422.81
7 451.75 451.72 451.78
8 554.07 553.99 549.23
9 735.81 735.70 733.88
10 762.44 762.32 758.87
11 852.72 852.57 851.70
12 894.26 894.08 892.64
13 910.40 910.21 893.42
14 917.18 916.98 911.20
15 940.02 940.02 932.66
16 960.27 959.98 956.78
17 971.44 971.15 964.40
18 977.22 976.92 967.66
19 1012.5 1012.2 981.93
20 1028.8 1028.4 1009.66
21 1123.9 1123.6 1070.99
22 1134.9 1134.5 1123.61
23 1164.4 1164.1 1149.83
24 1217.2 1216.7 1200.37

Discussion

In both the References, the number of dynamic degrees of freedom has been reduced from 42 to 24, by
means of the Guyan method. No such reduction is performed in the STAAD.PRO model.
Input File

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 10

* NATURAL FREQUENCIES OF A SPACE FRAME
UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 0 0 ; 2 27.25 0 0
3 0 10 0 ; 4 27.25 10 0
5 0 18.625 0 ; 6 8.625 18.625 0 ; 7 18.625 18.625 0 ; 8 27.25 18.625 0

9 0 18.625 8.625 ; 10 27.25 18.625 8.625

11 0 0 17.25 ; 12 27.25 0 17.25

13 0 10 17.25 ; 14 27.25 10 17.25
15 0 18.625 17.25 ; 16 8.625 18.625 17.25
17 18.625 18.625 17.25 ; 18 27.25 18.625 17.25

MEMB INCI
113;224;335;448
5567

8 5 9 ; 9 8 10 ; 10 9 15 ; 11 10 18

12 11 13 ; 13 12 14 ; 14 13 15 ; 15 14 18
16 15 16 ; 17 16 17 ; 18 17 18

MEMB PROP
1 TO 18 PRIS AX 1.074532 IZ 0.665747 IY 0.665747 IX 1.331494 -
AY 0.538985 AZ 0.538985

CONST
E 27.9E6 ALL
POISS 0.3 ALL
CUT OFF MODE SHAPE 6

SUPPORT
1 2 11 12 FIXED

LOAD 1
JOINT LOAD
3 4 13 14 FX 3.4517 FY 3.4517 FZ 3.4517
6 7 16 17 FX 3.4517 FY 3.4517 FZ 3.4517
9 10 FX 3.4517 FY 3.4517 FZ 3.4517
5 8 15 18 FX 9.7973 FY 9.7973 FZ 9.7973

MODAL CALC REQ

PERF ANALY
PLOT MODE FILE
FINI
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 11

Type: Response Of A Simply Supported Beam To A Shock Spectrum.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: 1. Biggs, John M., “Introduction to Structural Dynamics,” McGraw Hill, 1964, pp. 256-
263
2. Blevins, Robert D.,“ Formulas for Natural Frequency and Mode Shape,” Van
Nostrand-Reinhold, 1979.

Problem: The supports of a simply supported beam are subjected to an acceleration time history.
The maximum bending moment in the beam is computed for the first mode of the
structure. This problem demonstrates the capabilities of STAAD.PRO to calculate the
correct modal response of a structure utilizing response spectrum data.
Model

The STAAD.PRO model consists of 11 nodes and 10 elastic beam elements. Node 1 is completely
restrained with the exception of having rotational freedom in the X3 direction, the remaining nodes are
restrained except for X1 and X2 displacements and X3 rotations. Node 11 is additionally restrained against
displacements in the X2 direction to provide for the simple support condition . Only the contribution of the
first mode of the structure is considered.

x2

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 x1

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

10 @ 24.0 inches

Theoretical Solution

Material Properties:

l = 240.0 inches
6 2
E = 30 x 10 lb/in
10 2
EI = 1.0 x 10 lb-in
2 2
m = 0.2 lb-sec / in
h = 14.0 inches

From Reference 2, Table 8-1, page 108, the fundamental frequency of the beam is:

1/ 2 1/ 2
λ12 § EI · 9.869 § 1.0 x1010 ·
f1 = ¨ ¸ = ¨ ¸ = 6.098hz
2π(240 ) ¨© 0.2 ¸¹
2
2πl 2 © m ¹

The modal participation factor for the fundamental mode is:

³ mφ(x )dx
Γ= l
0

³ mφ (x )dx
2

0
 πx
Where φ(x) is the first mode shape = sin
l
l
πx
m ³ sin dx
l
Γ= l
0

πx
m ³ sin 2 dx
0
l
4
Γ=
π
The maximum relative modal displacement is given by:

A max = Γu o max

where:
..
y
u o max = so2 (DLF) max where
ω

ω = 2π * 6.098Hz
..
y so = 1.0g and

(DLF)max = 1.648 at 6.098 Hz

therefore:

4(1.648)(386.4 )
A max = = 0.5523 inches
π(2π) (6.098)
2 2

δ2u
The bending moment M = − EI
δx 2
πx
Where u for the first mode = A sin
l
2 2
δu π πx
2
= − 2 A sin
δx l l
2
π πx
M = AEI 2 sin
l l
π2
M max = A max EI 2 at x=l/2
l

M max =
(1X10 )π (0.5523) = 946.351x10 lb − in
10 2
3
2
240
 Comparison of STAAD.PRO and Theoretical Answers

Bending Moment (kip-inch)

Theoretical STAAD.PRO (Beam 5)
946.351 946.325

Input File :

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 11

* RESPONSE OF A SIMPLY SUPPORTED BEAM TO A SHOCK SPECTRUM
UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 0 0 11 240 0 0
MEMB INCI
1 1 2 10
MEMB PROP
1 TO 10 PRIS YD 14.0 ZD 1.45777 AX 20.4082 IX 40.0 IY 3.6139 IZ 333.333
CONST
E 30.0E6 ALL
POISS 0.3 ALL
DENS 3.78672 ALL
CUT OFF MODE SHAPE 1
SUPPORT
1 FIXED BUT MZ
2 TO 10 FIXED BUT FX FY MZ
11 FIXED BUT FX MZ
LOAD 1
SELF X 1.0
SELF Y 1.0
SPECTRUM SRSS Y 1.0 ACC DAMP 0.001 SCALE 386.4
0.15 1.648 ; 0.17 1.648
PERF ANALY
PRINT MEMB FORCE LIST 5
FINI
 STAAD.PRO Verification Problem No. 12

Type: Thermal loading on a Simply supported Rectangular Plate.

Purpose: Compare theoretical answers to the STAAD.PRO solution.

Reference: Timoshenko, S., and Woinowsky-Krieger, S., “Theory of Plates and Shells”, Second
Edition, McGraw-Hill, 1959, pages 162 - 165.

Problem: A rectangular plate is simply supported on all four sides. The transverse and longitudinal
bending moments as well as the deflections at several points on the plate are computed.

All dimensions are in inches

Model

The plate is modeled using 1 in. X 1 in. size elements. At the corner nodes, all the degrees of freedom are
considered restrained. For the nodes along the four edges, rotation is permitted about that edge.
Theoretical Solution

From the Reference, equation (j), the expression for deflection normal to the plate surface is

mπx § mπy ·
sin ¨ cosh ¸
αt (1 + ν )4a 2 ∞
a ¨1 − a ¸
w=−
π3 h
¦
m =1, 3, 5,... m3 ¨ cosh α m ¸
¨ ¸
© ¹
mπb
where αm =
2a

From the Reference, equation (k), the expressions for bending moment per unit width are

mπx mπy
(
4Dαt 1 − ν 2
) ∞ sin
a
cosh
a
Mx =
πh
¦
m=1, 3, 5 ,... m cosh α m

mπx mπy
( )
αt 1 − ν 2 D 4Dαt 1 − ν 2 ( ) ∞ sin
a
cosh
a
My =
h
−
πh
¦
m=1, 3, 5 ,... m cosh α m

where

α = Coefficient of Thermal Expansion

t= Difference between the temperatures of the upper and lower surfaces of the plate
ν = Poisson’s ratio
h=Plate thickness
a=Dimension of the plate along the x1 axis
b=Dimension of the plate along the x2 axis
E=Elastic Modulus
Eh 3
D=
(
12 1 − ν 2 )
The numerical values used for this example are:

α = 12.0E-06 / oF
t = 450o F
ν = 0.3
h = 0.3in.
a = 12in.
b = 16 in.
E=10.0E6 psi
Comparison of STAAD.PRO and Theoretical Answers

Deflections along X=6

Node X Y Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Number Deflection (in) Deflection (in)
7 6 -8 0.00 0.00
20 6 -7 0.0897 0.0895
33 6 -6 0.1597 0.1593
46 6 -5 0.2132 0.2126
59 6 -4 0.2531 0.2525
72 6 -3 0.2818 0.2811
85 6 -2 0.3011 0.3004
98 6 -1 0.3122 0.3115
111 6 0 0.3158 0.3151
124 6 1 0.3122 0.3115

Deflections along Y=1

Node X Y Theoretical STAAD.PRO

Number Deflection (in) Deflection (in)
118 0 1 0 0
119 1 1 0.1004 0.1002
120 2 1 0.1794 0.1790
121 3 1 0.2387 0.2382
122 4 1 0.2799 0.2793
123 5 1 0.3042 0.3035
124 6 1 0.3122 0.3115
125 7 1 0.3042 0.3035
126 8 1 0.2799 0.2793
127 9 1 0.2387 0.2382
128 10 1 0.1794 0.1790
129 11 1 0.1004 0.1002
130 12 1 0 0
 Bending Moments along Y=0.5

Element X Y Theoretical Moment STAAD.PRO Moment

Number (Pound-in/in) (Pound-in/in)
Mx My Mx My
97 0.5 0.5 16.74 388.26 16.96 388.30
98 1.5 0.5 48.93 356.07 49.54 356.10
99 2.5 0.5 77.45 327.55 78.33 327.70
100 3.5 0.5 100.36 304.64 101.40 304.90
101 4.5 0.5 116.31 288.69 117.40 289.00
102 5.5 0.5 124.47 280.54 125.60 280.90
103 6.5 0.5 124.47 280.54 125.60 280.90
104 7.5 0.5 116.31 288.69 117.40 289.00
105 8.5 0.5 100.36 304.64 101.40 304.90
106 9.5 0.5 77.45 327.55 78.33 327.70
107 10.5 0.5 48.93 356.07 49.54 356.10
108 11.5 0.5 16.74 388.26 16.96 388.30

Bending Moments along X=5.5

Element X Y Theoretical Moment STAAD.PRO Moment

Number (Pound-in/in) (Pound-in/in)
Mx My Mx My
6 5.5 -7.5 373.88 31.12 373.10 32.38
18 5.5 -6.5 311.64 93.36 311.70 94.49
30 5.5 -5.5 256.83 148.17 257.10 149.50
42 5.5 -4.5 211.14 193.87 211.70 195.10
54 5.5 -3.5 175.41 229.60 176.20 230.60
66 5.5 -2.5 149.47 255.53 150.50 256.20
78 5.5 -1.5 132.68 272.32 133.70 272.80
90 5.5 -0.5 124.47 280.54 125.60 280.90
102 5.5 0.5 124.47 280.54 125.60 280.90
114 5.5 1.5 132.68 272.32 133.70 272.80
126 5.5 2.5 149.47 255.53 150.50 256.20
138 5.5 3.5 175.41 229.59 176.20 230.60
150 5.5 4.5 211.14 193.87 211.70 195.10
162 5.5 5.5 256.83 148.17 257.10 149.50
Input File :

STAAD SPACE VER. PROB. 12

* THERMAL LOADING ON A RECTANGULAR PLATE.
UNIT POUND INCH
JOINT COORD
1 0 -8 0 13 12 -8 0
REP 16 0 1 0
ELEM INCI
1 1 2 15 14 TO 12
REP 15 12 13
ELEM PROP
1 TO 192 TH 0.3
CONST
E 10.0E6 ALL
POISS 0.3 ALL
ALPHA 12.0E-6 ALL
SUPP
1 13 209 221 FIXED
2 TO 12 210 TO 220 FIXED BUT MX
14 TO 196 BY 13 26 TO 208 BY 13 FIXED BUT MY
LOAD 1
TEMP LOAD
1 TO 192 TEMP 0 450
PERF ANALY
PRINT JOINT DISP LIST 119 TO 129 7 TO 215 BY 13
PRINT ELEM FORCE LIST 97 TO 108 6 TO 186 BY 12
FINI