API RP 2A-LRFD Connections (2019)

API RP 2A-LRFD (2019) checks the strength of tubular joints (connections) according to the connections chapter of the standard (2^nd Edition, November 2019).

To add the standard execute Standards - Main - API - API RP 2A-LRFD Connections (2019) from the ribbon:

Press to Set Standard Custom Settings

Connection Checks are calculated on Connections. With the help of Connection Finder tool, it is possible to automatically recognize Chords and Braces with their dimensions.

By default, all supported Connections are included in the selection but it can be changed by pressing . If connections were not recognized press to run Connection Finder tool.

Standard uses material data (Yield/Tensile) in calculations. Wizard checks if the values are defined for all materials.

Constants

Constants are set to the Standard default values and normally do not need to be changed:

• Gamma_Rj - the partial resistance factor for tubular joints. Default value is 1;
• C_x - coefficient used in the joint strength formulation. Default value is 0.3.

Options

Brace Type Method - use brace type of the selected method calculated by Brace Classification Tool (e.g. Total Force). The selected classification determines whether each brace is treated as K, TY or Cross in the joint strength calculation;

Is Load Transfer defines the braces for which chapter 14.3.5 (Y- and X-joints with chord cans) is applied. When set to Yes and the chord contains a can, the joint representative axial strength is calculated accounting for the chord can length;

According to the calculation procedure, Beam Length and Length Factor for Y and Z direction are required. Data from Beam Member Finder is used automatically to define characteristics KL Y and KL Z. If beam members are not recognized press .

KL Y - effective length factor (K) multiplied by the unbraced length (L) in the brace local Y direction (in-plane), used in 13.2-7, Section 13.2.3.2;

KL Z - effective length factor (K) multiplied by the unbraced length (L) in the brace local Z direction (out-of-plane), used in 13.2-7, Section 13.2.3.2;

Critical Joints - Critical joints are checked for axial loads with the 50% of braces capacity. Sections 14.2.3 and A.14.2.3.