Evaluation of accuracy and reliability of structural analysis and steel design software

The accuracy and reliability of three structural analysis and design programs were evaluated. The three programs considered were MicasPlus, STAAD III, and GTSTRUDL. Nine different test cases of three basic steel space frames were analyzed and designed using the programs. The nine cases were formed by modifying different modeling, analysis, and design parameters. Comparison of results obtained from the programs for each case was presented. It was found that the percentage differences in the analysis results obtained from the programs were typically less than five percent. For steel design, both MicasPlus and GTSTRUDL gave member sizes that were very close. It was also found that changing modeling parameters can have a significant effect on analysis results. This confirms the importance of accurate structural modeling.

The functionality and usability of the three programs were also evaluated. After an extensive study of MicasPlus a list of suggested modifications and additions to the program was presented.