STAAD Foundation Advanced Manual PDF

STAAD Foundation Advanced
V8i
User Manual
DAA039840-1/0001
Last updated: 3 November 2011
Copyright Information
Trademark Notice
Bentley, the "B" Bentley logo, STAAD Foundation are registered or
nonregistered trademarks of Bentley Sytems, Inc. or Bentley Software, Inc. All
other marks are the property of their respective owners.
Copyright Notice
© 2011, Bentley Systems, Incorporated. All Rights Reserved.
Including software, file formats, and audiovisual displays; may only be used
pursuant to applicable software license agreement; contains confidential and
proprietary information of Bentley Systems, Incorporated and/or third parties
which is protected by copyright and trade secret law and may not be provided
or otherwise made available without proper authorization.
Acknowledgments
Windows, Vista, SQL Server, MSDE, .NET, DirectX are registered trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation.
Adobe, the Adobe logo, Acrobat, the Acrobat logo are registered trademarks of
Adobe Systems Incorporated.
Restricted Rights Legends

If this software is acquired for or on behalf of the United States of America, its
agencies and/or instrumentalities ("U.S. Government"), it is provided with
restricted rights. This software and accompanying documentation are
"commercial computer software" and "commercial computer software
documentation," respectively, pursuant to 48 C.F.R. 12.212 and 227.7202, and
"restricted computer software" pursuant to 48 C.F.R. 52.227-19(a), as
applicable. Use, modification, reproduction, release, performance, display or
disclosure of this software and accompanying documentation by the U.S.
Government are subject to restrictions as set forth in this Agreement and
pursuant to 48 C.F.R. 12.212, 52.227-19, 227.7202, and 1852.227-86, as
applicable. Contractor/Manufacturer is Bentley Systems, Incorporated, 685
Stockton Drive, Exton, PA 19341- 0678.
Unpublished - rights reserved under the Copyright Laws of the United States
and International treaties.
End User License Agreements
User Manual — i
To view the End User License Agreement for this product, review: eula_
en.pdf.
ii — STAAD Foundation
Table of Contents
What's New 1
Section 1 Getting Started 7
1.1 Welcome 7
1.2 Fundamentals 8
1.3 Application Window Layout 15
Section 2 General Foundations 71
2.1 Introduction 71
2.2 Global Data 72
2.3 Job Setup group 112
2.4 Local Data 117
2.5 Grouping Foundation Designs 216
Section 3 Plant Foundations 217
3.1 Introduction 217
3.2 Starting a new plant setup job 217
3.3 Vertical Vessel Foundation 219
3.4 Heat Exchanger Foundation 239
3.5 Tank Foundation 259
3.6 Drilled/Driven Pier Foundation 275
Section 4 Foundation Toolkit 287
4.1 Introduction 287
4.2 Starting a new foundation toolkit project 287
4.3 Isolated/Block Foundation 290
4.4 Combined Footing 301
4.5 Dead Man Anchor Guy Foundation 311
4.6 Drilled Pier 317
4.7 Pile Cap 326
4.8 Ribbed Beam Footing 338
Section 5 Creating Reports and Drawings 351
5.1 Creating Detailed Calculations Sheets 351
User Manual — iii

5.2 Create Drawing Files for use with CAD software 352
Section 6 Integration with External Programs 355
6.1 Working with STAAD.Pro 355
6.2 Working with spreadsheet programs 357
6.3 Working with Neutral Files 364
Section 7 Quick Tour 367
7.1 Isolated Footing Example 367
7.2 Mat Foundation Example 378
7.3 Pile Cap Example 396
7.4 Strip Footing Example 402
7.5 Conclusion 407
Section 8 Technical Reference 409
8.1 Introduction to Finite Element Analysis 409
8.2 Element Load Specification 410
8.3 Theoretical Basis 410
8.4 Element Local Coordinate System 411
8.5 Output of Element Forces 412
8.6 Sign Convention of Element Forces 413
8.7 STAAD Foundation Program Theory 416
8.8 Isolated (Spread) Footing Theory 417
8.9 Pile Cap Theory 423
8.10 Mat (Raft) Foundation Theory 427
8.11 Combined (Strip) Footing Theory 430
8.12 Driller Pier Theory (Axial Load Analysis) 431
8.13 Pedestal Theory 436
8.14 Calculation of Loads 437
8.15 Crack Width Calculation 441
8.16 Strap Footing Design 442
8.17 Tank Foundation Design 442
8.18 Drilled Pier Lateral Analysis Theory 445
iv — STAAD Foundation
What's New
The Software Release Report for STAAD Foundation Advanced V8i contains
detailed information on new features and enhancements made to the product.
Thank you for your purchase of a STAAD Foundation Advanced V8i license!
This new product is built upon the previous STAAD.foundation program but
includes powerful new features and an improved user interface. The name
change represents the extended feature set available in the program in
comparison to the limited foundation design capabilities which are available
with a license of STAAD.Pro V8i.
Whether you are new to STAAD Foundation or have used STAAD.foundation in
the past, then we suggest you spend some time reading this document and
trying some of the examples in order to familiarize yourself with the program.
Even if you've used previous versions STAAD.foundation before, we feel that
you'll benefit from learning the new user interface.
The following list provides describes new features for users of STAAD
Foundation (the previous version of this product).
General Program Features

The following features have been added to the program as general features:
Ribbon interface
The user interface has been updated with a new tabbed toolbar set—often
referred to as a Ribbon—similar to that found in Microsoft Office 2007 and
later. This provides better organization of tools and features as well as exposes
many features which often hard to locate.
l File operations, such as creating new files, opening existing files, saving
files, and printing are included on the Application menu, which is
accessed by click the Application menu button located in the top-left
corner of the program window.
User Manual — 1
l All other tools are located on a series of Ribbon tabs, which are grouped
by feature.
l Commonly used tools can be added to the Quick Access toolbar, which is
visible from just below the Ribbon and remain the same regardless of
which Ribbon tab is selected.
Export of detailed output to Microsoft Office

Excel® spreadsheet file
You can now export detailed output to a Microsoft Office Excel® spreadsheet
file for the following types of general foundations:
l Isolated footings (US and Indian codes)

l Combined footings (US and Indian code)
l Strap foundations (US code Only)
l Octagonal foundations (US Code only)
From the Footing job branch in the Main Navigator pane, select the Detailed
Output option. A Windows Save As dialog opens to save the detailed design
information for each footing in the current job to an .XML file in the Excel
XML format, which can then be opened in Microsoft Office Excel.
2 — STAAD Foundation
What's New
Plant Mode
The following features have been added to the Plant foundation mode in
STAAD Foundation:
Tank Footing
A new parametric wizard has been added to parametrically model and design a
ring foundation supporting a tank vessel for US and Indian codes. Tank
foundation design complies to:
l ASCE 7
l ACI 318
l PIP (Process Industry Practices) STE03350
l Seismic loads per API 650, Section E
l IS 456 and IS 875 Part 3
User Manual — 3
Drilled/Driven Pier foundations
A new parametric wizard has been added to design drilled shaft or driven pier
foundations used to resist axial and lateral loads. The pier can have any
number of sections along its length and essentially any number of soil layers
can be modeled.
What's New
Group Horizontal Vessel Footings

The foundations at each end of a Heat Exchanger/Horizontal Vessel foundation
can be designed as identical. This option will then only allow input for the
"Left" Footing and design both foundations for the maximum requirements.
Simply set the Identical Footings option on the Footing Geometry page
when Isolated Footings are being designed.
Self Weight for Ultimate Loads

The option to include the foundation self weight for ultimate loads (concrete
design) under the Global Settings dialog box is now respected for Plant
foundation jobs as well as foundation jobs created under the General
foundation mode.
Simply click the Global Options tool found on the Home ribbon tab and set
the option.
General Mode
The following features have been added to the General foundation mode in
STAAD Foundation:
User Manual — 5
Octagonal Footing
An isolated, octagonal footing—similar to the option for the Vertical Vessel in
Plant mode—can be designed as a separate foundation job from the General
mode. Parameters similar to other isolated footings are entered via property
pane, as well as anchor bolt data for concrete design.
This foundation types can be selected when creating a new foundation job in
the General mode for US code design.
Strap Footing
A strap footing—similar to the option for Heat Exchanger/Horizontal Vessel
in Plant mode—can be designed as a separate foundation job in the General
mode. This foundation type consists of a grade beam between two isolated
footings. This single job analyzes the beam and footing system and designs
both elements.
This foundation types can be selected when creating a new foundation job in
the General mode for US code design.
Australian Code Modification

Several enhancements have been made to the design of foundations per the
Australian code:
l Strength reduction factor, φ, from table 2.3: one-way shear, punching

shear, and reinforcement
l Modified punching shear calculations per Sect. 9.2
l Refined minimum percent of steel
l A revised calculation sheet
Section 1
Getting Started
1.1 Welcome
Thank you for your purchase of STAAD Foundation Advanced V8i. STAAD
Foundation is an exhaustive analysis, design, and drafting solution for a variety
of foundations. These include general foundation types such as isolated,
combined footings, mat foundations, pile caps, slab on grade, octagonal, strap,
and slab on piles as well as plant foundation such as vertical vessel and heat
exchanger foundations. A part of the STAAD family of products, STAAD
Foundation can automatically import and update the geometry, loads, and
reactions from a STAAD.Pro model and then accurately design isolated, pile
cap, combined footing, mat, octagonal, and strap foundations and even perform
pile arrangements for a pile cap. Spreadsheet data (e.g., such as that in
Microsoft Office Excel®) can be copied and then pasted in STAAD Foundation,
increasing the efficiency and versatility of the program.
STAAD Foundation not only analyzes and designs a myriad of foundation
configurations, but will also produce production quality reports and detailed
3D rendering of your foundation structures. It also produces site-ready
construction documents such as: detail drawings, general arrangement
drawings, and schedule drawings. With full OpenGL graphics, engineers can
User Manual — 7
clearly see the displaced shape, stress distribution, reinforcement layout, and
force diagrams of their supporting structure. All models use physical objects
including physical beams, physical slabs, automatic meshing, load
distributions, and support generation. STAAD Foundation designs the physical
slabs rather than individual elements.
For mat foundation designs, STAAD Foundation utilizes a true finite element
design using the individual element stresses rather than using column strips.
STAAD Foundation can be used in a stand-alone mode or can be used in
conjunction with STAAD.Pro where the support reactions from the main
model and associated load cases are automatically brought in.
Because STAAD Foundation provides a total solution for your foundation
needs, a built-in project management system enables line and span of control,
revision records and multi-job functionalities. This helps you reduce cost in
assembling the technical and managerial information for your foundation. Full
step-by-step calculations are also provided in XML form to verify each and
every output provided by the program. These verification checks can be easily
shared with your clients for approval.
Also, the calculation sheets can be customized according user specification and
entire foundation reporting can be standardized.
We hope you enjoy your experience with STAAD Foundation. If you have any
questions or problems with the program, please visit our product page at
http://www.bentley.com/en-US/Products/Staad.foundation.
1.2 Fundamentals
1.2.1 Starting STAAD Foundation
There are several ways to initiate STAAD Foundation.
1. l In the program group, double-click the STAAD Foundation icon.
or
l From the Windows Start menu, select All Programs > Bentley
Engineering > STAAD Foundation Advanced V8i (Version
6.0) > STAAD Foundation 6.0 (default location).
Section 1 Getting Started
or
l In Windows Explorer, double-click an AFS file icon (with the file
extension .afs).
or
l Drag a AFS file icon from Windows Explorer and drop it on the
STAAD Foundation icon.
or
l In the Windows Explorer, double-click the icon for the file,
StaadFoundation.exe.
The STAAD Foundation window opens.
Hint: Whether you are a first time user of STAAD Foundation or if you're
familiar with STAAD.foundation (the previous product), we suggest that you
read through the Application Window Layout section to familiarize
yourself with the new user interface. You may also want to spend some
time working some of the included Examples.
Note: If you are using Windows Vista or Windows 7 operating systems, you
may have to run the program as an administrator. Right click on the
StaadFoundation.exe file and select Run as Administrator. Click Yes
in the message dialog.
1.2.2 Exiting STAAD Foundation

As you work, STAAD Foundation prompts you to save all changes you make to
the open STAAD Foundation project file to disk (assuming you have not turned
off the default Enable Auto Save tool on the Home ribbon tab). After you
close the STAAD Foundation project file, you can no longer undo changes with
STAAD Foundation's Undo feature. Therefore, be sure to undo any unwanted
changes to the STAAD Foundation project file before you exit.
1. l Click the application window's Close icon.
or
l Select Exit from the Application menu button.
or
l From the application window menu, choose Close.
User Manual — 9
1.2.3 Foundation Modes
STAAD Foundation can operation in three different modes, depending on the
type of foundation you want to model, analyze, and design. You will select one
of these modes when creating your project:
l General Foundation - Open modeling of common foundation types.

l Plant Foundation - Parametric modeling wizards for common foun-
dations used in plant environments.
l Foundation Toolkit - Parametric modeling wizards for common foun-
dation types.
1.2.4 Global and Local data

In STAAD Foundation, you start out by creating a Project to hold all your
physical information, such as column locations, loads, etc. This physical
information represents the structure that the foundation is intended to
support. Unless the design of the structure is modified, these physical
conditions generally remain constant throughout the life of the foundation
design project.
Your Project also contains Jobs, which are sets of constraints needed to tell
the program how to perform a foundation design. Each job contains the local
data for that specific foundation configuration. A job may represent separate
foundation type which coexist on the same structure, several different
foundation scenarios used to evaluate different solutions, or even different
stages of construction. It is a flexible system but one that allows you to
organize the project to meet your needs.
The current job being evaluated can be selected using the Active Job drop-
down found in the Standard Toolbar.
Note: STAAD Foundation consists of two sets of data, global and local.
Global data such as column reactions and column positions is shared
throughout a project among both similar and different jobs. Local data
such as design parameters is used only within a specific job type. For
example, an Isolated Footing job type has local data within the design
parameters group. A project may contain multiple jobs, making it easy for
you to evaluate different design scenarios for a given set of physical
conditions.
1.2.5 Document Conventions

A number of typographical conventions are maintained throughout Bentley
documentation, which makes it easier to identify and understand the
information presented.
Notes, Hints, and Warnings

Items of special note are indicated as follows:
Note: This is an item of general importance.
Hint: This is optional time-saving information.
Warning: This is information about actions that should not be

performed under normal operating conditions.
File Path/File Name.extension

A fixed width typeface is used to indicate file names, file paths, and file
extensions (e.g., C:/SProV8i/STAAD/Staadpro.exe)
Interface Control
A bold typeface is used to indicate user controls. Menu and sub-menu
items are indicated with a series of > characters to distinguish menu
levels. (e.g., File > Save As…).
User Input
A bold, fixed width typeface is used to indicate information which must
be manually entered. (e.g., Type DEAD LOAD as the title for Load Case 1).
STAAD Page Controls
A " | " character is used to represent the page control levels between
pages and sub-pages. (e.g., Select the Design | Steel page).
Terminology
l Click - This refers to the action of pressing a mouse button. When not spec-
ified, click means to press the left mouse button.
l Select - Synonymous with Click. Used when referring to an action in a
menu, drop-down list, list box, or other control where multiple options are
available to you.
l pop-up menu - A pop-up menu is displayed typically with a right-click of
the mouse on an item in the interface.
User Manual — 11
l Window - Describes an on screen element which may be manipulated
independently. Multiple windows may be open and interacted with simul-
taneously.
l Dialog - This is an on screen element which (typically) must be interacted
with before returning to the main window.
Mathematical Notation
Similar to spelling conventions, American mathematical notation is used
throughout the documentation. A serif typeface is typically used to clarify
numbers or letters which might otherwise appear similar.
l Numbers greater than 999 are written using a comma (,) to separate
every three digits. For example, the U.S. value of Young's Modulus is
taken as 29,000,000 psi.
Warning: Do not use commas or spaces to separate digits within a

number in a STAAD input file.
l Numbers with decimal fractions are written with a period to separate

whole and fraction parts. For example, a beam with a length of 21.75 feet.
l Multiplication is represented with a raised, or middle, dot (·). For exam-
ple, P = F·A.
l Operation separators are used in the following order:
1. parenthesis ( )
2. square brackets [ ]
3. curly brackets (i.e., braces) { }
For example, Fa = [1 - (Kl/r)2/(2·Cc2)]Fy / {5/3 + [3(Kl/r)/(8·Cc)] -
[(Kl/r)3/(8·Cc3)]}
1.2.6 Using Window Panes

The STAAD Foundation application window is split into multiple panes, each
of which may be moved, closed, or "floated" outside the main window.
To float a window pane
1. Click in the window pane title bar.

2. While holding the mouse button down, drag the pane away from its
docked location.
3. Release the mouse button to place the floated window.
Alternate method - To float a window pane
1. Right click in the window pane title bar.

2. Select Floating from the pop-up menu.
To dock a window pane
1. Click in the window pane title bar.

2. While holding the mouse button down, drag the pane towards the edge of
the application window or another docked window pane.
A number of dock location indicators appear across the window.
3. Drag the window title bar over one of the dock location indicators to high-
light where the window will be docked at.
4. Release the mouse button over one of the dock location indicators to dock
the window in that location.
Alternate method - To dock a window pane

2. Select Docked from the pop-up menu.
To close a window pane
1. Click the X located in the right side of the window pane title bar.
or
Select View > Toolbars > <Window pane name>.
User Manual — 13
The check box next to each entry indicates whether or not the window
pane is open.
Alternate method - To close a window pane

2. Select Hide from the pop-up menu.
Toggle auto hide for a docked window pane
1. Click the pushpin icon ( ) located in the right side of the window pane
title bar.
The docked window pane collapses into a tab attached the application
window edge it is docked into. Hovering the mouse pointer over this tab
expands the window pane for use. Once the mouse is clicked outside the
window pane, it will "auto hide" once again.
Note: Clicking the window pane tab will show the window pane
without pause.
2. Clicking the horizontal pushpin icon again will make the window pane
"sticky" (toggle off auto hide).
Alternate method - Toggle auto hide for a docked window pane

2. Select Auto Hide from the pop-up menu.
The check box next to each entry indicates whether or not the window
pane is in auto hide.
1.2.7 Graphical Input

You can use a mouse, digitizing tablet cursor, or similar pointing device with
STAAD Foundation to enter graphical input.
Using a scrolling mouse
If your mouse has a wheel, you can use the mouse wheel middle button and as
a wheel for scrolling to manipulate view windows. You can also use it to zoom
in and out of graphic window tabs. The middle button can be pressed and held
to place the mouse pointer into a pan mode (same as selecting the Pan tool
from the Trans Rotate toolbar)
Note: You must have the required drivers for your mouse already installed
on your system.
1.3 Application Window Layout

The STAAD Foundation application window is split into multiple panes,
each of which may be moved, closed, or "floated" outside the main window.
The STAAD Foundation window contains the following sections by default:
A. Application menu button

B. Quick Access Toolbar
C. Title Bar - displays the file name of the project that is currently open &
active
D. Ribbon - contains multiple menu items located at the top of the window.
Toolbars
E. Main Navigation pane
F. Tabbed View window
G. Data Input pane or Load pane
H. Output Pane
I. Status Bar - Provides prompts, context-sensitive assistance, and some inter-
active functionality.
User Manual — 15
1.3.1 Application button and menu
The first item in the Ribbon is the Application button (a STAAD Foundation
logo), which replaces the File menu found in many other Windows programs.
Clicking on the Application button displays the application menu, which
contains all of the file-level operations and program settings for the program.
From here, you can create new models, save, or close current ones, along with
similar file manipulations.
Table 1-1: File group tools
Keyboard
Tool What it does
Shortcut
Opens a standard Windows file <Ctrl+N>

open dialog box, which is used to
New specify a file location and name.
Keyboard
Tool What it does
Shortcut
Opens a standard Windows file

Open open dialog box, which is used to
select an existing STAAD Foun-
dation project file.
Closes the current model file and

Close return you to the Start Page.
This will save any changes made in

Save the current model file since the pre-
vious save.
Opens a Windows Save As dialog

Save As box, which is used to save the cur-
rent model in a different location
or with a different file name.
Opens the Print dialog box, which

is used to print the active doc-
Print ument using current print settings.
> Print
Print
> Print
Setup
Opens the Print Settings dialog

box, which is used to select a
Print printer and change settings for the
> Change printer.
the Printer
and Printer
Options
Create New Project dialog box

Used to create and open an empty STAAD Foundation project.
Opens when New is selected from the Application menu.
User Manual — 17
New tab
Project type list
l General Foundation
l Plant Foundation
l Foundation Toolkit
Open
Opens the a new, untitled AFS file with the specified project type.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without opening a STAAD Foundation project file.
Existing tab
Offers the same controls as the Open dialog Existing tab.
Recent tab
Offers the same controls as the Open dialog Recent tab.
Open Project dialog box

Used to open an existing .AFS file.
Opens when File > Open is selected.
Existing tab
To open an existing project, navigate to the directory in which the project file
is located and then select the file and click on Open.
Look in
Lists the drives and directories for selection.
List box
User Manual — 19
Lists files for selection. The files listed reside in the directory chosen in
the Look in option menu, filtered according to the file type chosen in the
Files of type option menu. Double-clicking a filename in the list box
selects the file.
File name
Shows the name of the file that is selected in the list box, or you can key
in a filename. The list box lists the name of the existing files in the
directory.
To bypass the Look in option menu, you can key in a complete path
specification for a file in the File name field.
Files of type
Sets the type of file to open. STAAD Foundation can only read .AFS file
formats directly. Use the Import feature to use data in a different file
type.
Open
Opens the selected AFS file.
If the filename in the Name field is the same as the name of an existing
file, an alert box asks if you want to overwrite the existing file.
If a AFS file is already open, it is closed before the newly selected AFS
file is opened.
Cancel
Go to Last Folder Visited
Returns to the last folder that you opened.
Up One Level
Moves up one directory from your current location.
Create New Folder
Creates a new folder with an editable name field.
View Menu
Allows you to select how to display the files in the directory.
l Thumbnails — Shows a thumbnail image of the files in the directory.

l Tiles — Displays the file by name, type and size of file.
l Icons — Displays the files by the product-specific icon.
l List — Shows a list of the files in the directory.
l Details — Allows you to select what details you want to display for
the files listed.
Recent tab
The recent tab contains a list of recently opened STAAD Foundation project
files. Select one from the list to re-open.
Open
Opens the selected AFS file.
If the filename in the Name field is the same as the name of an existing
file, an alert box asks if you want to overwrite the existing file.
If a AFS file is already open, it is closed before the newly selected AFS
file is opened.
Cancel
STAAD Foundation Advanced File saving dialog box

Used to save a copy of the STAAD Foundation project file with a different
name, in a different directory, or on a different disk. If just a different name is
chosen, the copy becomes the active design file.
Opens when Save As… is selected from the Application menu.
To save a project, navigate to the directory in which you want to save the
project, type in a file name for the project, and then click on Save.
User Manual — 21
Hint: Refer to the documentation for your version of Windows for other
common dialog controls.
List box
Sets the name of the STAAD Foundation file you want to save. The list
box lists the names of the existing files in the directory.
Different systems allow different numbers of characters in filenames.
Some systems are case-sensitive (they differentiate between upper and
lower case), others are not. If portability between different systems is a
concern, filenames with a maximum of eight characters all in the same
case are recommended.
File name
Sets the name of the STAAD Foundation file you want to save.
Save as type
Sets the type of file format. STAAD Foundation saves only in .AFS file
format.
Save
Saves the selected STAAD Foundation project.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without saving the current project file.
Print dialog box

Used to print the active project report.
Opens when either:
l Print is selected from the Application menu, or

l the Print tool is clicked in the Print Preview dialog.
Printer
Lets you choose the printer driver to use. Select any Windows system
printer.
Properties…
Used to set the properties for the selected printer.
Print range
l All — Prints the entire report
l Pages — Enter from and to pages to specify a range within the
report to print.
l Selection — Prints only the pages selected before the dialog
opened.
Number of copies
Enter the Number of copies desired.
Collate
Select this option to print entire jobs together before beginning the next
copy.
OK
Closes the dialog and sends the document to the selected printer.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without printing.
User Manual — 23
Print Setup dialog box
You can specify a printer and connection to the printer here. Your default
Windows printer is selected for your automatically, if available.
Opens when Print > Print Setup… is selected from the Application menu.
Name
Selects the printer to be used. Only printers that have been installed are
listed here. Additional information about the printer's Status, Type, and
location are also displayed.
Note: For more information refer to the Windows documentation.
Properties…
Changes the printer settings from the printer selected in the Printers
list. The options vary according to the printer driver installed.
Note: Refer to the documentation for the selected printer for help on
the options and settings.
Paper
Select the paper Size and Source from the options for the selected
printer.
Orientation
Select the orientation that you want to use for the printed output.
Network…
Connects the computer to a printer across a network. For more infor-
mation refer to the Windows documentation or press Help in the Network
dialog box.
OK
Applies the Print Setup options and closes the dialog.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without making any changes.
Print Preview window

Displays an on-screen preview of how the current input file will when printed,
using the current Page Setup and Print Setup.
Opens when Print > Print Preview… is selected from the Application menu.
Print Preview toolbar
The print preview toolbar offers you options to view either one or two pages at
a time; move back and forth through the document; zoom in and out of pages;
and initiate a print job.
Print…
User Manual — 25
The same as selecting File > Print… from the STAAD Foundation window.
Once the file has been printed, the Print Preview window closes and
returns to the STAAD Foundation window.
Next Page
Displays the following page of the printed input file.
Prev Page
Displays the previous page of the printed input file
Two Page
Toggles the Print Preview window to display either one or two pages
simultaneously.
Zoom In
Magnifies the View of the Print Preview window. Same a clicking in the
window when the pointer is a magnifying glass.
Zoom Out
Decreases the magnification of the Print Preview window.
Close
Exits the Print Preview window and returns to the STAAD Foundation
window.
1.3.2 Quick access toolbar

Just to the right of the Application menu button is the Quick Access Toolbar,
which provides you with a place to add often used tools. By default, the Save
tool is included here. You can add any tool from any ribbon tab by right
clicking and selecting Add to Quick Access Toolbar from the pop-up menu.
1.3.3 Ribbon toolbar

The traditional menus and toolbars have been replaced by the Ribbon, which
shows relevant commands for a given action rather than every command at
once. This allows you much more area on your screen to view models and the
other panel areas that are described in the following sections. The pertinent
tools for the current task are provided to you, collected in Groups. The
Ribbon Menu bar is permanently located across the top portion of the
program window. This style of menu will be familiar to users of Microsoft
Office 2007, but is easy to learn for any user. Just think of the Ribbon tabs as
visual menus.
In the main Ribbon, you will see a series of tabs which access sets of
commands grouped by the relevant task. The Home ribbon tab contains a set
of most frequently used commands. There are more tabs which appear just to
the right of the Home ribbon tab which display collected features when
clicked. This way, most of STAAD Foundation's functionality is brought to the

top level, reducing the number of mouse clicks and hunting around for specific
features. Frequently used commands may also be added to the Quick Access
Toolbar to customize the interface.
Note: The Ribbon automatically resizes itself, the groups it displays, and
the resolution of the icons within; all depending on the window size and the
resolution of your screen. Therefore, your ribbon may often appear
differently than what is shown in the documentation and help images.
Home tab
Contains many of the general tools you will use to control files, perform
analysis & design.
Table 1-2: File group tools
Keyboard
Tool What it does
Shortcut
Opens a standard Windows file open <Ctrl+N>

dialog box, which is used to specify a file
New location and name.
Opens a standard Windows file open

Open dialog box, which is used to select an exist-
ing STAAD Foundation project file.
This will save any changes made in the cur- <Ctrl+S>

Save rent model file since the previous save.
Opens the STAAD Foundation Advanced

Save File Saving dialog box, which is used to
As save the current model in a different loca-
tion or with a different file name.
Closes the current model file and return

Close you to the Start Page.
Set this option to enable the auto save fea-

Enable ture, which will remind you to save your
Auto project on a scheduled cycle if changes
Save have been made.
User Manual — 27
Table 1-3: Design/Analysis group tools
Tool What it does
Used to initiate an analysis and

subsequent design of the active
Design/Analysis foundation.
Note: If the current job is of mat

foundation type, this command will
analyze the mat foundation.
Table 1-4: Import/Export group tools

Tool What it does
Imports reaction and geometry data from a

Import STAAD.Pro model.
STAAD.Pro
Used to update current project’s input data-

Update base with the changed STAAD.Pro output.
Opens the STAAD Foundation Advanced Excel

Import Import dialog box, with the file filter set for
Spreadsheet "Microsoft Excel (.xls)" files.
See See "Import Foundation Input from a
Microsoft Office Excel® spreadsheet" on page
358 for additional information on this feature.
Opens the STAAD Foundation Advanced

Export to Export to Excel dialog box, with the file filter
Spreadsheet set for "Microsoft Excel (.xls)" files.
Table 1-5: Job/Load group tools

Tool What it does
Used to change load cases by

selecting from a list of load cases
Current Load available in the active project. To
change load cases, simply select
the load case you want to change
to from the drop-down list box.
Tool What it does
If no load cases have been created

for a project, the drop-down list
box will be empty.
Used to select a job from a list of
jobs you have created for the
Current Job
active project. To change jobs,
simply select the job you want to
change to from the drop-down list
box.
If no jobs have been created for a
project, the drop-down list box
will be empty.
Table 1-6: Settings group tools

Tool What it does
Opens the Unit Setup dialog

Unit Setting box, which is used to set output
units and create default unit sets.
Opens the Modeling View
View Options Options form in the Data Input
pane.
Opens the Global Settings dialog

Global Options box, which is used to set global
defaults for STAAD Foundation
designs and output..
Opens the Scale Setup form in

Scale Setup the Data Input pane.
Opens the Drawing Notes dialog

Drawing Notes box, which is used add and cus-
tomize text notes to a drawing
based on their own specifications.
Opens the Calculation Sheet Cus-

Report Customization tomization form, which is used to
select the components of a foun-
dation design report for inclusion
User Manual — 29
Tool What it does
in output.
Table 1-7: View group tools

Tool What it does
(Default view) View the model from a positive,

Isometric isometric angle.
View
View the foundation model from the positive Z

Front View axis.
View the foundation model from the negative Z

Back View axis
View the foundation model from the positive X

Right View axis.
View the foundation model from the negative X

Left View axis.
View the foundation mode in plan; from the

Top View positive Y axis.
View the foundation model from the negative Y

Bottom axis.
View
STAAD.Pro File Import dialog box
Used to begin a new project by importing the support co-ordinates and

forces/moments on the individual supports from Bentley's STAAD.Pro
structural analysis software program. This feature allows you to import any
analyzed STAAD.Pro file and update foundation input database if the
STAAD.Pro file gets changed.
Opens when the Import STAAD.Pro tool is selected from the Home tab.
List box
Lists files for selection. The files listed reside in the directory chosen in
the Look in option menu, filtered according to the file type chosen in the
Files of type option menu. Double-clicking a filename in the list box
selects the file.
File name
Shows the name of the file that is selected in the list box, or you can key
in a filename. The list box lists the name of the existing files in the
directory.
To bypass the Look in option menu, you can key in a complete path
specification for a file in the File name field.
Files of type
Sets the type of file to open. STAAD Foundation can import STAAD.Pro
input files (file extension .STD).
Open
Opens the Import STAAD.Pro File dialog, which is used to list all the
available load cases found in the selected STD file.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without importing a STAAD.Pro project file.
User Manual — 31
Global Settings dialog box
Used to set global defaults for STAAD Foundation designs and output.
Opens when the Global Options tool is selected from the Home ribbon tab.
Reinforcement Spacing Increment

For jobs with US code and English unit system (in inches)
For other cases (in millimeters)
Dimension Display
Select either to Use Current Length Unit or Use Ft-In Unit for drawing
output.
Top Reinforcement Option
Select to Always Calculate Top Reinforcement Based on Concrete and
Soil Weight or to Calculate Top Reinforcement Only When Foundation is
Subjected to Uplift Forces. The first option will always include top
reinforcement, where as the latter will omit it if the calculations indicate
it is not necessary due to applied forces.
Ultimate Check Self weight Option
Select this option to include the self weight of the footing, along with
soil dead weight and buoyancy effect in concrete design check. This
option is particularly useful when footing loses contact with the soil
(uplift condition), as the concrete design tends to be very non
conservative without consideration of self weight.
Note: Using this option for concrete design might lead to failure for a
footing checked with set dimensions. With the inclusion of self weight,
soil bearing pressure for concrete design load cases increases, thus
leading to higher shear forces and bending moments.
OK
Saves the settings and closes the dialog.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without saving any settings.
View tab
Contains tools used to control the model display in the view pane.
Table 1-8: View group tools on the View tab

Tool What it does
(Default view) View the model from a positive,

Isometric isometric angle.
View
View the foundation model from the positive Z

Front View axis.
View the foundation model from the negative Z

Back View axis
View the foundation model from the positive X

Right View axis.
View the foundation model from the negative X

Left View axis.
View the foundation mode in plan; from the pos-

Top View itive Y axis.
View the foundation model from the negative Y

Bottom axis.
View
User Manual — 33
Table 1-9: Rotation group tools on the View tab
Tool What it does
Rotate the foundation model forward about the

Rotate Up X axis.
Rotate the foundation mode backward about

Rotate the X axis.
Down
Rotate the foundation model backward about

Rotate the Y axis.
Right

Rotate Y axis.
Left

Spin Left Z axis.
Rotate the foundation model backward about

Spin Right the Z axis.
Table 1-10: Zoom/Pan group tools on the View tab
Tool What it does
Increase the magnification of the view.

Zoom
In
Decrease the magnification of the view.

Zoom
Out
Display all elements fit to the view window size.

Zoom
All
Window an area to zoom to the view to those

Zoom extents.
Window
Move the view to a different portion of the model

Pan without changing the zoom or rotation.
Table 1-11: Miscellaneous group tools on the View tab

Tool What it does
Toggle the display of construction grid lines.
Show/Hide
Grid
Opens a Color dialog box to select a back-

ground color.
Change
Background
Color
Used to limit the display of supports to only

those positions which are assigned to currently
Show Cur-
selected job.
rent Sup-
ports
Toggles the display of the Output pane.
Show Out-
put View
Toggles the display of the Main Navigator pane.
Show Main
Navigator
Tools tab
Contains tools used to manipulating foundation models.
Table 1-12: Selection Cursor group tools
Tool What it does
Used to select only support nodes with

Support your mouse cursor, causing all other
objects to be ignored.
Used to select only piles with your mouse

Pile cursor, causing all other objects to be
ignored.
User Manual — 35
Tool What it does
Used to select only physical members with

Beam your mouse cursor, causing all other
objects to be ignored.
Used to select only mat boundary with

Boundary your mouse cursor, causing all other
Region objects to be ignored.
Used to select only plates with your

Plate mouse cursor, causing all other objects to
be ignored.
Used to select only mesh nodes with your

Meshed Node mouse cursor, causing all other objects to
be ignored.
Table 1-13: Mat Geometry tools group
Tool What it does
Used to place column positions on grid inter-

Add Support section points using your mouse cursor. A
grid is created using the Grid Setup page
under the Foundation Plan group.
Used to add physical beams graphically. Select

Add Beam this cursor and then click on two support
nodes to create a beam between those two
nodes.
Used to place pile positions on grid inter-

Add Pile section points using your mouse cursor. A
grid is created using the Grid Setup page
under the Foundation Plan group.
Used to create a mat boundary by clicking on

Add Polyg- grid intersection nodes. To close the
onal Bound- polygon, simply click on right mouse button
ary or click on the first point.
If the mat slab is imported from STAAD.Pro,
this icon allows you to create a mat
boundary by clicking on plate nodes.
Tool What it does
Note: Active only if the current job is of

mat foundation type.
Used to create a rectangular shaped mat

Add Rec- boundary by clicking on grid intersection
tangular nodes. Click on the first point to define top,
Boundary left corner of the rectangle and then draw a
rubber band and release mouse on a grid
intersection point which will define bottom
right corner of the rectangle.

Used to create a circular shaped mat

Add Circular boundary by clicking on grid intersection
Boundary nodes. Click on the first point to define the
center of the circle. Drag the mouse and
release on another grid intersection point on
circle perimeter. The distance between
center and this point will be the radius of
the circle.

Used to delete piles outside the boundary for

Delete Piles mat on piles. All the piles outside the
Outside selected boundary will be deleted from the
Boundary project.

Opens the Mat Foundation Modeling wiz-

Rectangular ard, which is used to rapidly model rec-
Mat Wizard tangular mat foundations.
Opens the Move selected entities by…

Move
User Manual — 37
Tool What it does
Selected Enti- dialog box, which is used to move selected

ties entities like support positions, beams and
piles.
Opens the Translational Repeat dialog,

Translational which is used to duplicate objects in a model.
Repeat
Table 1-14: Loading tools group
Tool What it does
Opens the Add Self Weight & Modify Dead

Self Weight Factor dialog box.
Weight
Used to specify a circular load by clicking the

Circular center and then the radius. The Add Circular Pres-
Pressure sure Load dialog box opens to provide load
details.
Used to specify a circular load by clicking and drag-

Quad ging a rectangular window. The Add Rectangular
Pressure Pressure Load dialog box opens to provide load
details.
Used to add point loads. The Add Point Load

Point dialog box opens to provide load details.
Load
Used to add point loads due to column reactions.

Reaction The Add Reaction Load dialog box opens to pro-
Load vide load details.
Used to add linear loads. The Add Line Load

Line dialog box opens to provide load details.
Load
Table 1-15: Grouping group tools on the Tools tab

Tool What it does
Draw all the designed footings to actual scale. This

Show
Tool What it does
Actual is useful for checking for interference.

Sizes Also this step is the first step for creating footing
groups. Select all the footings by clicking left mouse
button while holding Ctrl key and the click on
“Create Group” button on toolbar to make all those
footings of one group.
Create a design group with the selected footings in

Create schematic diagram mode. Newly created group will
Group have maximum dimensions among all selected foot-
ings.
Table 1-16: Pictures group tools on the Tools tab

Tool What it does
Takes a snapshot of the Graphics Window for use in

Take the Report Setup.
Picture
Opens the Save Bitmap dialog box, which is used

Save to save current screen to bitmap picture file.
Picture
Table 1-17: Dimension group tools on the Tools tab
Tool What it does
Opens the Set Column Dimension dialog box,

Set Col- which is used to create column or pedestal
umn objects..
Dimension
Move selected entities by… dialog box
Used to move selected entities like support positions, beams, and piles.
Opens when the Move Selected Entities too is selected from the Tools
ribbon tab.
User Manual — 39
Unit
Select a unit of length in which values will be given.
Delta X, Y, Z
Specify distances along any or all of the global axis. These values are the
distance by which the object(s) will be moved.
OK
Closes the dialog and moves the selected entity by the specified values.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without moving the entity.
Mat Foundation modeling wizard
Used to rapidly model rectangular mat foundations. The wizard generates a

new mat foundation job, with a rectangle boundary and mesh. This skips many
steps involved in Job Setup, creating a rectangular region, generating a mesh,
and specifying slab properties.
Opens when the Rectangular Mat Wizard tool is selected from the Tools
ribbon tab.
Job Setup
Job Name
Used to uniquely identify each job. You can enter any string here.
Length Unit
Select a unit of length for all coordinates and lengths.
Default Unit Type
Used to setup default design parameters of the job. The program
supports both FPS and SI unit systems. You can select any combination of
design code and default unit type. In other words user can choose US
design code with SI unit system.
Design Code
Used to define concrete code to be used. Current version supports 5
country codes which are
l US - ACI 318-05
l Britain - BS 8110
l Indian - IS 456-2000
l Australian - AS 3600-2004
l Candian - CSA 23.3-04
l Chinese - GB50007-2002
User Manual — 41
Support Assignment
Used to assign supports to a job. There are three assignment methods
l Assign to All Supports - assigns all supports to new job.

l Assign to Selected Supports - assign all selected supports in the
main view to the current job.
Note: This selection must be made prior to opening the Mat

Foundation Modeling wizard.
Meshing
Meshing Type
Select a Quadrilateral or Triangle finite element shape.
Element Size
Specify a target element size, in the selected Length Unit.
Boundary Setup
X / Z Coordinate at Top left corner
Specify coordinates for X1,Z1, in the selected Length Unit. This is the
top-left corner of the rectangle when viewed in plan (View From Top in
the Trans Rotate toolbar). This locates the rectangular region in plan.
Length / Width
Specify the length (rectangle dimension parallel to the X axis) and width
(rectangle dimension parallel to the Z axis), in the selected Length
Unit, to define the size of the rectangular region.
Y Level
Specify an elevation (Y coordinate for all points in the rectangular
region), in the selected Length Unit.
Slab Property
Analysis Thickness
Used for FEM analysis of mat foundation, in the selected Length Unit.
Note: STAAD Foundation allows you to use different thickness for

analysis and design.
Design Thickness
Used to design the mat slab, in the selected Length Unit.
Subgrade Modulus
Modulus of elasticity of soil supporting the mat foundation, in the
selected units.
Create
Creates a new mat foundation job with the specified rectangular mesh
region and slab properties.
Cancel
Closes the wizard without creating a new mat foundation job.
Set Column Dimension dialog box
Used to create column or pedestal objects.

Opens when the Set Column Dimension tool is selected on the Tools
ribbon tab.
Consider Pedestal
Select this option if the object being created is to be considered as a
pedestal.
Column Type
Specify the cross-section type of the column: either rectangular or
circular.
Unit
Select a unit of length in which values will be given.
User Manual — 43
Column Depth/Dia.
Provide the strong axis dimension of the column. If the Column Type
is circular, this field is the diameter.
Column Width
Provide the weak axis dimension of the column. If the Column Type is
circular, this field is not active.
Pedestal Height
If the column is to be considered as a pedestal, provide a pedestal
height.
OK
Closes the dialog and creates the column object.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without creating any objects.
Translational Repeat dialog box
Used to duplicate objects in a model. The command works similar to a copy

command, except multiple copies of an object can be made at a time. In
addition, objects may be linked to together with transverse members. In order
to use Translational Repeat, you must first select at least one object before
the command will become available.
No. of Steps
Specify the number of copies to make.
Link Steps
Select this option to create a physical member between each new copy
made, linking to the previous copy.

X, Y, Z Increment
The Increment group box allows you to specify the distance from the
original object(s) to the copied object(s). When No. of Steps is greater
than 1, the increment values will also specify the distance between the
multiple copied objects. The increment unit used is specified in the
Change Length Unit drop-down list box in the Tools toolbar.
OK
Closes the dialog and creates the copied objects and links, if selected.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without creating any copied objects.
Add Circular Pressure Load dialog box
Used to add a circular pressure load to the current load case.
Note: Circular pressure is applicable only to mat foundations.
Opens when the Circular Pressure Load tool is selected in the Standard
toolbar.
To create the circular pressure load

1. Select the Add Circular Pressure Load tool.
User Manual — 45
2. Click on any grid intersection point and that will become the center of the
circle
3. Drag the mouse to the desired circular radius and release the mouse on
a grid intersection node.
Note: The distance between the first point and second point is the
radius of the circle. If the mouse cursor is not released on a grid
intersection point load will not be created.
The Add Circular Pressure Load dialog opens.

4. Input Pressure value and select units
5. (Optional) Modify center and radius values if necessary.
6. Click the OK button.
Add Line Load dialog
This option allows user to add a line load on mat slab.
Note: Line load is applicable only to mat foundations.
Opens when the Add Line Load tool is selected in the Standard toolbar.
To add a Line Load to a Mat foundation

1. Select the Add Line Load tool.
2. Click on any grid intersection point
This point becomes the first point of the line.
3. Drag mouse cursor and click on second grid intersection point to

complete the line segment.
The Add Line Load dialog opens.
4. Input load value
5. (Optional) Modify the line segment end coordinates if necessary.
Add Point Load dialog
Used to create a point load on space.
Note: This option is available only for mat foundation.
Opens when the Add Point Load tool is selected in the Standard toolbar.
1. Select the Add Point Load tool.
2. Click on any grid intersection point and the program will add a point load
at that point.
The Add Point Load dialog opens.
3. Input Force values for all six degrees of freedom in the selected Force/
Moment Units.
User Manual — 47
4. (Optional) Edit Position coordinates as necessary.
Add Reaction Load dialog
Used to add point loads due to column reactions at support positions.

Reaction loads will be added to the current load case.
Opens when the Add Reaction Load tool is selected in the Standard toolbar.
To add a column reaction load to a support posi-

tion
1. Select the Add Reaction Load tool.
2. Select any support node in the Main View window.

The Add Reaction Load dialog opens.
3. Input Load values for all six degrees of freedom in the selected Force/
Moment Units
5. Repeat steps 2-4 to add additional column reaction loads to the active
load case.
6. Select the Add Reaction Load tool again to stop adding loads.
Add Rectangular Pressure Load dialog
Used to add a rectangular pressure load to the current load case.
Note: Rectangular pressure is applicable only to mat foundations.
Opens when the Add Rectangular Pressure Load tool is selected in the
Standard toolbar.
To create the quadrilateral pressure load

1. Select the Add Rectangular Pressure Load tool.
2. Click on any grid intersection point and that will become the top left
corner of the rectangle.
3. Draw the rubber band and release the mouse cursor on a grid
intersection point which will be bottom right corner of the rectangle.
The Add Rectangular Pressure Load dialog opens.
4. Input pressure value and select units.
5. (Optional) Modify coordinates as necessary.
User Manual — 49
Unit Setup dialog box
Used to set output units and create default unit sets.
Dialog controls
Length Unit
Length unit is used in all tables and pages as appropriate. Column posi-
tion, column dimension, pile position, slab thickness are some of the
pages where length units are used. Forms for loading etc., output tables
and calculation sheet also uses length unit.
Force Unit
Force unit is used for all input and output related force. Pressure or stress
unit is determined combining length and force unit.
Moment unit
Moment unit is used wherever program needs to display moment. It could
be in calculation sheet, load page or output table.
Reinforcing Bar Diameter
This unit is used in output table and calculation sheet to report rein-
forcing bar diameter.
Reinforcing Bar Spacing
This unit is used in output table and calculation sheet to report required
and provided reinforcing bar spacing.
Distributed Force
This unit is primarily used for linear load on a mat foundation.
Save as default
Program now supports default display unit setup for both English and SI
unit.
To set the defaults for English unit, setup all the desired units and press
“English Unit” button. It will save the selected defaults in INI unit.
To set the defaults for SI unit, setup all the desired units and press “SI
Unit” button. It will save the selected defaults in INI unit.
Program will automatically set display units based on current job unit
setup.
OK
Saves changes made and closes the dialog.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without saving any changes.
Help tab
Contains items for using online help.
Tool What it does
Opens the About STAAD Foundation window

in which information about the product is dis-
About
played.
Opens the Help window to display STAAD Foun-

dation's Table of Contents.
Contents
Opens the Help window to display the What's

New topic.
What's New
Contains a list of video tutorials that will open

in Windows Media Player once selected.
Tutorial
User Manual — 51
Tool What it does
Opens the STAAD Foundation Help window to

the help topic relative to the currently selected
Context
feature.
Sensitive
Opens the STAAD Foundation Verification

Problems manual.
Verification
Manual
Note: You must have Adobe Acrobat
Reader or other software capable of reading
.PDF files installed on you computer.
Opens the STAAD Foundation wiki page which

contains links to several video tutorials on using
Online
the product.
Tutorials
About STAAD Foundation Advanced dialog box
Used to show information about STAAD Foundation.

Opens when About is selected from the Help ribbon tab..
The following information is shown:
l STAAD Foundation version number

l registered user name, site or organization, and, if applicable, SELECTserver
host name.
l copyright information
l trademark notice
OK
Closes the About STAAD Foundation window.
View "Read Me" Document
Opens the Read Me document for this release of STAAD Foundation V8i
in your default Web browser.
Note: You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader or other software

capable of reading .PDF files installed on you computer.
1.3.4 Main Navigator pane

Handles the program flow and display of forms, tables, dialog boxes etc. for
entering your project data. It is organized in a hierarchal order, allowing you
to complete a project by working from the top to the bottom.
User Manual — 53
This pane is primarily a tree control where the whole tree is divided in
several groups. The basic division is Global and Local data. Information which
will be used all through the project is called global data. Column positions,
column dimension and loading are global data. Data related to specific type of
job like Isolated footing are known as local data. Design parameters, footing
geometry are examples of local data.
Selecting a "leaf" in the tree navigator either opens a form in the Data Input
and Loads pane, opens a dialog, or performs a program action.
The Main Navigator includes different sections, depending on the mode in
which your project is in STAAD Foundation. Refer to the specific help sections
on each mode for detailed information on using the individual Main Navigator
items.
General Foundations
Plant Foundations
Foundation Toolkit
1.3.5 Tabbed View window

The main view window contains tabbed pages for displaying graphics as well as
design calculation output on screen. This window is a permanent fixture in the
application window.
The following tabbed pages are available:
Start Page tab

Provides you with access to common file operations for creating new projects,
opening existing projects, or exploring the program.
User Manual — 55
New File
Opens the Create New Project dialog, which is used to create and
open an empty STAAD Foundation project.
Open File
Opens the Open dialog, which is used to open an existing STAAD
Foundation project.
General Mode
Starts a new General Foundation project. Same as selecting File > New
> General Setup.
Plant Mode
Starts a new Plant Foundation project. Same as selecting File > New
> Plant Setup.

Toolkit Mode
Starts a new Foundation Toolkit project. Same as selecting File > New
> Toolkit Setup.
Examples
Opens the Open dialog with STAAD Foundation Examples folder
loading in the browsing section.
Tutorial
Opens the STAAD Foundation Tutorials page in your default Web
browser.
Help
Opens the Help window to display STAAD Foundation's Table of
Contents
RSS feed
Displays a list of Bentley news items relating to STAAD Foundation. Here
you can find news regarding training opportunities, program updates, and
news items important to STAAD Foundation users.
Clicking an item listed in the feed will open the related article in your
default Web browser.
Geometry page
Used as the main graphical input for foundation models.
Once a design has been performed, you can group foundations to reduce the
total number of designs for a given job.
Note: If you are not able to see the loads or other model entities properly,
it may because the scaling value for the display is either too small or too
big. Use the Scale Setup form to change the scale value.
Detail and Schedule Drawing tab

After a successful design, the detail drawing will be automatically created,
complete with a title block. Detailed drawing sdisplays a schematic diagram of
the footing elevation and reinforcement plan.
User Manual — 57
Detail Drawing Controls
Drawing Type
Select either a Detail Drawing to display a footing elevation and plan
drawing or a Schedule Drawing to display a table of foundation details.
Footing No. list
Select the footing which is to be drawing in the Detail Drawing tab win-
dow.
Options
Displays the Drawing Options form in the Data Input pane, which is
used to .
Save Drawing As…
Opens the Save Drawing As dialog, which is used to save the detail draw-
ing or schedule in a variety of formats, including DWG and DXF.
Drawing Options form
Used to control the appearance of drawing elements in the Detail Drawing.

Opens when the Options button is clicked on the Detail Drawing tab of the
Main View window.
Dimension Line Options

Set the Arrowhead Size and Dimension Line Offset using the size toggle
controls. Dimension lines offset in outward direction from the view. The
Dimension Line Visibility is toggled using the selector.
Extension Line Options
Extend of Extension Line: Extension line can be further extended passing
the dimension line using this toggle.
User Manual — 59
Extension of Line Offset: Extension lines offset from the view in outward
direction using this toggle
Extension Line Visibility: Extension line visibility can be turned on or off
through this toggle.
Text Options
Dimension Text Height: Height of dimension text can be set through this
toggle
Distance Around Text: Text for dimension lines is offset in the text
position direction when Dimension Text Position is set as ‘Above’. For
Dimension Text Position is set as ‘Center’, it curtails the dimension line
around the text.
Dimension Text Alignment: Dimension text can be either aligned along
with the dimension line or always horizontal using this toggle.
Dimension Text Position: Position of dimension text can be set to above
dimension line or aligned with dimension line using this toggle.
Font Options
Select the callout Font Size and set the Callout Arrowhead Size using
these tools.
Color Options
For Dimension Lines Color, Extension Lines Color, and
Dimension Text Color, click the associated button to open a Select
Color dialog.
Save As dialog box (drawings)
Controls in this dialog are analogous to those found in the standard Save As
dialog.
Save as type
Sets the type of file format. The drawing file is saved in this format.
File Exten-
Type Description
sion
AutoCAD Drawings .dwf Used for storing two and

R2004 three dimensional design
data and metadata.
Native for AutoCAD
R2004 and many other
CAD applications.
AutoCAD Drawings .dwf Used for storing two and

R2000 three dimensional design
data and metadata.
Native for AutoCAD
R2000 and many other
CAD applications.
AutoCAD Drawing .dxf Used for storing two and

Interchange For- three dimensional design
mat R2004 data and metadata. Can
User Manual — 61
File Exten-
Type Description
sion
be read by a wide variety

of CAD applications.


Vdp Format R4.x .vdp
Vdraw Drawings .vdf

R4.x
.vdi
Windows Metafile .wmf
Enhanced Metafile .emf
Windows Bitmap .bmp
Graphics Inter- .gif

change Format
Joint Photographic .jpg

Experts Group
Tagged Image File .tif

Format
TARGA (Truevision .tga

Graphics Adapter)
Portable Network .png

Graphics
Drawing Notes dialog box
Used to add and customize text notes to a drawing based on their own
specifications. The drawing and foundation type is pre-populated with common
notes, but each may be edited or removed for your organization or project
standards.
Once user notes are edited, the changes are saved in the program; hence user
notes editing is one time process.
Opens when either:
l Save Drawing Notes is clicked on the Detail and Schedule Drawing tab
of the View window, or
l the Drawing Notes tool is selected
Drawing Type
Select either the Detail Drawing, GA Drawing, or Schedule Drawing to add
notes.
Foundation Type
Select any of the foundation types available in the program.
User Notes
Each line in the table represents an additional note.
User Manual — 63
to add a line, click in the last (empty) User Note field and begin typing.
To delete a line, select the its Index number and press the Delete key.
Save User Note(s)
Click to add or change the user notes to the selected drawing and foun-
dation type.
Refresh Drawing
Click to update the drawing with the modified notes and close the dialog.
GA Drawing tab
Upon successful design, this tab produces a footing plan layout of analyzed
footings drawn to scale, complete with a title block.
Hint: This drawing is useful to check footing overlap or foundation

clashing.
Save Drawing As…
Opens the Save As dialog, which is used to save the GA Drawing in a vari-
ety of common CAD or image file formats.
GA Drawing Options
Displays the GA Drawing Options form in the Data Input pane.
GA Drawing Options form
Used to control the display of GA Drawing elements.

Opens when GA Drawing Options is clicked from the GA Drawing tab in the
View window.
Display Column no.s

Select this option to display the column numbers in callouts on the
GA Drawing.
Display Column Numbers in Schedule Table
Select this option to display the column numbers in the footing schedule.
Optimize Gridlines
Select this option to allow the program to automatically control the display
of column grildlines.
Display Columns Only
Select this option to toggle off the display of foundations and other non-col-
umn entities.
Show GA Drawing for current job only
User Manual — 65
If you have multiple jobs in the same STAAD Foundation project, select
this option to limit the GA Drawing to display only the job currently
selected in the Job Selection list in the Standard toolbar.
Angle between GA drawing north and true north
Used to rotate the plan drawing for convenience.
Refresh
Click to update the GA Drawing for any changes in the options or if a
Create Group action has been performed.
Calculation Sheet tab

Provides a detailed set of foundation calculations and code checks once a
successful design has been performed. Each footing element is presented with
step by step calculation with relevant code clause numbers and equations.
The heading of the calculation sheet includes the type of foundation which was
designed as well as which code was used. The following set of sub-headings
contain hyperlinks to the individual foundation element design results.
This calculation sheet is web-enabled for real time checking.
Refer to Creating Detailed Calculation Sheets for additional information.
Print Calculation Sheet

Located at the end of the calculation sheet. Opens the Print dialog, which
is used to print hard copies of the calculation sheet.
Graphs tab
Used to display internal force graphs for a strip footing beam.
Select strip footing index

Used to select the strip footing beam for which graphs are displayed.
Select load case
Used to select the load case for which graphs are displayed.
Select Graph
Graph Options
Opens the Graph Drawing Options form in the Data Input pane, which
is used to control the display of strip footing internal force graphs.
User Manual — 67
Graph Drawing Options form
Used to control the display of strip footing internal force graphs

Opens when the Graph Options button is clicked on the Graphs tab in the
Main View window.
Choose Graph / Graph Paper Color

Select a color from curves and background the drop-down gallery of colors.
Set Font Size
Click Choose Font to open a standard Font dialog, which is used to set
font size, typeface, color, style, or effects.
Line Width
Specify a line width to use for the curves.
Graph Division X / Y
Specify a number of divisions to use in the horizontal and vertical axis of
the graphs.
Show Drawing Points
Select this option to toggle on the discrete points for the graphs.
Refresh
Click to update the graphs with the selected options in this form.
1.3.6 Data Input and Load pane

Used as the primary are for input and options selection for foundation jobs in
the General Foundation mode. This is also used to edit some options for Plant
Foundations or Foundation Toolkit jobs. All global data that is not imported is
entered here.
Input is done by in a series of forms, most of which are opened through either
the Main Navigator pane or the Main View window. Both Data Input
pane and Load pane are displayed here, with only the necessary pane being
displayed for the currently selected form.
1.3.7 Output Pane

Lists design progress while designing or analyzing a foundation and displays
output tables upon completion of a successful analysis.
Design Progress Report

Any warning or error messages will appear here during the design process.
Output tables
After a successful analysis/design, output tables will be shown in one or more
tabs in the Output pane.
Hint: The data within output tables can be copied and pasted into other
programs, such as Microsoft Excel or Word. Highlight the table cells and
press CTRL+C to copy their contents.
User Manual — 69
Section 2
General Foundations
2.1 Introduction
In STAAD Foundation, you start out by creating a Project to hold physical
information, such as column locations, column dimensions, piles, beams, and
loads. The physical information represents the structure that a foundation is
intended to support. Unless the design of the structure is modified, these
physical conditions generally remain constant throughout the life of a
foundation design project. Your project also contains Jobs, which are sets of
constraints needed to tell STAAD Foundation how to perform a foundation
design. Each project may contain multiple jobs, making it easy for you to
evaluate different design scenarios for a given set of physical conditions.
Note: STAAD Foundation does not display the entire tree all the time.
Rather, it only displays groups and leaves that are relevant to the current
status of the project. For example, when you begin a new project, only the
Project Info, Foundation Plan, Loads and Factors and Job Setup groups will
appear in the Navigator pane. These four groups allow you to specify the
physical model upon which the foundation design is performed. It is only
when you specify a Job (a set of constraints for STAAD Foundation to use
User Manual — 71
in performing a foundation design) that the groups related to the design
will appear.
2.2 Global Data

The main navigator pane Global Data groups are as follows:
2.2.1 Project Info

Used to add general info about a project, create a revision history for a
project, and access view and scaling controls. The Project Info group is active
by default when you open a new or existing project.
Use of the Project Info group is optional. It is provided for your convenience.
You can store relevant general information regarding a project and also create
a revision history. Later on, you can instruct STAAD Foundation to display
this information in reports and drawings.
Table 2-1: Project Info group items
Same Effect as
Name Description
Selecting
General Infor- Opens the General Infor-

mation mation form in the Data
Input pane, which is used
to store general project
information used in your
organization.
Review History Opens the Review History

form in the Data Input
pane, which is used to
keep track of the progress
of a project.
Modeling View Opens the Modeling View View Options

Options Options form in the data in the Home
input pane, which is used ribbon tab
to control graphics display
by toggling the display of
several model elements.
Scale setup Opens the Scale Setup Scale in the
Section 2 General Foundations
Same Effect as
Name Description
Selecting
options form in the data input Home ribbon

pane, which is used to con- tab
trol the scale at which dis-
placements, loads, and
drawing entities like foot-
ings and piles are displayed
on the model.
General Information form

Used to store general information regarding a project. The information you
input in the General Information form can later be used in reports and
drawings.
Note: The information in the General Information form is not required to

design foundations but can helpful for records in your organization.
Opens when Project Info > General Information is selected in the Main
Navigator.
User Manual — 73
Table 2-2: General Information form parameter descriptions
Group Parameter Description
General Project ID Your organization's internal

Information project identification number.
Project Title Any text title which is helpful in

identifying the project by name.
Site Location Any text title which is helpful in

describing the physical location of
the project.
Client Organization These fields are used to record

your client's information.
Contact Per-
son
Phone
Fax
Email
Address
Group Parameter Description
Engineer's Designer The name or initials of the staff

Description member responsible for creating
the project file.
Supervisor The name or initials of the super-

visor or reviewer.
Start Date Enter a date for the beginning of

the project. This date defaults to
the date the project file was
created.
Hint: When this cell is

highlighted, clicking the down
arrow to the right of the field
will open a calendar tool
which can be used to select a
date.
Target Date Enter a milestone or target

completion date (can be changed
at any time). This date defaults
to the date the project file was
created.
Hint: When this cell is

highlighted, clicking the down
arrow to the right of the field
will open a calendar tool
which can be used to select a
date.
Review History form

Used to keep track of the progress of a project.
Opens when Project Info > Review History is selected in the Main
Navigator pane.
User Manual — 75
Review History table
Each new revision is given a unique ID Number, starting from 1.
l Date - Input the date.
Hint: When this cell is highlighted, clicking the down arrow to

the right of the field will open a calendar tool which can be used
to select a date.
l Job Name - Add any text description. You may want to add all jobs
which were worked on for a particular revision.
l Checked By - Add any text description. This is typically the name or
initials of the reviewer.
Hint: Pressing [Return] or [tab] will skip to the next cell in the table.
Arrow keys may also be used to navigate through the table in any
order.
Comments form
Add any text description. This is typically a summary of the work
performed for this revision or notes from a reviewer.
Save
Saves any changes made to the revision table and comments field.
Comments will not be saved with the revision item unless the save button
is clicked.
Delete
Removes the currently selected revision from the revision table.
Note: Deleting a revision from the revision table also deletes the
Comments that were stored with the deleted revision.
Delete All
Removes all revisions from the revision table.
Modeling View Options form

Used to control graphics display by toggling the display of several model
elements. It also has options to change color of certain entities.
Opens when:
l Project Info > Modeling View Options is selected in the Main Navigator

pane, or
l the View Options tool is selected in the Home ribbon tab.
User Manual — 77
Show Supports
Toggles the view of supports.
Show Support Numbers
This option is used to display support numbers. Support numbers will
not be displayed if Show Supports option is unselected.
Show Piles
This option is used to switch on/off display of piles in graphics area.
Show Pile Numbers
This option is used to display pile numbers. Pile numbers will not be
displayed if Show Piles option is unselected.
Show Load Arrows
This option is used to display load arrows.
Note: The color picker control to the right is used to select a color
for load arrows graphics.
Show Load Values

This option is used to display load values next to the load arrows.
Show Physical Beams
This option is used to display physical beams if present in the project.
The color picker control to the right is used to select a color for physical
beam graphics.
Draw Line/3D diagram
Select this option to draw physical beam as a line or as a solid surface.
Beam property will be used to draw the rectangular beam shape.
Show Plates
This option is used to display plate elements if present in current job.
Note: The color picker control to the right is used to select a color
for meshed plate graphics.
Draw <x>D Plates

This option gives user a choice to display plates as 2D surface or a solid
3D diagram.
Show Plate Numbers
This option is used to display plate numbers at the center of each plate.
This option won’t display plate numbers if Show Plates is unselected.
Show Nodes
This option is used to display plate nodes as blobs. This option is
unselected by default.
The color picker control to the right is used to select a color for plate
node graphics.
Show Node Numbers
This option is used to display node numbers next to the plate’s nodes.
This option won’t display node numbers if Show Nodes is unselected.
Show Boundary and Holes
This option is used to display boundary and holes created for mat
foundation.
User Manual — 79
Scale Setup form
Used to control the scale at which displacements, loads, and drawing entities
like footings and piles are displayed on the model. If the structure’s loads or
deformed shape are not clearly visible in the Graphics Window when the
options to display them are turned on, you may need to change the scaling
values.
Opens when:
l Project Info > Scale Setup Options is selected in the Main Navigator

pane, or
l the Scale Setup tool is selected in the Home ribbon tab.
The following commands are available
Results Scales: Displacement

Used to change the displacement scale of a mat foundation.
Displacement diagram is only available for mat foundation after a
successful analysis.
Note: You should decrease the scaling value to increase the amount of
deflection or loading shown on the diagram. Why do you decrease the
parameter value to increase the apparent size? The values in the
dialog box represent the actual displacement or loading per unit
distance on the graphic diagram. Therefore, if you reduce the amount
of actual structural deflection required to display a unit distance of
deflection on the diagram, you will see a larger apparent displacement
on the diagram.
Loading Scales
This group allows you to change the display of load arrows. Concentrated
force and moment for a point load has different scaling options.
Distributed load scale is applicable to line load on mat and beam loads.
Pressure load scale is applicable to quadrilateral and circular pressure
load.
Modeling Scales
Used to change the display size of supports (Footing Width) and piles
(Pile Length). Drawings of footing size are not scaled as the sizes are
not known, so sometimes those entities may seem too big or small.
Changing the scale user can control the sizes of those drawings.
Set As Default
Select this option to save the current scale setup for the default for the
program.
Refresh
Click to redraw the View window with the current scale settings.
2.2.2 Foundation Plan

Used to specify basic information on support, such as Column Positions,
Column Dimension. It also allows creating a grid to be used for defining
column position, pile position, mat boundary etc.
The Foundation Plan page contains the following sub-pages:
Table 2-3: Foundation Plan group items
Name Description
Linear Grid Opens the Linear Grid Setup and Table

Setup form in the Data Input pane, which is used
to define a linear grid on which geometry
can be graphically created.
User Manual — 81
Name Description
Radial Grid Opens the Radial Grid Setup and Table

Setup form in the Data Input pane, which is used
to define a radial grid on which geometry
can be graphically created.
Column Posi- Opens the Column Positions table in the

tions Data Input pane, which is a spreadsheet table
used to input column positions in Cartesian
(XYZ) coordinates.
Column Dimen- Opens the Column Dimensions table in

sions the Data Input pane, which is a spreadsheet
table used to specify the depth and width of
the columns at each support location and
pedestal information, if any
Linear Grid Setup and Table form

Used to define a linear grid on which geometry can be graphically created.
Opens when Foundation Plan > Linear Grid Setup is selected in the
Main Navigator pane.
Note: STAAD Foundation will display only a single grid in the Geometry
tab of the main view window. Creating a new grid will replace any existing
grid. Any foundations, loads, or other model objects placed on this grid
will not be affected, though.
Note: The display of grids can be toggled using the Grid Toggle tool found
in the Trans Rotate toolbar.
User Manual — 83
A grid allows you to specify your foundation geometry by snapping to the
intersections of the grid lines.
Origin X / Y / Z
Specify the origin coordinates for the grid, in the specified units.
Spacing X / Y
Specify the uniform spacing to be used (in the length Unit specified for
Origin). By default, the grid lines are spaced equally apart. Individual grid
line spacing may be edited in the Linear Grid table.
Lines left/right of origin
Specify the number of linear grid lines to be generated along the X axis,
either side of the origin (Left = negative x axis, Right = positive x axis).
Lines top/bottom of origin
Specify the number of linear grid lines to be generated along the Z axis,
either side of the origin (top = negative z axis, bottom = positive z axis).
Grid direction
Toggles the values displayed in the Linear Grid table for the current grid.
Select X or Z to display the grid line spacing along that axis.
Show Grid
Select Yes to toggle the grid on after it has been Generated.
Note: The display of grids can be toggled using the Grid Toggle tool
found in the Trans Rotate toolbar.
Save as Default
Save the linear grid settings as defaults for later use.
Linear Grid table
Displays the spacing between grid lines.
Additional grid lines (rows in the table) can be added using the Insert
After and Insert Before buttons.
Generate Grid
Click to generate the linear grid with the specified geometry.
Insert After
Click to insert new row of data in the table after the selected row.
Insert Before
Click to insert a new row of grid data in the table before the selected row.
Delete
Click to delete the selected table row(s).
Radial Grid Setup and Table form

Used to define a radial grid on which geometry can be graphically created.
Opens when Foundation Plan > Radial Grid Setup is selected in the
Note: STAAD Foundation will display only a single grid in the Geometry
tab of the main view window. Creating a new grid will replace any existing
grid. Any foundations, loads, or other model objects placed on this grid will
not be affected, though.
User Manual — 85
Origin X / Y / Z
Specify the origin coordinates for the grid, in the specified units.
Inner / Outer radius
Specify the radius values for the first and last circumferential grid line.
Divisions along the circumference
Specify the number of radial grid lines to be generated.
Divisions along the radius
Specify the number of divisions of the radius. Since all radius lines ter-
minate at the specified origin (center), the number of circumferential grid
lines will be one less than this value.
Grid direction
Toggles the values displayed in the Radial Grid table for the current grid.
l Radial - Displays the angle of each radial grid line, in degrees. Radial
grid line spacing is measured counter-clockwise (anti-clockwise) from
the positive X axis (from grid origin).
l Circumferential - Displays the radial spacing of each circumferential
grid line, in the
Show Grid
Select Yes to toggle the grid on after it has been Generated.
Note: The display of grids can be toggled using the Grid Toggle tool
found in the Trans Rotate toolbar.
Save as Default
Save the radial grid settings as defaults for later use.
Radial Grid table
Displays the spacing between grid lines.
Additional grid lines (rows in the table) can be added using the Insert
After and Insert Before buttons.
Generate Grid
Click to generate the radial grid with the specified geometry.
Insert After
Click to insert new row of data in the table after the selected row.
Insert Before
Click to insert a new row of grid data in the table before the selected row.
Delete
Click to delete the selected table row(s).
User Manual — 87
Column Positions table
A spreadsheet table used to input column positions in Cartesian (XYZ)
coordinates.
Opens when Foundation Plan > Column Positions is selected in the
After column coordinates are entered, the columns along with their respective
node numbers are displayed in the Graphics Window. The tab key or arrow
keys may be used to move from one cell to the next in the table. The
coordinates in the table can be modified like any spreadsheet. In order to
delete a column, select the column in the Graphics Window by clicking on it.
Then either press the delete key on your keyboard or select Edit > Delete.
Note: A column will not be shown in the Graphics Window until you press
<Enter> or click outside of the row you are currently in.
Note: Initially, all unassigned footings will appear as spread footings of

uniform size in the Main View window. The graphics will update once the
footing type has been assigned.
Column Dimensions table

A spreadsheet table used to specify the depth and width of the columns at
each support location and pedestal information, if any. Column or pedestal
dimensions are needed to check punching shear for a mat foundation. For all
other footing types these dimensions will be used to calculate critical design
forces.
The unit used for this form is set through the Unit Setup tool on the Home
ribbon tab.
Note: This table allows you to quickly enter in data for multiple columns
and pedestals. To provide data for a single column, you can use the Set
Column Dimensions tool on the Home ribbon tab.
Opens when Foundation Plan > Column Dimensions is selected in the

If the column type is Circular, Column Width field will be grayed out.
By default, the program considers that there is no pedestal. If a particular
column location has a pedestal, you can select Yes radio button under
Consider Pedestal field. Doing so makes depth and width columns editable.
Note: For an Octagonal Footing in General Mode, only the following values
are used: Column Depth/Dia, Pedestal Height, and Pedestal
Depth/Dia (i.e., Column Widht and Pedestal Width are ignored).
2.2.3 Loads & Factors group

Used to define the loads on a foundation by creating load cases, loads,
combination loads, and safety factors for load cases.
Many of the elements in the Load & Factors group open items in the Load
pane. See "Using Loads, Load Cases, and Load Combinations" on page 92 for
additional information on using this window element.
A "support" in STAAD Foundation is in fact a node where loads are transferred
from the superstructure (analyzed in other software) to the substructure,
analyzed and designed in STAAD Foundation. Loads in STAAD Foundation are
generated as support reactions in structural analysis software (such as
STAAD.Pro). The boundary conditions assumed during the analysis will dictate
the loads which each support in STAAD Foundation receives. That is, pinned
User Manual — 89
versus fixed (and any other boundary conditions) are inherent in the applied
loads here and are not actually set in STAAD Foundation.
Similarly, the type of analysis performed in the analysis software (i.e., static,
dynamic, time history, etc.) does not matter to the loads input to STAAD
Foundation.
Table 2-4: Loads & Factors group items
Name Description
Create New Opens the Create New Load Case form in

Load Case the Load pane, which is used to create and
edit load cases.
Add a Column Opens the Add a Column Reaction Load

Reaction Load form in the Load pane, which is used to
create a nodal load acting on support.
Add Load for Opens the Add Point Load form in the
Mat Foun- Load pane, which is used to create a point
dation > Point load on a mat foundation.
Load
Add Load for Opens the Add Line Load form in the Load
Mat Foun- pane, which is used to create a linear load
dation > Line on a mat foundation.
Load
Add Load for Opens the Add Quadrilateral Load form

Mat Foun- in the Load pane, which is used to create a
dation quadrilateral load on a mat foundation.
> Quadrilateral
Load
Add Load for Opens the Add Circular Pressure Load

Mat Foun- form in the Load pane, which is used to
dation > Cir- create a circular load on a mat foundation.
cular Pressure
Load
Add Member Opens the Add Uniform Load form in the

Load > Uni- Load pane, which is used to create a uni-
form Load form member load.
Add Member Opens the Add Concentrated Load form
Name Description
Load > Con- in the Load pane, which is used to create a

centrated Load concentrated member load.
Add Member Opens the Add Trapezoidal Load form in

Load > Trape- the Load pane, which is used to create a lin-
zoidal Load early varying member load.
Apply Self Opens the Self Weight dialog, which is

Weight used to add mat foundation element self
weight.
Load Safety Opens the Applied Load Safety Factor

Factor Table form in the Load pane, which is used to
assign safety factors for serviceability and
design.
Soil Bearing Opens the Soil Bearing Capacity Factor

Capacity Fac- form in the Load pane, which is used to
tors assign safety factors.
Create New Opens the Create Load Combination

Load Com- form in the Load pane, which is used to
bination create a new Load Combination.
Generate Load Opens the Load Combination Input

Combination dialog, which is used to generate a set of
load combinations based on common
Remove Load Removes the current load case, load,

Case or load combination selected in the
Load Selector list (found in the Standard
toolbar). A dialog opens to confirm the
deletion.
Warning: Deletion of Load

Combinations cannot be undone.
Note: The load can also be selected in

the Load Description tree (Load pane).
User Manual — 91
Using Loads, Load Cases, and Load Combinations
Load Selector List (Home ribbon tab)
Used to select the current load case. Click the down arrow to display a list of
all load cases in the current job.
Load Description Tree
Located in the top portion of the Load pane. Used to display all load cases,
loads, and load combinations contained in a project.
Assigning Loads
STAAD Foundation provides several different methods for assigning loads to

foundation model objects. These tools are available in forms within the Load
pane.
Assignment Method list

Used to choose the method of assignment and contains the following
methods and commands:
l Assign to View - assigns the selected load to all relevant objects in

the Graphics Window.
l Assign to Selection - assigns the selected load to only those relevant

objects that are selected in the Graphics Window. Refer to Selection
tools for how to select objects.
l Assign to Edit List - assigns the selected load to only those objects
that are inputted in the column list edit box.
Assign Load
Assigns the selected load using the Assignment Method chosen.
Adding a load using pop-up menu
1. Right click on a Load Case in the Load Description Tree.

A pop-up menu opens to display a list of load actions.
2. Select the new load type to be added to this Load Case.
3. Enter in load parameters and add the load, similar to when an action is
selected from the Loads & Factors group in the Main Navigator pane.
Deleting a load case from the active project file
Used to remove an entire Load Case or a specific load item from the project
file.
1. Select the Load Case or load entry in the Load Description tree you wish
deleted.
2. Click on Loads & Factors > Remove Load Case entry in the Main
Navigation pane.
A dialog opens to confirm you want to delete the selected load from the
project file.
3. Click Yes.
Warning: This action may not be undone.
Create New Load Case form

Used to create and edit load cases.
Opens when Loads & Factors > Create New Load Case is selected in the
Main Navigation pane.
User Manual — 93
Add
Click to create the new load case once all parameters have been set
below.
Assignment selection list
Used to select which method used for assigning the selected load case.
Assign Load
Click to assign the selected load by the method selected.
Column list
Enter in a list of elements to assign the load case to.
Load Title
A title can be any text string to describe the load.
Load Case Type
Select one of the following load types to use:
l Primary - used for both serviceability and factored design. both the
serviceability and design factors will automatically be set to unity (1).
l Service - used only for serviceability checks to calculate footing

dimensions.
l Ultimate - used for shear checks and reinforcement design
Copy Load
All load items from a previously defined load case will be copied into the
new load case once Add is clicked. Enter the Load Case number into the
Add Self Weight
Select Yes to add self weight of Mat foundation for analysis.
Note: This option is relevant for Mat foundation design. For all other
footing types like Isolated, Combined; the program automatically
calculates and adds self weight as appropriate.
Adding a new load case to a project
1. Select Create New Load Case in the Loads & Factors section of the Main
Navigator pane.
The Load Description pane opens.
2. Enter a Load Title and press the Enter key.
3. Select the Load Case Type and Loading Type.
4. (Optional) If you are copying an existing load, select the Load Case No to
copy.
5. (For Mat Only) Specify Self Weight data.
6. Click Add.
The new load case is automatically assigned a number and appears in the
Load Description Tree (along with Title, if provided).
Add a Column Reaction Load form

Used to create or edit nodal load acting on support.
Opens when Loads & Factors > Add a Column Reaction Load is
selected in the Main Navigation pane.
User Manual — 95
Creating a reaction load
1. Select a load case either in the Load Description tree or using the Load
Case Selector list in the Standard toolbar.
2. Select the Force and Moment Units to use for the load.
3. Specify the magnitude of the forces (Fx, Fy, Fz) and moments (Mx, My,
Mz).
Hint: Press the Enter key after each value to lock the value in the
field. Use the mouse to move the cursor from field to field, in any
order.
4. Click Add.
The load is added to the load case.
Note: Load direction follows right hand rule, so a positive Fy value will
create a tensile (or uplift) force at the support location.
Add a Point Load form

Used to create a concentrated load on a mat.
Note: Point loads are for mat foundations only.
Opens when Loads & Factors > Add Load for Mat Foundation > Point
Load is selected in the Main Navigation pane.
Creating a point load
2. Select the Force and Moment Units to use for the load.
3. Specify the magnitude of the forces (Fx, Fy, Fz) and moments (Mx, My,
Mz)
4. Specify load positions (X, Y, Z) and coordinate units.
5. Click Add.
Note: The Y Loading Position must correspond to the elevation of the

foundation supports.
Add a Quadrilateral Load form

Used to create a quadrilateral load. Quadrilateral Loads are plate pressure
load and only applicable to mat foundations.
Note: Quadrilateral loads are for mat foundations only.
User Manual — 97
Opens when Loads & Factors > Add Load for Mat Foundation
> Quadrilateral Load is selected in the Main Navigation pane.
Creating a quadrilateral load
2. Select the Pressure and Position Units to use for the load.
3. Specify the magnitude of the uniform Pressure.
4. Define the area (footprint) of the load by specifying coordinates of the
quadrilateral figure (x1, x2, x3, x4, z1, z2, z3, z4).
5. Specify a Y Position value to indicate the elevation at which the load is
applied.
Note: The Y Loading Position must correspond to the elevation of

the foundation supports.
6. Click the Add button.

Add a Circular Pressure Load form

Used to create a Circular Load.
Note: Circular Pressure loads are for mat foundations only.
Opens when Loads & Factors > Add Load for Mat Foundation
> Circular Pressure Load is selected in the Main Navigation pane.
Creating a circular load
2. Select the Pressure and Position Units to use for the load.
3. Specify the magnitude of the uniform pressure.
4. Define the area (footprint) of the load by specifying enter coordinates
(Center X, Center Z) and a Radius for the circle.
applied.

6. Specify the No. of Divisions by which the circle will be divided.
User Manual — 99
Note: STAAD Foundation does not actually create a true circular
boundary for a Circular Load. Instead, the program simulates a circle
through the use of pie-shaped wedges as shown in the figure below.

Add a Line Load form

Used to create a Line Load. Line Loads are distributed linear load and only
applicable to mat foundations.
Note: Point loads are for mat foundations only.
Opens when Loads & Factors > Add Load for Mat Foundation > Line
Load is selected in the Main Navigation pane.

Creating a line load
2. Select the Force and Position Units to use for the load.
3. Specify the magnitude of the uniform Force.
4. Define start and end points of the line by specifying the Starting X, Start-
ing Z, Ending X, Ending Z.
applied.


Add Uniform Load form

Clicking on the Add Uniform Load leaf opens a form in data area pane that
allows you to create a uniform load on physical beams.
Note: Uniform loads are for physical members only.
User Manual — 101

Creating a uniform beam load
3. Specify the magnitude of the uniform Force (W) and Direction in
which to apply the force.
Note: Direction can be in either global or local coordinates.
4. Define start and end locations along the member by specifying the Start
Distance (d1) and End Distance (d2).
If left both are left as zero, the load is placed along the entire length of
the beam.
Add Concentrated Load form

Used to create a concentrated load on physical beams.

Creating a concentrated load on a beam
3. Specify the magnitude of the concentrated Force (P) and Direction in
which to apply the force.
4. Define the distance from the start of the beam to the load in the
Position field.
Add Trapezoidal Load form

Used to create a trapezoidal load on physical beams.
User Manual — 103

Creating a trapezoidal beam load
3. Specify the magnitude of the force at start (Force (W1)) and end (
Force (W2)) of the load, along with the Direction in which to apply
the force.
4. Define start and end locations along the member by specifying the Start
Distance (d1) and End Distance (d2).
If left both are left as zero, the load is placed along the entire length of
the beam.
Applied Load Safety Factors form

Used to assign serviceability and design factors for each load case in a project.
The serviceability factor will be applied when checking the base pressure of a
foundation (geotechnical design). The design factor will be used for shear and
reinforcement design.

Note: By default, STAAD Foundation assigns values for the safety factors
depending on the load type.
Opens when Loads & Factors > Load Safety Factor Table is selected in
the Main Navigator pane.
The default values can be changed by inputting new values into the table like
any spreadsheet.
Hint: The tab key or arrow keys may be used to move from one cell to the
next in the table.
Load types are defined as the following:
l Primary, both the factors will be 1.0.

l Allowable load cases will have Service factor as 1.0 but design factor as 0.0
l Ultimate load cases will have Ultimate factor as 1.0 but service factor as 0.0
Soil Bearing Capacity Factors form

A spreadsheet table used to assign serviceability and design factors for each
load case in a project.
User Manual — 105

By default, STAAD Foundation will assign value as 1 for soil bearing factors
depending on the load type. The default values can be changed by inputting
new values into the table like any spreadsheet. The tab key or arrow keys may
be used to move from one cell to the next in the table.
Based on this table increase or decrease in soil bearing capacity for particular
load case can be achieved. For example, consider than for earthquake load
cases, in many cases by standard practices and code provisions, soil bearing
capacity can be increased by 33%. This can be achieved by entering 1.33 in Soil
Bearing Capacity Factor (Multiplier) column.
Note: Soil bearing Capacity Factors are not applicable to mat foundation
module
Load Combination form

Used to create factored algebraic load combinations. These combinations are
automatically numbered and will appear in the Load Description Tree after all
primary Load Cases.

Load Case No
This field is automatically incremented with each new load combination.
Load Combination Title
Enter a description for the new combined load such as “Dead Load + Live
Load”.
Combination Type
Select Allowable Stress of Ultimate Strength type.
Available Primary Load Cases list
Includes all load cases created in the active project file.
User Manual — 107

Table 2-5: Load Selector tools
Click
this to
button
Include load cases selected in the Available Pri-

mary Load Cases list in the Load Combination
Definition list below.
Include all available load cases in the Load Com-

bination Definition list below. All primary load
cases will have the same
Factor
applied.
Remove the selected load cases from the Load

Combination Definition list below.
Remove all load cases in the Load Combination

Definition list below.
Factor
Specify the factor with which the selected Primary Load Cases are to be
multiplied.
Load Combination Input dialog box

Used to automatically generate sets of load combinations based on design
codes.

Load Combination Table

Select either of the two code specified load combinations or input your
own.
l ASCE 7-05
l NBCC 05
l Indian
l British
l Australian
l GB50001-2001
l User defined
Update Table
Default load combinations are saved in external data files (ACILOAD.INI
files). Clicking the Update Table button saves any changes made to the
associated table to the file as a default. Otherwise, any changes are saved
in the active project file only.
Delete
Removes the selected row (load combination) from the associated table.
User Manual — 109

Note: To delete any combination from the default list (kept in an
external .INI file) you need to click the Update Table button after
deleting.
Allowable Load Combination and Ultimate Load Combination tables

Allowable load combinations are load combinations used to check soil
pressure and optimize footing plan dimensions. Ultimate load
combinations are load combinations used to check for shear and design
for reinforcement. The cells represent the factors to be added with the
primary load cases, depending upon the rules of the US Standard.
Each row in a table represents the ID for a different load combination.
l Index - The first column indicates the index of the load com-
bination.
l toggle - Select the check boxes of the combination which you want
to use.
l Load Type columns - Primary Load cases are assigned a load type,
each of which is represented by a separate column in the load
combination tables. Enter the load combination factor for a given
load type in the cell.
Hint: The cell with zero values appears in gray color where as
with values other than zero it appears in blue.
To add a new load combination to the table, add factors to the last
(empty) row.
Note: To add or change any combination from the default list (kept
in an external .INI file) you need to click the Update Table button
after making changes.
Hint: Custom Load types can be created using User Type <#>. Up to
six custom types may be used.
Generate Load Combination

Adds the load combinations with the specified factors from the
associated table to the Load Description Tree. The child node of each
load combination node will represent the Load Case and the factors
multiplied with it.

Note: A dialog opens to confirm that the set of load combinations

have been generated.
Load Combination No
The load combination number starts from 101 and you can also give load
combination number of your own choice. If the number exists, the load
combination number is automatically incremented with each new load
combination as “Load Comb” and the number.
Add Self Weight & Modify Dead Weight Factor

dialog box
Used to toggle self weight for the selected or all load cases and to specify self
weight factors. This self weight definition is only applicable for Mat foundation
as the program does not add self weight of the mat slab by default. For other
types of footing like isolated or combined footing program automatically adds
self weight for all service load cases. This self weight definition may be used to
override default self weight settings for load cases including dead loads.
User Manual — 111

Select All
Set this option to include all primary load cases.
OK
Closes the dialog and instruct the program to consider self weight for any
load cases with Include option set.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without considering self weight in any load cases.
Add self weight to mat foundations
1. Select Loads & Factors > Apply Self Weight from the Main
Navigation pane.
or
Select the Self Weight tool from the Tools ribbon tab.
The Add Self Weight & Modify Dead Weight Factor dialog box opens
containing a list of all load cases.
2. Select the Include check box for each load case to have Self Weight
included.
Hint: At the bottom of the dialog there is a control to toggle the

selection of all load cases.
3. Specify a Factor by which to multiply the program-calculated self weight

and/or dead weight.
This is set to unity (1) by default. Factor values will be used to for load
combinations. For service load combinations self weight will be
multiplied by the corresponding factor of that load combination. This
factor governs both the foundation self weight as well as the weight of
soil above a mat foundation.
4. Click on OK to assign/un-assign self weight.
Hint: Self Weight and factors can also be set for individual load cases
when load cases are created or selected in the Load Description Tree.
2.3 Job Setup group

The link between global and local data is Job Setup, where you can create
different footing job types. You can create as many jobs as needed within a
single project file, including multiple jobs with same footing type.

Table 2-6: Items in the Job Setup

Item Description
Create Opens the Job Info and Loading forms in the Data
a New Input pane, which are used to input basic job data for
Job creating a new foundation job.
Edit Opens the Job Info and Loading forms in the Data
Job Input pane, which are populated with the basic job
and load data for the current job.
Delete Opens the Delete Job form in the Data Input pane,
Job which is used to remove jobs from the project file.
2.3.1 Creating a New Job

1. Click on Job Setup > Create a New job entry in the Main Navigation
pane.
The Job Info and Loading forms open in the Data Input pane.
2. Specify Job Name, Job Type, Design Code, and Default Unit Type in
the Job Info form.
3. Select the project supports to be included in the new job.
4. Select load cases to be included in the new job.
5. Click Create Job.
The newly created job is set as the current job.
Job Info form

Used to input basic job data for creating a new foundation job. The job data
consists of the Job Info and Loading forms.
Opens when either Create a New Job or Edit Current Job is selected in the
User Manual — 113

Job Name
Used to uniquely identify each job. You can enter any string here.
Job Type
Used to define the foundation type for the new job. In current version
we support 5 different types of footing which are
l Isolated - Create a spread footing at each selected support node.

l Pile Cap - Create a pile cap at each selected support node.
l Mat - Create a matt
l Combined - Create strip footings from two or more support nodes. A
single job can contain multiple strip footings.
l Octagonal
l Strap
Design Code
Used to define concrete code to be used. The following codes are
supported:
l US - ACI 318-05
l Britain - BS 8110
l Indian - IS 456-2000
l Australian - AS 3600-2004
l Canadian - CSA 23.3-04
l Chinese - GB50007-2002
l Europe - Eurocode 2 (EN 1992 Design of concrete structures)
Default Unit Type
Used to setup default design parameters of the job. The program
supports both FPS and SI unit systems. You can select any combination
of design code and default unit type. In other words user can choose US

design code with SI unit system.

Support Assignment
Used to assign supports to a job. There are three assignment methods
l Assign to All Supports - assigns all supports to the current job

l Assign to Selected Supports - assign all selected supports in the main
view to the current job
l Assign to Listed Supports - When selected, the Listed Supports field
becomes active.
Listed Supports
Used in conjunction with the Assign to Listed Supports method for
Support Assignment. Type the support numbers to be assigned to the
current job.
Loading form
Available Load Cases list
Includes all load cases created in the active project file.
Table 2-7: Load Selector tools
Click
this but- to
ton
Include load cases selected in the Available Load

Cases list in the Selected Load Cases list below.
Include all available load cases in the Selected Load

Cases list below.
Remove the selected load cases from the Selected

Load Cases list below.
Remove all load cases in the Selected Load Cases

list below.
Selected Load Cases list
Loads added to this will be available for the new job.
Create Job
Creates a new job a new job with the specified parameters.
User Manual — 115

Strip Footing list
If the selected Job Type is Combined or Strap, an additional set of

controls become available which will be used to define a strip footing
from individual supports. These controls become active once the Create
Job is clicked for a Combined footing.
Create from Selected Nodes

Select two or more collinear supports in main view and then click on
“Create from Selected Nodes” button to add those supports as strip
footing.
Delete
Removes a selected strip/combined footing from the job.
Delete All
Removes all strip/combined footings from the job.
2.3.2 Editing the current job

1. Select the job you want to edit in the Job Selection list found in the
Standard toolbar.
2. Click on Job Setup > Edit Current job entry in the Main Navigation
pane.
3. Change any parameter except for Job Type.
4. Select the project supports to be included in the new job.
Note: No matter what method you initially used to assign supports,

the current supports will given in a list.
5. Select load cases to be included in the new job.

6. Click Change Job.

2.3.3 Deleting a job from the active

project file
1. Click on Job Setup > Delete Job entry in the Main Navigation pane.
The Delete job form opens in the Data Input pane.
2. Select the Job name which you want to delete in the job list.
3. Click Delete Job.
A dialog opens to confirm you want to delete the selected job from the
project file.
4. Click Yes.
Delete Job form

Used to remove jobs from the project file.
Jobs list
Displays a list of all jobs contained within the active project file.
Delete Job
Deletes the selected job from the project file. A dialog opens to confirm.
2.4 Local Data

Local Data are specific to job types. Each foundation type has its own unique
local data types. Design parameters such as concrete cover, rebar
specifications, soil parameters and footing geometry are typical examples of
design parameters.
The following foundation types are available in the General Foundation mode:
User Manual — 117

2.4.1 Isolated Footing job
Isolated footing job type has a unique group for local data called Design
Parameters. This group allows you to specify design parameters for the
selected isolated footing and is only active for isolated footing job types.
Note: STAAD Foundation Isolated Footings are assumed to be rectangular

in plan. Isolated footings with irregular shapes can be designed through as
Mat foundation jobs. STAAD Foundation performs Isolated Footing
analysis and design based on rigid analysis methods, for flexible analysis,
please model isolated footings using the Mat Foundation module.
The Design Parameters group contains the following elements:

Table 2-8: Isolated Footing group items
Name Description
Concrete and Opens the Concrete and Rebar form in

Rebar the Data Input pane, which is used to input
concrete and rebar properties for the current
isolated footing job.
Cover and Soil Opens the Cover and Soil form in the Data
Input pane, which is used to input cover
parameters, and soil characteristics, and foot-
ing Bottom or Top Fixed option.
Footing and Opens the Footing and Geometry form in

Geometry the data input pane, which is used to input
isolated footing geometry for the current iso-
lated footing job.
Sliding and Opens the Sliding and Overturning form

Overturning in the data input pane, which is used to
input stability safety factors for the current
Design Initiates the design of the current isolated

footing job. A dialog opens to confirm you
want to proceed.
Detailed Out- (US and Indian codes only) Opens the

put STAAD Foundation Export to Excel file

Name Description
dialog, which is used to save the design out-

put for the isolated footing job in a Micro-
soft Office Excel® spreadsheet (Microsoft
Excel XML file format, with an .xml file
extension).
Concrete and Reinforcement form (Isolated Foot-

ing)
Used to input concrete and rebar properties for the current isolated footing
job.
Opens when Isolated Footing Job > Design Parameters > Concrete and
Rebar is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
Unit Weight of Concrete

Specify a density to be used for concrete (wC), in the selected units.
User Manual — 119

Minimum / Maximum Bar Spacing
Specify the minimum and maximum distances to be allowed between
reinforcing bars, in the selected units.
Strength of Concrete
Specify the ultimate strength of the concrete (f'c), in the selected units.
Yield Strength of Steel
Specify the yield strength of steel reinforcing bars (fy), in the selected
units.
Minimum / Maximum Bar Size
Select the minimum and maximum allowed reinforcing bar sizes to be
used in the design. Sizes listed correspond to the appropriate bar sizes
used in the selected Design Code.
Set as Default
Select Yes to have the current parameter values set as the defaults for
new Isolated Footing: Concrete and Rebar parameters.
Cover and Soil form (Isolated Footing)

Used to input cover parameters and soil characteristics.
Opens when Isolated Footing Job > Design Parameters > Cover and
Soil is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
Soil Type
Select the type of soil supporting the foundation:
l Drained Condition
l Undrained Condition
Bottom Clear Cover

Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the bottom-most

layer of footing reinforcement, in the selected units.
Unit Weight of Soil
Specify a density to be used for the soil, in the selected units.
Soil Bearing Capacity
Specify the allowable bearing capacity of the soil, in the selected units.
Depth of Soil Above Footing
Specify the depth from soil surface to the top of footing, in the selected
units.
Type of Depth
Used to select the direction for incremental depth in design:
l Fixed Top – Top of Footing is fixed in this option, footing thickness
is incremented (if needed) downwards.
l Fixed Bottom – Bottom of Footing is fixed in this option, footing
thickness is incremented (if needed) upwards. Increase in Footing
Thickness reduces soil depth.
Surcharge for Loading
Specify a surcharge loading above the footing, in the selected units.
Depth of Water Table
Specify the depth from soil surface to the water table, in the selected
units.
If water table is not to be considered for this footing,
Cohesion
(Drained soil type) Specify a cohesion pressure, in the selected units.
Undrained Shear Strength
(Undrained soil type) Specify a shear strength for the soil, in the selected
units.
Min % of Contact Area
Specify a minimum percent of footing surface area that must remain in
contact with the supporting soil. This is used to limit uplift or
overturning. Enter zero (0) to direct the program to skip this check.
Note: If these requirements are not met, footing design is reported as

failure.
Set as Default
User Manual — 121

new Isolated Footing: Cover and Soil parameters.
Footing Geometry form (Isolated Footing)

Used to input isolated footing geometry for the current isolated footing job.
Opens when Isolated Footing Job > Design Parameters > Footing
Geometry is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
Design Type
There are two types of design one is calculate dimension another is set
dimension:
l Calculate Dimension - The footing size will be checked and resized

to the smallest size which meets all specified loads; ranging between
the minimum and maximum dimensions provided (inclusive). Cal-
culate dimension is set by default.
l Set Dimension - then the minimum dimensions will constitute the
only footing size checked.
l Fixed Width - The Width value is set and the length value will be
optimized.
l Fixed Length - The Length value is set and the width value will be
optimized.
Hint: Separate jobs can be created to design different footings using

different design types.
Minimum Length (Fl)

Specify the minimum length (direction parallel to the X axis) to be used

for the footing design, along with unit.

Minimum Width (Fw)
Specify the minimum width (direction parallel to the Y axis) to be used
for the footing, along with unit.
Minimum Thickness (Ft)
Specify the minimum thickness (direction parallel to the Z axis; or out-of
plan dimension) to be used for the footing, along with unit.
Maximum Length (Fl)
(Calculate only) Specify the maximum length (direction parallel to the X
axis) to be used for the footing design, along with unit.
Maximum Width (Fw)
(Calculate only) Specify the maximum width (direction parallel to the Y
axis) to be used for the footing, along with unit.
Maximum Thickness (Ft)
(Calculate only) Specify the maximum thickness (direction parallel to the
Z axis; or out-of plan dimension) to be used for the footing, along with
unit.
Plan Dimension Inc.
(Calculate only) Specify the length and width increments to be used when
performing footing design, along with unit. This allows you control over
how to step footing sizes in design results.
Thickness Increment
(Calculate only) Specify the thickness increments to be used when
performing footing design, along with unit.
Offset X / Z Direction (Oxd / Ozd)
If the loads do not pass through the CG of the footing, specify the offset
dimension in the X and Z directions (parallel to length and width,
respectively), along with unit. Offsets are measured from the centroid of
the foundation plan.
Note: These values may be entered as negative, so the support offset

can be placed in any quadrant of the isolated footing. Overturning
checks for the governing direction automatically by the program.
Length Width Ratio

(Calculate Dimension only) Specify a plan aspect ratio to control the
relative length and width of the footing design.
User Manual — 123

For example, a value of one results in a square footing where as a value
of two results in a footing twice as long along the X axis as the Z axis
width.
Set as Default
new Isolated Footing: Footing Geometry parameters.
Sliding and Overturning form (Isolated Footing)

Used to input stability safety factors for the current isolated footing job.
Opens when Isolated Footing Job > Design Parameters > Sliding and
Overturning is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
Coefficient of Friction
Specify a coefficient value of friction between the soil and concrete.
Factor of Safety Against Sliding
Specify a factor of safety against sliding.
Factor of Safety against Overturning

Specify a factor of safety against overturning.
National Annexure form (Isolated Footing)

Used to input concrete and rebar properties for the current isolated footing
job.
Opens when Isolated Footing Job > Design Parameters > National
Annexure is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
AlphaCC
Specify the coefficient to account for the long term effects on the
compressive strength of concrete and any unfavorable effects due to the
method of application of external loads.
CRdc
Used to calculate the design shear resistance as per equation 6.2.a of the
code. If not specified, a default value of 0.18/γc is used.
Vmin
Specify a minimum shear strength value if necessary, per section 6.2.2.1
of the code. If none is provided, then the shear resistance is calculated
per the equations provided in EC2.
AlphaCT
Specify the coefficient to account for the long term effects on the tensile
User Manual — 125

strength of concrete and any unfavorable effects due to the method of
application of external loads.
fctk
The characteristic axial tensile strength of concrete used in calculating
development length of reinforcing bars.
Min % of Steel
Specify a minimum steel ratio .
Designing an isolated footing

1. Select Isolated Footing Job > Design.
or
Click the Design / Analysis tool on the Home ribbon tab.
The Design Progress Report is displayed in the Output pane. When the
design is complete, a summary of the design is displayed on the Isofoot
Design Summary tab in the Output pane and the Calculation Sheet is
opened to review the design calculations.
Note: After a successful analysis/design, you may want to print the

calculation sheet.
2.4.2 Pile Cap job

The Pile Cap Job group allows you to specify pile arrangement for each pile
cap and design parameters and is only active for pile cap job types.
The Pile Cap Job group contains the following elements:
Table 2-9: Pile Cap group items
Name Description
Design Param- Opens the Design Parameters form in the

eters Data Input pane, which is used to input
standard design control parameters for use
in designing pile caps.
Pile Layout Opens the Pile Cap (Predefined) form in

(Predefined) the Data Input pane, which is used to spec-
ify pile arrangement for a pile cap using a
set of predefined pile layout. Using the
predefined layouts, the program can auto-

Name Description
matically choose the best possible pile

arrangement.
Pile Layout Opens the Pile Cap (Parametric) form in

(Parametric) the data input pane, which is used to specify
pile arrangement for a pile cap by specifying
a rectangular or circular pile arrangement.
Design Initiates the design of the current pile cap

job. A dialog opens to confirm you want to
proceed.
Design Parameters form (Pile Cap)

Used to input standard design control parameters for use in designing pile
caps.
Opens when Pile Cap Job > Design Parameters is selected in the Main
Navigator pane.
User Manual — 127

units.
Side Cover (Cs)
Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the sides of the pile
cap reinforcement, in the selected units.
Bottom Clear Cover (Cb)
layer of pile cap reinforcement above the piles, in the selected units.
Pile in Pile Cap (Cp)
The distance from the bottom of the pile cap to the top of the piles, in
the selected units.
Initial Thickness

The minimum thickness used in design, in the selected units.

Set as Default
new Pile Cap: Design Parameters.
Pile Layout (Predefined) form (Pile Cap)

Used to specify pile arrangement for a pile cap using a set of predefined pile
layout. Using the predefined layouts, the program can automatically choose the
best possible pile arrangement.
Opens when Pile Cap Job > Design Parameters > Concrete and Rebar
is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
User Manual — 129

Pile Arrangement for Support
Select a support from the current job for which you would like to input
pile arrangement.

Pile Capacity
The Pile Capacity group box allows you to input the forces that a pile is meant
to bear.
Unit
Select the force unit used for Pile Capacity parameters.
Lateral
Specify the lateral force a pile is meant to bear.
Vertical
Specify the vertical force a pile is meant to bear.
Uplift
Specify the uplifting force a pile is meant to bear.
Pile Dia
Diameter of a pile, in the selected units.
Spacing
Spacing between piles, in the selected units.
Edge Distance
Distance between the edges of the pile cap and edge piles, in the selected
units.
Show Loading on Support
Opens the Load Table for Support <#> dialog, which displays the
total loading on the support for each load case selected under Support for
Pile Arrangement.
Pile Arrangement Type
Select to have the program generate an Auto Arrangement list or to specify a

Manual Arrangement in the pile arrangement table. The Pile Arrangement
Type group box allows you to input the coordinates for a pile arrangement or
have STAAD Foundation calculate a pile arrangement automatically.
Auto Arrangement
The Auto Arrangement radio option allows you to have STAAD
Foundation calculate the pile arrangement.
Manual Arrangement
pile arrangement table
User Manual — 131

This table displays the plan distances from the center of the column (at
local origin) to the center of each pile. When the Manual Arrangement
option is selected, each pile location must be manually entered. If the
Auto Arrangement is selected, the table displays the local pile coordinates
for the selected arrangement.
Calculate
When Auto Arrangement has been selected, this button opens the
Predefined Pile Arrangement dialog, which is used to select one of the
predefined pile arrangements selected for the specified loads, pile
geometry, and pile capacity. Pile arrangements correspond to the pile
loads in all the load cases according to the BOCA standard.
Delete Selected Rows

Removes the selected rows from the pile arrangement table
Select Arrangement
Assigns the current pile arrangement for the design of the pile cap.
Note: If you are using the predefined pile layout method, do not
enter any values into the Pile Layout (Parametric) page. Simply click
Finish.
Show Pile Reactions

Opens the Pile Reactions Table for Support <#> dialog for the selected
support and pile arrangement.

Load Table for Support No <#> dialog
Displays the load vectors, by load case, for a selected support.

Opens when Show Loading on Support is clicked in the Pile Arrangement
Predefined form.
User Manual — 133

Pile Layout (Parametric) form (Pile Cap)
Used to specify pile arrangement for a pile cap by specifying a rectangular or
circular pile arrangement.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Default Properties is selected in the
Note: If a circular arrangement is chosen, the program will design an

octagonal pile cap.

Used to select a support from the current job for which you would like to
input pile arrangement.
Spacing selection
Select to use either a Row Spacing or Column spacing for Rectangular
layout.
Pile Data
Used to input the forces that a pile is meant to bear.
Unit
The Unit drop-down list box allows you to select the force unit used for
Pile Capacity and length unit used for spacing, diameter, edge distance
etc.
Lateral
Specify the lateral capacity of a pile.
Vertical
Specify the vertical capacity of a pile.
Uplift
Specify the uplifting capacity of a pile.
Dia
Diameter of a pile.
Edge
The Edge Distance field allows you to specify the distance between the
edges of a pile.
Arrangement Type
Pile arrangement can be either rectangular or circular. Pile cap having
circular arrangement will be design as octagonal pile cap.
Rectangular arrangement needs following inputs,
l Number of Rows
l Number of Columns
l Row Spacing
l Column Spacing
By default program will create symmetric pile arrangement from the
above input but user can change the default setup by editing the table
below. Both row and column grid lines can be adjusted by selecting
appropriate radio button.
Circular arrangement needs following inputs as shown below.
User Manual — 135

l Number of Piles – Total number of piles, excluding the center pile (if
option is selected).
l Number of Layers – Number of concentric circles in the circular
arrangement.
l Pile Spacing – Minimum spacing between piles
l Use Center Pile – Select this option to add a pile at center of pile
arrangement.
By default, program will try to assign equal number of piles for all
concentric circular layers. The arrangement can be edited using the table
below.
Create Pile Arrangement
Creates the pile layout and opens a dialog box to display the pile
coordinates table and a figure.
Note: Pile coordinates in this table are editable.
Delete Row - Click to delete the current row from the pile coordinate
table and figure.
Select Current Arrangement
Once a satisfactory pile layout has been found, click the Select Current
Arrangement button to select and apply that layout.
The program will check the pile reaction against pile capacity to make
sure pile reactions do not exceed pile capacity values.
Show Pile Reactions
The Show Pile Reactions button opens a table displaying the reaction on
each pile. The figure below shows the pile reaction table.

spacing type and table

Once a pile arrangement is started, the table displays the spacing for each
row, column, layer, or circumference; depending on what arrangement type
and table spacing type is selected.
Designing a Pile Cap

1. Select Pile Cap Job > Design.
or
Click the Design / Analysis tool in the Standard toolbar.
design is complete, a summary of the design is displayed on the Pile Cap
Design Summary tab in the Output pane and the Calculation Sheet is
opened to review the design calculations.
User Manual — 137

calculation sheet.
2.4.3 Mat Foundation group

Used to create mat boundary, meshing and specify analysis and design
parameters to analyze and design mat slab. Mat module uses finite element
analysis technique for accurate results. The modeling of mat foundations is
done through physical modeling.
Note: Rectangular Mat foundation jobs can also be created quickly using
the Mat Foundation Modeling wizard.
The Mat foundation Job group contains following groups:

Table 2-10: Project Info group items

Group Name Description
Default Prop- Opens the Default Prop-

erties erties form in the Data
to define default physical
model object properties.
Physical Beam Opens the Physical Beam

table table in the Data Input
pane, which is used to add
beams to a mat foundation
for additional stiffness and
load transfer.
Pile Layout Pile Position Opens the Pile Position

table table in the Data Input
input pile locations by coor-
dinates.
Rectangular Opens the Rectangular

Pile Arrange- Pile Arrangement par-
ment Wizard ametric form in the data
(Parametric) input pane, which is used
to create rectangular pile
layout by specifying arrange-
ment parameters.
Circular Pile Opens the Circular Pile

Arrangement Arrangement parametric
Wizard (Par- form in the data input
ametric) pane, which is used to
create circular pile layout
by specifying arrangement
parameters.
User Manual — 139

Mesh Gen- Add meshing Opens the Using Polyline

eration regions > Using form in the Data Input
Polyline pane, which is used to
create irregularly shaped
regions.
Add meshing Opens the Rectangular

regions Region form in the Data
> Rectangular Input pane, which is used
to create rectangular
regions.
Add meshing Opens the Circular Region

regions form in the Data Input
> Circular pane, which is used to
create circular regions.
Add meshing Opens the Regular Poly-

regions > Reg- gon Region form in the
ular Polygon Data Input pane, which is
to create regular shaped
convex polygonal region.
Meshing Setup Opens the Meshing Setup

organize meshing regions
to define finite element
boundaries and to generate
meshes.

Analysis Prop- Slab Thickness Opens the Slab Thickness

erties form in the Data Input
change the element thick-
ness for the plate elements
in a mesh.
Soil Properties Opens the Soil Properties

change and assign soil prop-
erties for the design of mat
foundations.
Pile Spring Opens the Pile Spring Def-

inition table in the Data
to edit the pile spring con-
stant values for all the piles
present in the current job.
User Manual — 141

Mat slab anal- Analyze Initiates the analysis of the

ysis/ design current mat foundation job
options using the STAAD.Pro
engine. An analyze/design
confirmation dialog opens
to verify you want to pro-
ceed.

Output View Opens the Out-

Options put View
Options form
in the Data
Input pane,
which is used
to control the
display of dif-
ferent sets of
output.
Moment Envel- Opens the

ope Generation Moment Envel-
ope Gen-
eration form
in the Data
Input pane,
which is used
to choose lon-
gitudinal rein-
forcement
directions and
a generate
moment envel-
ope.
Design Param- Opens the

eters Design Param-
eters form in
the Data Input
pane, which is
used to input
design param-
eters, design
current panel
and review
design results.
Reinforcing Opens the

Zoning Reinforcing
User Manual — 143

Zoning form
in the Data
Input pane,
which is used
to .
Cut slab by a Opens the Cut

line Slab by a Line
form in the
Data Input
pane, which is
used to draw a
stress diagram
along a spec-
ified section
line and then
design slab
along that line.
Moment Capac- Opens the

ity Check Moment
Capacity
Check form in
the Data Input
pane, which is
used to check
the capacity of
existing mat
slab.

Calculation Displays the cal-

Sheet culation sheet
in the main
view window,
which is used
to review
design steps,
analysis results
and load
values.
Detailed Out- (US and Indian

put codes only)
Opens the
STAAD Foun-
dation Export
to Excel file
dialog, which is
used to save
the design out-
put for the mat
foundation job
in a Microsoft
Office Excel®
spreadsheet
(Microsoft
Excel XML file
format, with an
.xml file exten-
sion).
Mesh Generation
As Mat foundation module is based on FEA analysis, program needs to
generate plate elements. STAAD Foundation has automatic mesh generation
tools and it can generate both quadrilateral and triangular mesh for any shape
and size.
Mesh regions are used to create mat boundaries, holes, control regions etc.
User Manual — 145

Note: Any shape of pedestal can be generated using control regions.
Although pedestal reinforcement (vertical reinforcement) for mat
foundation is not reported by the program.
Delete a mat region
If the mat region has been defined as a boundary, hole, or control region, you
must first delete this definition from the Meshing Setup form.
1. Click the Select Mat Boundary/Region tool in the Select toolbar.
Hint: Mat Regions can be selected using the default pointer, but this
tool limits the selection to only boundaries or regions, reducing the
likelihood of accidental deletions of other model elements.
2. Click anywhere along the boundary edge of the region you want to
delete.
The regions is highlighted in red.
3. Click the Delete tool in the Standard toolbar.
or
Press the [Delete] key.
An delete confirmation dialog opens to verify you want to proceed.
4. Click Yes.
Slab Design
Slab design of a mat foundation is performed using the following Main
Navigation pane entries:
l Moment Envelope Generation

l Design Parameters
l Reinforcing Zoning
Note: Punching shear is checked automatically and reported in the

Calculation Sheet. One way shear is not checked by the program.

Default Properties form (Mat Foundation)

Used to define default physical model object properties.
The STAAD.foundation mat foundation module is based on physical modeling
environment. So, whenever a physical entity is created, properties associated
with that entity will also be created. For example if we create a mat boundary,
properties like slab thickness and soil properties will also be created and
associated to the newly created boundary automatically. While creating these
properties STAAD.foundation takes advantage of default properties setup
options.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Default Properties is selected in the
Slab analysis thickness

This thickness will be used during the slab FEA analysis. This parameter
can have its own unit. This property is especially useful if we you want to
simulate pedestal etc. for stiffness analysis but use the actual slab
thickness for design. This can also be used to input uncracked thickness
for analysis.
Slab design thickness
This thickness will be used during slab design. This parameter can have
User Manual — 147

its own unit. This property is especially useful if we you want to
simulate pedestal etc. for stiffness analysis but use the actual slab
thickness for design. This can also be used to input cracked thickness for
slab design.
Subgrade modulus
Subgrade modulus is a soil property available from geotechnical report.
Program uses this value to calculate spring stiffness under each support
node by multiplying this value with the nodal tributary area.
Beam sectional property
This property will be used to define cross sectional property of the
physical beams added to mat foundation. Current version of the program
can only have rectangular property.
Pile spring values
If the mat is supported by piles you need to create pile layout by adding
piles to mat foundation. Program uses pile as spring support for
analysis. So, program needs to know spring constant for those pile
supports. Ky represents vertical spring constant. Kx and Kz represent
lateral spring constants for respecting X and Z direction.
Physical beam table (Mat Foundation)

Used to add beams to a mat foundation for additional stiffness and load
transfer.
These are referred to as "Physical" beams because you provide model input as
they would physically be constructed. The program will internally decompose
these physical beams in analytical entities for the model. Physical beams are
created between two support nodes. As you enter two support nodes a
physical beam will be created and the default beam sectional property as set
in Default Properties form is assigned. Those values can be edited as
required.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Physical Beam table is selected in
the Main Navigator pane.
Note: The input unit for cross sectional property is displayed in the
column heading. The length unit can be changed by selecting the Set
Input/Output Units tool in the Standard toolbar.

After adding a beam the beam will be displayed in main view area.
Pile Position table (Mat Foundation)

Used to add piles by specifying their (x,y,z) coordinates. As many piles as
needed can be added to a mat foundation job. Whenever a new pile is created,
the program will automatically create default spring values for that pile. Newly
created pile will be displayed in graphics view.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Pile Layout > Pile Position table is
selected in the Main Navigator pane.
User Manual — 149

Hint: When pasting pile position data from an external source (such as a
spreadsheet file), the piles can be arranged according to the pile group to
simplify pile properties assignment.
Rectangular Pile Arrangement Parametric form

(Mat Foundation)
Used to create rectangular pile layout by specifying arrangement parameters.
Unit
Select the length Unit for used for pile row and column spacing.
Number of Rows

Specify the number of rows (piles in a line in the X direction) in the pile
arrangement.
Number of Columns
Specify the number of columns (piles in a line in the Y direction) in the
pile arrangement.
Row Spacing
Minimum spacing between two piles in the same row, in the selected
length Unit.
Column Spacing
Minimum spacing between two piles in the same column, in the selected
length Unit.
Pile Table
above input.
Select either Row Spacing or Column Spacing to display in the table. The
first column represents either the Row or Column number and the second
column displays the spacing between that row/column and the next.
Origin X / Y / Z
Generated pile coordinates will be in local coordinate system where first
pile is at 0,0,0 position. You need to move pile group to the right location
by inputting Origin X, Origin Y and Origin Z.
Apply
Transfers pile layout to graphics and add to the current mat foundation
job. Please do remember to input appropriate origin coordinates to move
the whole pile group to the right position.
Circular Pile Arrangement Parametric form (Mat

Foundation)
Used to create circular pile layout.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Pile Layout > is selected in the Main
Navigator pane.
User Manual — 151

Unit
Select the length Unit for used for pile spacing.
Number of Piles
Total number of piles in pile group.
Number of Circular layers
Number of concentric circular pile layers.
Pile Spacing
Minimum spacing between two piles, in the selected length Unit.
Pile Table
Displays the spacing values used between concentric pile layers. Each
row represents a layer number and the number of piles within that layer.
The program will try to evenly divide the total Number of Piles to all
the layers. Edit these fields to redistribute the piles.

Center Piles
Select this option to add a pile at the center of the circle (coordinate
0,0,0). If you check this box program will automatically add an extra
piles to the total count of number of piles.
above input. It will attempt to place equal number of piles to all layers. It
will create an additional layer for the remainder of piles. User can change
the default setup by editing the layers table as shown below.
Origin X / Y / Z
Generated pile coordinates will be in local coordinate system where
center of the circle is at 0,0,0 position. You need to move pile group to
the right location by inputting Origin X, Origin Y and Origin Z.
Apply
Transfers pile layout to graphics and add to the current mat foundation
job. Please do remember to input appropriate origin coordinates to move
the whole pile group to the right position.
Add Meshing Region > Using Polyline form (Mat

Foundation)
Used to create irregularly shaped regions, which can be used to represent slab
edges in the Meshing Setup.
Opens when Mat Foundation job > Mesh Generation > Add Meshing
Region > Using Polyline is selected.
Note: Polyline regions may be drawn in graphically using the Mat

Boundary by Polyline tool, found in the Select toolbar.
User Manual — 153

No. of Boundary Points
The number of vertices in the polyline boundary.
Generate Table
Populates the table with a number of rows equal to the No. of Boundary
Points specified.
Unit
Select a unit of length for all coordinates in the table.
Polyline coordinates table
Each row represents a polyline vertex. The X,Y, and Z coordinates for
each poly line vertex. Note that coordinates should be specified in a
clockwise or counterclockwise direction to prevent the polyline from
crossing itself (which will in turn produce an error during meshing).
Add Region
Creates a meshing region in the job. The new region will be displayed in
a light blue outline in the View window.
Create a mesh region using the polyline vertex coordinates
1. Select Mat Foundation job > Mesh Generation > Add Meshing Region

> Using Polyline in the Main Navigation pane.
2. Specify the No. of Boundary Points (polyline vertices).
3. Click the Generate Table button.
The table is populated with a number of rows equal to the number of
boundary points specified.
4. Specify a unit of length to be used for coordinate values.

5. Enter the coordinate values in the Polyline vertex coordinates table.
Note: Data in the table can be pasted from Microsoft Excel.
6. Click the Add Region button.

The boundary region is added in the View window.
Draw a mesh region using the Polyline tool
1. Click the Mat Boundary by Polyline tool in the Select toolbar.
The mouse pointer changes to the Polyline tool pointer.

2. Click the first vertex of the polygon.
A line is "rubber banded" to the initial point from your mouse pointer.
This indicates the potential new region edge for the subsequent point. At
times, this will also jump to key points (such as supports) to ensure they
are enclosed. Clicked points will override this behavior.
3. Click, in sequence, on the points on the grid going in either a clockwise or
a counter-clockwise order.
Hint: Only linear or radial grid points may be selected.
4. Once you have clicked on all the points that define the boundary of your
slab, return to your starting point or right-click.
User Manual — 155

Add Meshing Region > Add Rectangular Region
form (Mat Foundation)
Used to create rectangular regions, which can be used to represent slab edges
in the Meshing Setup.
Region > Add Rectangular Region is selected.
Note: Rectangular regions may be drawn in graphically using the Create

Rectangular Mat Boundary tool, found in the Select toolbar.
Note: Rectangular Mat foundation jobs can also be created quickly using
the Mat Foundation Modeling wizard.
Unit
X / Z Coordinate at Top left corner
Specify coordinates for X1,Z1, which is the top-left corner of the
rectangle when viewed in plan (View From Top in the Trans Rotate
toolbar). This locates the rectangular region in plan.
Length / Width
Specify the length (rectangle dimension parallel to the X axis) and width

(rectangle dimension parallel to the Z axis) to define the size of the

rectangular region.
Y Level
Specify an elevation (Y coordinate for all points in the rectangular
region).
Add Region
Creates a meshing region in the job. The new region will be displayed in a
light blue outline in the View window.
Create a rectangular mesh region parametrically

> Add Rectangular Region in the Main Navigation pane.
2. Specify a unit of length to be used for coordinate and length values.
3. Specify X and Z coordinates of the top left corner (in plan).
1 1
4. Specify a Length and Width of the rectangular region.
5. Specify an elevation of the rectangular region.
Hint: This is typically left as zero for most jobs.

Draw a rectangular mesh region
1. Click the Create Rectangular Mat Boundary tool in the Select

toolbar.
The mouse pointer changes to the Rectangle tool pointer.

2. Click the first vertex of the rectangle and hold down the left mouse
button.
A rectangle is "rubber banded" to the initial point from your mouse
pointer. This indicates the potential new region edge for the subsequent
point.
3. Drag the mouse diagonally to the furthest corner of the rectangle.
User Manual — 157

4. Release the mouse button over the second point.
Add Meshing Region > Circular Boundary form

(Mat Foundation)
Used to create circular regions, which can be used to represent slab edges in
the Meshing Setup.
Region > Add Circular Region is selected.
Note: Circular regions may be drawn in graphically using the Create

Circular Mat Boundary tool, found in the Select toolbar.

Unit
X / Z Coordinate at center
Specify coordinates for X,Z, which is the center of the circular region
when viewed in plan (View From Top in the Trans Rotate toolbar). This
locates the circular region in plan.
Radius
Specify the radius to define the size of the circular region.
Y Level
Specify an elevation (Y coordinate for all points in the circular region).
Add Region
Creates a meshing region in the job. The new region will be displayed in a
light blue outline in the View window.
Create a circular mesh region parametrically

> Add Circular Region in the Main Navigation pane.
2. Specify a unit of length to be used for coordinate and length values.
3. Specify the X and Z coordinates of the center (in plan).
4. Specify a radius of the circular region.
5. Specify an elevation of the circular region.
Hint: This is typically left as zero for most jobs.

Draw a circular mesh region
1. Click the Create Circular Mat Boundary tool in the Select toolbar.
The mouse pointer changes to the Circle tool pointer.

2. Click the center of the circle and hold down the left mouse button.
A circle is "rubber banded" to the initial point from your mouse pointer.
This indicates the potential new region edge for the subsequent point.
User Manual — 159

3. Drag the mouse to a grid point to define the edge of the circle.
4. Release the mouse button over the second point.
Add Meshing Region > Regular Polygon form (Mat

Foundation)
Used to create regular shaped convex polygonal regions, which can be used to
represent slab edges in the Meshing Setup.
Region > Regular Polygon is selected.

Center X / Y / Z
Specify coordinates for X and Z, which are the center of the polygon when
viewed in plan (View From Top in the Trans Rotate toolbar). This locates
the rectangular region in plan. The Y coordinate is to specify an elevation
of the polygon. Input in the default length units.
Radius
Circular radius of the polygon where radius is the distance measured
between center and each vertex of the polygon. Input in the default length
units.
Number of Sides
Number of polygon sides. For example enter 8 for an octagonal shaped
polygon.
Orientation Angle
Rotation angle of the polygon. Enter in a value directly or use the
up/down arrows to increment the value in the field.
Generate
User Manual — 161

Creates a preview of the polygon for display in the Region Preview area
below.
Add Region
Creates a meshing region in the job. The new region will be displayed in
a light blue outline in the View window.
Create a regular polygon mesh region parametrically

> Regular Polygon in the Main Navigation pane.
2. Specify X and Z coordinates of the center (in plan).
3. (Optional) Specify a Y coordinate if the region will be added a different
elevation.
4. Specify a radius of the regular polygon region.
5. Specify the Number of Sides of the regular polygon region.
6. (Optional) Specify an orientation angle if the regular polygon is rotated.
7. Click Generate.
The boundary region is displayed in the Region Preview. Repeat steps 3
through 6 to make changes, if needed.
8. Click Add Region.
Meshing Setup (Mat Foundation)

Used to organize meshing regions to define finite element boundaries and to
generate meshes.
Regions of any shape can be used for generating mat boundaries, holes, or
control regions. Moment generated due to local stresses (such as reentrant
corners) is considered for reinforcement design, corner and hole
reinforcement detailing can be done through zones.

Meshing Setup tree

This tree displays the hierarchy of all regions which have been added as
boundaries, holes, or control regions.
Region types
l Boundary - Add region as the main mat boundary. It is the out-

ermost region of the mat foundation. You can have as many bound-
aries as needed. Boundaries can be connected or isolated.
l Hole- Specify a hole within a mat boundary. You can add as many
holes as needed. Please note, holes must not intersect each other or
the boundary or any control region.
l Control Region - Specify a special region within a mat boundary
which might have a different slab thickness or soil property. You can
add as many control regions as needed. Please note, these regions
must not intersect each other or the boundary or any hole.
Region identifier
It is a unique identifier of the region to be added. Any string can be used.
Add
Click on this button to add the selected region in the main view to the cur-
rent job
Select Boundary
User Manual — 163

Select the boundary to which the hole or control region will be added.
This option will be active only when the region type will be selected as
Hole or Control Region.
Target maximum
element size It’s the size of one side of a plate element to be created. This
parameter will be used by mesh generation engine to generate plates. This
option allows you to control meshing density and plate counts which in
turn control analysis run time and output size.
Optimize based on area
(Triangular only) Select to have the program use an optimization tech-
nique based on area. By default, program optimize meshing based on ele-
ment size.
Generate Mesh
Opens the Meshing Options dialog, which is used to generate mesh of
the selected bounding region.
Edit Selected Region
Opens the Edit Meshing region dialog.
Delete Selected Region
Removes the selected region from the meshing setup tree.
Add a meshing region in to the Meshing Setup tree
1. Select that region to be added in the View window.

The region is highlighted in red.
2. Select the type of region to use.

3. Specify a unique Region Identifier to use for the new mesh region.
4. (Hole or Control Region) Select the previously defined boundary name
into which the Hole or Control Region will be add.
5. Specify a target maximum element size (with units).

6. Select to optimize the meshing for area.

Generate a mesh for a boundary region
1. Select the previously defined boundary name in the meshing setup tree.
2. Specify a Target maximum element size in the selected units.
3. (Option) Select to Optimize based on area if you want to use area in lieu
of element size for optimization.
4. Click the Generate Mesh button.
The Meshing Options dialog opens.
5. Select the finite element shape and other options you wish the meshing
engine to use.
6. Click OK to generate a mesh for the selected boundary.
The mesh is displayed in the Graphics window.
Edit a boundary region geometry
1. Select a previously defined boundary, hole, or control region in the mesh-

ing setup tree.
2. Click the Edit Selected Region button.
The Edit Meshing Region dialog opens.
3. Make any needed changes to the region geometry.
User Manual — 165

Delete a boundary region from the meshing setup tree
1. Select a previously defined boundary, hole, or control region in the mesh-

ing setup tree.
2. Click the Delete Selected Region button.
The selected region is removed from the meshing setup tree.
Warning: This operation cannot be undone and there is no

confirmation dialog.
Meshing Options dialog
Used to control to the automated finite element mesh generator for mat
foundation boundary regions.
Opens when Generate Mesh is clicking in the Meshing Setup form.
Meshing shape
A Quadrilateral Mesh works well for slabs with quadrilateral boundaries and
when there is no hole or control region. A Polygonal Mesh is the better choice
for slabs with irregular shapes, like a Y-shaped slab, or slabs with round
holes, irregular-shaped holes, round edges, etc.
l Quadrilateral Meshing -
l Mixed Quad and Triangle Meshing -
l Triangular Meshing -
Create node at column support positions
This option sets a control point at supports, ensuring that a node will be
located there. Although it is not mandatory to create a node below

support, program smartly distributes support loading on plate’s corner

based on location of support on the plate.
Optimization level
Select a level for engine optimization (from 1 to 10), which is used to con-
trol how precise meshing setup needs to be. Higher optimization level
implies program will try to precise the mesh with higher number of iter-
ations. For larger mats higher optimization level will lead to substantially
large computer processing time.
Internal nodes spacing factor
Also used to control plate size. Internal Nodes Spacing Factor is inversely
proportional to node density inside the mesh.
OK
Sets the meshing options and generates the finite element mesh for the
selected
Cancel
Closes the dialog without generating a new mesh.
Edit Meshing Region dialog
Used to edit the geometry for a meshing region.

Opens when the Edit Selected Region button is clicked in the Meshing
Setup form.
User Manual — 167

Unit
Select a length unit to be used for all dimensions.
Region geometry table
This table displays the geometry parameters (coordinates, lengths, etc.) for
the selected region.
OK
Update the selected region's geometry and close the dialog.
Cancel
Closes the dialog without making any changes.
Analysis Properties > Slab Thickness form (Mat

Foundation)
Used to change the element thickness for the plate elements in a mesh you are
using to model a mat foundation.
As slab is added as a physical entity in STAAD Foundation, default slab
thickness property will be automatically created and assigned to each slab
region.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Analysis Properties > Slab
Thickness is selected.
The first row of the table is to select unit for thickness. You can have only one
unit for all slab thickness.
Second row onwards will be list of slab thickness properties. Left most cells of
each row will show the region identifier name as specified in Meshing Setup
operation.
STAAD.foundation allows you to use different thickness for analysis and
design. Analysis thickness will be used for FEM analysis of mat foundation
and design thickness will be used to design the mat slab. This is particularly
important in modeling a pedestal, where you may want to use excess thickness
for stiffness modeling but want to use slab thickness for design.

Analysis Properties > Soil Property form (Mat Foun-

dation)
Used to change and assign soil properties for the design of mat foundations.
Each soil boundary region can have different soil support properties or support
a different height of soil above using the table in this form.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Analysis Properties > Soil
Property is selected.
As slab is added as a physical entity in STAAD.foundation, default soil property

will be automatically created for each slab region. But by default soil property
will not be assigned to the region as the mat foundation could be supported on
piles only.
Note: For foundation on soil, the soil is assumed elastic with the specified
modulus of elasticity.
Density
Provide a density value. This is used to calculated weight for soil above the
mat which acts as dead weight.
Use Soil Spring
If the soil spring is not assigned to the region, value for subgrade modules
will be shown in red. Select this option to include soil spring and to assign
the soil property to the region. If selected, the value for subgrade modulus
will be shown in blue color.
Soil Height
Specify a height of soil above the mat foundation to be considered as dead
weight.
User Manual — 169

Analysis Properties > Pile Spring Definition
table (Mat Foundation)
Used to edit the pile spring constant values for all the piles present in the
current job.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Analysis Properties > Pile Spring
is selected.
Pile
The number of the pile.
Kx
Spring constant K value for the X-Direction.
Ky
Spring constant K value for the Y-Direction.
Kz
Spring constant K value for the Z-Direction.

Analyze (Mat Foundation)

Initiates an analysis of the a mat foundation. All data relevant to performing an
analysis, including slab boundary, plate thickness and soil properties, must be
entered prior to selecting this command, otherwise you will not obtain a
successful analysis. After successful analysis, program will convert analytical
results to physical entity based results to allow user to review output and
design slab.
To analyze a mat foundation job
1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mat slab analysis/design options

> Design.
or
Click the Design / Analysis tool in the Standard toolbar.
The Design Progress Report is displayed in the Output pane. The
program will launch the analysis engine to perform the FEM analysis.
User Manual — 171

When the analysis is complete, a number of results tables are
displayed in tabs in the Output pane. The main view window Geometry
page will display the deformed shape of the mat.


calculation sheet.
Output View Options form (Mat Foundation)

Used to control the display of different sets of output like displacement
diagrams, soil pressure contour, plate stress contour etc.
Opens when Mat Foundation Job > Mat slab Analysis/ design options
> Output View Options is selected.
User Manual — 173

Show Nodal Displacement
Select this option to show displacement diagram for current load case in
graphic area. The color picker control next to this check box allows user to
select a suitable color to be used to draw the displacement diagram.
Use Average Normal
This option is used to draw 3D displacement diagram where lighting will
be applied to the average normal direction.
Show Beam Displacement
Selecting this option will allow user to draw beam displacement diagram if
present in current job. The color picker control at right side of this check-
box allows user to choose a suitable color which will be used to draw
beam displacement diagram.
Drawing options
Displacement diagrams can be drawn as wireframe or as a true 3D solid
diagram. Draw line diagram option will draw a wireframe diagram of the
displaced shape. Draw 3D diagram will draw plates and beam dis-
placements as 3D solid diagram.
Stress Contour
There are three types of contours available:

l Plate Stress
l Beam Stress
l Soil Pressure
If you select Show Plate Stress contour, Select Stress Type drop down
box will be enabled allowing you to choose stress type to display. By
default program shows stress type as None.
Two categories of plate stress contours are available. One set displays
contour for plate local axis system and the other set shows global plate
moment.
Local stresses are:
l Max Absolute
l Max Top
l Max Bottom
l Max Von Mis
l Max Von Mis Top
l Max Von Mis Bottom
l SX
l SY
l SXY
l MX
l MY
l MXY
l SQX
l SQY
Global moments are available for both MX and MZ.
After selecting suitable stress type program will display contour in
graphics window along with a legend.
User Manual — 175

Show Soil Pressure
If you choose stress contour type as Show Soil Pressure, program will
display soil pressure contour for the selected load case along with a
legend.
Note: Soil pressure values are directly related to soil bearing

capacity. If the maximum pressure exceeds soil bearing capacity you
need to increase mat dimension and run the analysis again.
Base pressure for each node is calculated dividing the reaction of a plate
node by the tributary area of that node.
Show Beam Stress

This option is available only if the mat foundation includes physical
beams. After selecting show beam stress, Select Stress Type under beam

stress setup group will be enabled. Select any stress type to view the
contour along with a legend.
Available beam stress types are:
l Axial stress
l Bending Y stress
l Bending Z stress
l Combined stress
Show Legend
Use this option to switch on/off legend display
Plot contour on deflected shape
Select this option to draw stress contour on the deflected shape.
User Manual — 177

Moment Envelope Generation form (Mat Foun-
dation)
Used to choose longitudinal reinforcement directions and a generate moment
envelope. Please note, longitudinal axis is a vector direction.
Mat slab is a physical entity in STAAD.foundation, so to design the slab,
program uses a unique technique. It first divides the slab into finite number of
discrete points and then calculates stress on those nodes to create moment
envelope. Please note that program automatically transforms stresses to the
specified longitudinal direction.
To generate moment envelope you first need to define longitudinal
reinforcement direction. You can define X,Z coordinate to define an axis or
click on any two points on the screen.
Select Current Panel

If you have multiple boundaries you need to choose current panel to be
designed. By default program selects the first created boundary.
Longitudinal Axis Setup
There are two methods to define the longitudinal axis. You can setup the
axis either by defining two X,Z coordinates or by clicking on two points
on the screen.

By drawing a line on slab

Select this option to click on two points on the screen to define lon-
gitudinal axis. Once the first point is clicked program will draw a line from
the first point to the mouse point to show the axis. After second point is
clicked on the screen, program will calculate the X,Z coordinates of those
points and fill up the form start and end coordinates.
By specifying coordinates
Select this option to input X,Z coordinates of the start and end points of
the axis. By default program shows a global X axis as longitudinal axis.
Division along longitudinal axis
Number of slab divisions along longitudinal axis. It must be a positive
number. Program uses 60 divisions as default value.
Division along transverse axis
Number of slab divisions along transverse axis. It must be a positive
number. Program uses 60 divisions as default value.
Select load type
Shear and reinforcement design for foundation are done only for ultimate
(factored) load combinations. User has the option here to choose only load
cases defined as ultimate or all load cases assigned to the current job.
Generate Moment envelope
Creates a grid and calculates the moment envelope on the grid intersection
points.
Design Parameters form (Mat Foundation)

Used to input design parameters, design current panel and review design
results.
> Design Parameters is selected.
User Manual — 179

Grades: Fy
Specify the yield strength of steel reinforcing bars (f ), in the selected
y
units.
Grades: Fc
Specify the ultimate (crushing)strength of the concrete (f' ), in the selected
c
units.
Top Cover
Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the top-most layer of
mat reinforcement, in the selected units.
Bottom Cover
layer of mat reinforcement, in the selected units.
Min. / Max. bar size
Minimum and maximum rebar size to be used.
Max. / Min. spacing
Maximum and minimum rebar spacing, respectively, in the selected units.

Consider Wood and Armer moments

Select this option to consider Mxy moment to design the slab. This is a
method published by Wood and Armer where Mxy moment is transformed
to Mx and My moment.
Ignore check for minimum reinforcement
Instructs the program to design the slab without considering check for
minimum reinforcement
Design
Initiates the design of the slab. When the design operation is completed, a
message box will appear.
Result summary
Open a table which will show maximum reinforcement requirement con-
dition for all slab faces and direction. The table shows four rows for lon-
gitudinal top, longitudinal bottom, transverse top and transverse bottom
reinforcement requirement.
Details report
Opens the Mat Slab Design dialog, which is used to .
Mat Slab Design dialog
Used to add design parameters for specific locations in the slab for both
moment design and punching shear.
It lists all the grid points created to design the slab. It shows X,Y,Z coordinates
for each point, moment for that face and direction and the corresponding
reinforcement requirements.
Opens when the Details Report button is clicked on the mat foundation job
Design Parameters form.
User Manual — 181

Reinforcing Zoning form (Mat foundation)
As design is performed on thousands of points it will be tedious to go through
all those numbers and create a reinforcement layout. STAAD Foundation has a
tool to create reinforcement zones much like a reinforcement contour plot.
The number of zones may be specified but, by default, the program use three
zones.
The program will attempt to select appropriate reinforcing zones
automatically. This can be overridden using the controls in this form.

Choose Slab Face

Select the required slab face from drop down list.
Reinforcement zoning is done for one face at a time. So this step needs to
be repeated four times to detail both faces in both directions. Upon
completion of a successful design, the reinforcement calculations will be
available in the calculation sheet if Reinforcement Zoning is performed
for a particular face.
Preferred Zone Reinforcement Count
Specify how many different sizes of reinforcing steel bars (rebar) you
want the program to allow in the slab design. The program divides the
slab into the number of zones you designate. Each zone will contain only
one size of reinforcing steel.
Note: If a minimum reinforcement criterion is needed for the entire

mat, mat reinforcement is categorized in single zone irrespective of
the preferred zone reinforcement count selected.
Create Zone
Click this button to create the number of reinforcing zones specified by
the Preferred Zone Reinforcement Count number. For example, the
following figure shows how the display might appear when three zones
are created.
User Manual — 183

A colored dot in the center of each mesh element indicates the
reinforcing zone to which that element belongs. Reinforcement detail for
each zone is displayed at top left corner of Geometry view. Zones
created by the program are based on real time stresses subjected on
mat. For practical zoning layout, refer to Zone Editing.
Create Block
Click this button to divide the slab into block-shaped areas, based on the
reinforcement zones generated using the Create Zones button. These
rectangular areas are created to allow a practical layout of the various
sizes of reinforcing steel.
Zone Report

Provides reinforcement details for all zones for a particular Slab Face.
First Column displays number of zones assigned, reference to zone
number and color code can be seen at top left corner of Geometry view.
Second column displays maximum moment (in per length unit)
magnitude occurred in the zone. Third column displays critical load case
for the maximum moment, each zone might have a different governing
load case. Fourth and fifth column displays location of maximum
moment. Sixth column displays critical reinforcement area required for
particular zone, followed by seventh column displaying reinforcement
area provided. Eighth column shows actual reinforcement detail.
View Options
Used to view zoning based on requirement reinforcement area or
provided reinforcement area. Further user can see the grid line used for
zoning, zoning block from ‘Show’ drop down menu. By default ‘Show’
menu is set to control Nodes.
Zone Editing
Used to customize the zones per their needs. As mentioned in Create
Zones help menu, automated zone generated by program are based on
real time stresses. Practical zone assignment is possible through this
feature.
From Current Zone Drop down box, select a zone that needs to be reset.
Click on ‘Select Nodes’ button, then select control points from geometry
view which needs to be assigned under the current zone. Once selection is
done, click on ‘Reset Zones’ button. This process does not disturb the
nodes which were outside of selection. To create detached blocks in same
zone, repeat Zone Editing process for all blocks individually.
User Manual — 185

In above sketch, blue zone is set in two different blocks; this type of
zoning can be achieved by selecting left upper small block first then
resetting zones and selecting the right block later and resetting zones
one more time.
‘Lock Higher Zone’ check box makes sure that when zones are reset,
lower reinforcement zone does not overwrite higher reinforcement zone.
By disabling the check box, higher zones can be overwritten by lower
zones.
Cut Slab by a Line form (Mat Foundation)

Used to draw a stress diagram along a specified section line and then design
slab along that line.
> Cut Slab by a line is selected.

Slab cut options

The cut line or the line on the slab can be drawn either by inputting two
coordinates or by clicking at two points on the screen.
l By drawing a line on slab - Using this option will allow user to

draw a line in the graphics by clicking on two points. Click on first
point and then stretch the line to next point and click again. It will
transfer coordinates of those two points to the form under start and
end points.
l By specifying coordinates - Input the Starting X, Starting Z, End-
ing X, and Ending Z coordinate values.
User Manual — 187

Graph Scale Factor
Changes the vertical exaggeration factor of the stress diagram in the View
window.
Stress Type
Select the type of plate stress you want to view graphed along the cut line.
Insert a new Cut Line

Click to display the stress values along the cut line in the View window.
Cut line list

Displays all cut lines for the current mat foundation job. Select one of
these to design the reinforcing steel perpendicular to the cut line.
Design Selected Line
Opens the Design Report Along a Cut Line dialog, which is used for
designing bending reinforcement perpendicular to a cut line.

To delete a cut line
1. Select the entry in the Cut line list for the cut line you want to delete.
2. Press the Delete key.
Design Report Along a Cut Line dialog box
Used to perform and review the reinforced concrete design for a mat
foundation slab section.
Opens when the Design Selected Line button is clicked in the Cut Slab by a
Line form.
Select Graph Type
User Manual — 189

l Moment Envelope
l Req'd Reinforcement Area - Only available after a design has been
performed on the cut line.
l Moment Envelope: Wood and Armer

Set Design Parameters
Opens the Design Parameters dialog (Mat Foundation slab design),
which is used to input and verify the reinforced concrete design
parameters.
Design
Calculates the required reinforcement area for each element along the
cut line. The graph type is then changed to Reqd. Reinforcement Area.
Design for Ultimate load type only
Select this option to limit the design for factored loads only.
Moment graph and table

Displays a graphical and tabular representation of the selected Graph

Type.
Print
Opens the Print dialog, which is used to print the graph and table for the
current required reinforcement area results.
Close
Closes the dialog.
Moment Capacity Check form (Mat Foundation)

Used to check the capacity of existing mat slab. This form is used to to define
reinforcement layout and program calculates moment capacity of the slab
based on slab thickness, covers, reinforcement layout etc. You can plot capacity
diagram, actual moment diagram and then compare those two diagrams and
plot failure (or unity check) diagram. If at any portion of the slab, actual
moment is more than the moment capacity, program will identify that portion
with red color and plot failure diagram as shown below.
> Moment Capacity Check is selected.
User Manual — 191

Grades: Fy
Specify the yield strength of steel reinforcing bars (f ), in the selected
y
units.
Grades: Fc
Specify the ultimate strength of the concrete (f' ), in the selected units.
c
Top Cover
Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the top-most layer of
mat reinforcement, in the selected units.
Bottom Cover
layer of mat reinforcement, in the selected units.
Bar Size
Specify a reinforcing bar size to use for the capacity check.
Spacing
Specify a reinforcing bar center-to-center spacing, in the selected units.
Choose Slab Face
This check must be performed for one slab face at a time. So, for all four
faces the check should be performed for four times.
Plot Capacity Diagram
A two-dimensional Moment Capacity graph is displayed over the surface
of the mat. The legend indicates values of moment capacity by color.
Plot Moment Diagram

Moment Capacity diagram plot for Longitudinal Top, actual moment
diagram plot for Longitudinal Top

Plot Failure Diagram

Displays the graphical results of a unity check, where green indicates OK
(passes check) and red indicates No Good (fails check).
Mat Foundation - Output Tables

Once a mat foundation job has been successfully analyzed, a series of additional
tabs will be added to the Output pane. Each tab includes a table of results for
the analysis.
Displacement tab
Used to view node displacement table for all nodes for current load case as
User Manual — 193

selected in the current load case in the Standard toolbar.
Note: Clicking on any row of the table will highlight that node in the
graphics. The Show Nodes option must be toggled on in the Modeling
View Options form.
Disp Summary tab
Used to view node displacement summary table among all load cases.
Displays 12 rows where each row shows either maximum or minimum value
for a particular degree of freedom. It also displays corresponding
displacement values for other degrees of freedom on that row. The table first
lists three translational degrees of freedom and then three rotational degrees
of freedom. First row of each degree of freedom starts with maximum value.
Please note, here minimum and maximum are algebraic signed values.

Reaction tab
Used to review support reaction results. This option is available only if the mat
is supported on soil. In case of mat supported by soil each plate node of the
mat region will have one soil spring attached to it.
Reaction tab shows support reactions for current job for current load case
only. Please select your desired load case from Select Current Load icon in
toolbar.
The table shows reactions for all six degree of freedom for all nodes. Clicking
on any row will highlight the corresponding node in graphics.
Reaction Summary tab
Used to review support reaction summary results. This option is available only
if the mat is supported on soil.
Reaction summary table displays maximum and minimum reaction forces for
all directions among all load cases. Each row displays either a maximum or
minimum value of a particular DOF along with node and load case number.
Clicking on any row will highlight corresponding node in the graphics.
User Manual — 195

Contact Area tab
Used to review slab and soil contact information. The table displays area in
contact and area out of contact with the soil for each load case. This option is
available only for Mat slab supported by soil.
Note: Stability checks for rigid foundations is done automatically, for any
shape of mat foundation. In case of overturning check, program gives
contact area summary based on which stability of mat can be determined.
And for sliding resistance, program gives reaction summary in lateral
direction which further can be used for sliding check.
Pile Reaction tab
Used to review reaction forces on all piles present in current job. Piles are
treated as spring support where all rotational degrees are released. So, the
table displays three translational reactions for each pile.
Note: The Pile Reaction tab only appears in the Output pane if the
analyzed mat foundation job is supported on piles.

Pile Reaction Summary tab
Note: The Pile Reaction Summary tab only appears in the Output pane if
the analyzed mat foundation job is supported on piles.
Plate Stress tab
Click on Plate Stress tab to open plate stress table. It displays 8 basic stress
types for current load case. The stress types are
l SQX
l SQY
l SX
l SY
l SXY
l MX
l MY
l MXY
These stresses are based on plate local coordinate system. During slab design
program will automatically transform these local stresses to global axes
system.
User Manual — 197

Plate Stress Summary tab
Displays minimum and maximum stress of all stress types among all load
cases along with plate and load number.
2.4.4 Combined Footing

Used to create a combined footing with two supports or a strip footing with
more than two supports.
The Combined Footing group contains the following items:

Table 2-11: Combined Footing group items
Name Description
Concrete & Opens the Concrete and Rebar form in

Rebar the Data Input pane, which is used to input
concrete and rebar properties for the current
Cover, Soil, and Opens the Cover, Soil, and Safety form in
Safety the Data Input pane, which is used to input
cover parameters, soil characteristics, and fac-
tor of safety values.

Name Description
Footing Geome- Opens the Footing and Geometry form in

try the data input pane, which is used to input
isolated footing geometry for the current iso-
lated footing job.

want to proceed.
To create a combined footing job
1. Create two or more linear supports and add support loads.
2. Select Job Setup > Create a New Job in the Main Navigation pane.
3. In the Job Info form:
a. Give a suitable Job Name.
b. Select Job Type as Combined.
c. Select a Design Code and Default Unit Type.
d. Select which supports will be included in the Combined Footing job.
Note: At least two supports are required to create a combined

footing.
e. Select loads to for the Selected Load Case list.

User Manual — 199

Some additional controls are added to the Job Info form for creating
strip footings between support nodes.

To create a combined footing
1. (Optional) If the Job Info form is not displayed in the Data Input pane,
select Job Setup > Edit Current Job in the Main Navigation pane.
2. Select the supports in the View window: Geometry tab by clicking and
dragging the mouse to form a box around the supports you want to
include.
The selected supports are highlighted in the View window.
3. Click Create from Selected Nodes in the Job Setup form.

A tree view of the combined footing with included supports is displayed.
User Manual — 201

The strip footing is shown graphically connecting the included supports
in the View window.
Note: Multiple supports must be collinear to become a part of a

combined footing. An error will be displayed if you attempt to create
a combined footing from non-collinear supports. No combined
footing will be created.
To delete a combined footing
Select the footing from the tree, click on “Delete”. Deletion of support from a
combined footing is not allowed. You need to recreate the combined footing to
edit it. This will generate the following error message.
Delete All
To delete all the combined footing at a click, simply click on “Delete All”
button.
Concrete and Rebar form (Combined footing)

Used to specify concrete and reinforcement bar to be used for the design of a
combined footing.
Opens when Combined Footing Job > Design Parameters > Concrete
and Rebar is selected in the Main Navigator pane.


units.
User Manual — 203

Set as Default
new Combined Footing: Concrete and Rebar parameters.
Cover, Soil, and Safety form (Combined footing)

Used to input cover parameters, soil characteristics, and factor of safety
values.
Opens when Combined Footing Job > Design Parameters > Cover,
Soil, and Safety is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
Pedestal Clear Clover

Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the pedestal

reinforcement, in the selected units.
Footing Clear Cover
Unit Weight of Soil
Specify the allowable capacity of the soil, in the selected units.
units.
units.
If water table is not to be considered for this footing, leave this value
blank.
Set as Default
new Combined Footing: Cover, Soil, and Safety parameters.
Footing Geometry form (Combined footing)

Used to input the geometrical parameter used for design.
Opens when Combined Footing Job > Design Parameters > Footing
User Manual — 205

Design Type
dimension:
l Calculate Dimension - The footing size will be checked and resized

to the smallest size which meets all specified loads; ranging between
the minimum and maximum dimensions provided (inclusive). Cal-
culate dimension is set by default.
Fixed Width / Left Overhang / Right Overhang
Select if these values are fixed lengths or if they will be optimized during

the design.
Minimum Left / Right Overhand
Specify the minimum overhang length (direction parallel to the X axis) to
be used for the footing design, along with unit.
Minimum Width
Specify the width (direction parallel to the Y axis) to be used for the
footing, along with unit. For a Calculate Dimension design, this is used as
the minimum dimension to check.
Minimum Thickness
Specify the thickness (direction parallel to the Z axis; or out-of plan
dimension) to be used for the footing, along with unit. For a Calculate
Dimension design, this is used as the minimum dimension to check.
Maximum Length
Maximum Width
(Calculate only) Specify the maximum width (direction parallel to the Z
Maximum Thickness
unit.
Length Increment
(Calculate only) Specify the length and width increments to be used when
performing footing design, along with unit. This allows you control over
how to step footing sizes in design results.
Thickness Increment
Set as Default
new Combined Footing: Footing Geometry parameters.
Designing a Combined footing

1. Select Combined Footing Job > Design Parameters > Design.
or
User Manual — 207

design is complete, a summary of the design is displayed on the Strip
Footing Design Summary tab in the Output pane and the Calculation
Sheet is opened to review the design calculations. A graphical report of
Bending Moment and Shear Force for the footing will be generated in
the Graphs tab of the main view window.

calculation sheet.
2.4.5 Octagonal Footing job

Used to create an isolated, octagonal footing.
Table 2-12: Octagaonal Footing group items
Name Description
Design Param- Opens the Design Parameters form in the

eters Data Input pane, which is used to specify
concrete, reinforcement bar, and general
safety parameters to be used for the design
of an octagonal footing.
Footing Geome- Opens the Footing Geometry form in the

try Data Input pane, which is used to specify
general footing geometry parameters to be
used in the design of an octagonal footing.
Anchor Bolt Opens the Anchor Bolt Details form in the

Details data input pane, which is used to specify
anchor bolt pattern parameters to be used in
the design of an octagonal footing.
Design Initiates the design of the current octagonal

want to proceed.

put for the octagonal footing job in a Micro-
soft Office Excel® spreadsheet (Microsoft
Excel XML file format, with an .xml file

Name Description
extension).
Design Parameters form

Used to specify concrete, reinforcement bar, and general safety parameters to
be used for the design of an octagonal footing.
Opens when Octagonal Footing Job > Design Parameters > Design
Parameters is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
units.
Footing Clear Cover
Value of clear cover, in the selected units.
Select the minimum and maximum allowed reinforcing bar sizes to be used
in the design. Sizes listed correspond to the appropriate bar sizes used in
the selected Design Code.
Unit Weight of Soil
Specify the density of soil supporting the foundation, in the selected units.
Depth of Soil
units.
Value of allowable bearing pressure used for design, in the selected units.
units.
If water table is not to be considered for this footing, leave this value
blank.
Stability ratio
User Manual — 209

Value of minimum stability ratio used for design.
Set as Default
Footing Geometry form

Used to specify general footing geometry parameters to be used in the design
of an octagonal footing.
Opens when Octagonal Footing Job > Design Parameters > Footing
Unit
Select the units of length to use in this form.
Min / Max Footing Diameter
Specify the range of sizes used for checking in the design. The diameter is
that of a circle on which the octagonal foundation is circumscribed in
plan. The minimum diameter is first checked in the design process. If it is
not adequate, then subsequent sizes are checked, up to the maximum dia-
meter, until the design reaches the safety limit.
Min / Max Footing Thickness
Enter the minimum height which will be used in starting the design and
will be checked up to the maximum value until the design reaches the
safety limit.
Footing Dimension Increment
This input is for increment interval for width/ length or diameter of the
footing.
Anchor Bolt Details form

Used to specify anchor bolt pattern parameters to be used in the design of an
octagonal footing.
Opens when Octagonal Footing Job > Design Parameters > Anchor
Bolt Details is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
Unit
Select the unit of length (this page only).
Bolt Circle Diameter (BCD)
Bolt circle diameter along which bolt will be placed
Number of Anchor Bolt (Nb)
Count of total anchor bolts. This parameter is used to calculate “An” as

defined in appendix of PIP standard

Bolt Diameter (BD
Nominal diameter of individual bolt. This parameter is used to calculate
“An” as defined in appendix of PIP standard.
Sleeve Diameter (SD)
Anchor Bolt Effective Embedment Depth
Designing an octagonal footing

1. Select Octagonal Footing Job > Design.
or
design is complete, a summary of the design is displayed on the
Octagonal Footing Design Summary tab in the Output pane and the
Calculation Sheet is opened to review the design calculations.

calculation sheet.
2.4.6 Strap Footing job

Used to create a strap footing, which consists of a grade beam between two
isolated footings. This single job analyzes the beam and footing system and
designs both elements. These foundations are similar those designed for
horizontal vessels in the Plant mode.
Note: This feature requires STAAD Foundation Advanced V8i (release 6.0)
or higher.
Table 2-13: Strap Footing group items

Name Description
Concrete & Opens the Concrete and Rebar form in the

Rebar Data Input pane, which is used to specify con-
crete and reinforcement bar to be used for
the design of a strap footing.
User Manual — 211

Name Description
Cover, Soil, & Opens the Cover, Soil, and Safety form in
Safety the Data Input pane, which is used to input
cover parameters, soil characteristics, and fac-
tor of safety values.
Footing Geome- Opens the Footing Geometry form in the

try data input pane, which is used to input the
geometrical parameter used for design.
Other Param- Opens the Other Parameters form in the

eters data input pane, which is used to input the
geometrical parameter used for design.

want to proceed.

put for the strap footing job in a Microsoft
Office Excel® spreadsheet (Microsoft Excel
XML file format, with an .xml file exten-
sion).
Concrete and Reinforcement form

Used to specify concrete and reinforcement bar to be used for the design of a
strap footing.
Opens when Strap Footing Job > Design Parameters > Concrete &
Reinforcement is selected in the Main Navigator pane.



units.
Set as Default
Cover, Soil, & Safety form

Used to input cover parameters, soil characteristics, and factor of safety values.
Opens when Strap Footing Job > Design Parameters > Cover, Soil
& Safety is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
Pedestal Clear Clover

Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the pedestal
reinforcement, in the selected units.
Footing Clear Cover
Unit Weight of Soil
Specify the allowable capacity of the soil, in the selected units.
Depth of Soil
units.
units.
Set as Default
User Manual — 213

new Combined Footing: Cover, Soil & Safety parameters.
Footing Geometry form

Opens when Strap Footing Job > Design Parameters > Footing
Identical Footings
Set this option if both of the isolated footings have the same dimensions.
Length
Specify the length (direction parallel to the X axis) to be used for the
footing design, along with unit.
Width
Specify the width (direction parallel to the Z axis) to be used for the
Height
Specify the thickness (direction parallel to the Y axis) to be used for the
Maximum Length
Maximum Width
Minimum Height
Offset X / Z
Specify the offset dimension parallel to the X and Z axis between the
center of the footing and the pedestal.
Set as Default
new Combined Footing: Footing Geometry parameters.
Other Parameters form


Opens when Strap Footing Job > Design Parameters > Other
Parameters is selected in the Main Navigator pane.
Footing plan increment

Specify an increment interval for width and length of the footing, in the
selected units.
Footing thickness increment
Specify an increment interval for the thickness of the footing, in the
selected units.
Beam Width
Width of the beam above the spread footing, in the selected units.
Beam Depth
Enter the range of beam depth permissible for design, in the selected
units. The design process will begin with the minimum depth and iterate
designs up to and including the maximum depth specified.
Note: Beam depth is taken from top of grade beam to bottom of

spread footing.
Overturning Safety Factor

Sliding Safety Factor
Set as Default
new Combined Footing: Cover, Soil & Safety parameters.
Designing a strap footing

1. Select Strap Footing Job > Design.
or
design is complete, a summary of the design is displayed on the Strap
Footing Design Summary tab in the Output pane and the Calculation
Sheet is opened to review the design calculations.
User Manual — 215

calculation sheet.
2.5 Grouping Foundation Designs

Foundation groups are useful to limit the number of designs. By default,
STAAD Foundation optimizes each foundation design for the loads at that
support only. This can (and typically does) result in as many different designs
as their are supports. Often, it is more practical to limit the number of
designs to one or few sizes and reinforcing steel configurations.
The following procedure is used to group foundation designs:
1. Run the analysis for a file for preliminary sizing of foundations.
2. Make sure the Geometry tab in the Main View window is selected.
3. Select the Create Schematic Diagram tool in the Standard toolbar.
The footings are re-drawn to scale.

4. In the main view window, select footings you want to group together in a
single design.
Note: Use the CTRL key to select multiple footings individually.
5. Select the Create Group tool in the Standard toolbar.
The Detail Drawing and Schedule Drawing all update to reflect the
grouped footings. The GA Drawing updates when Refresh button is
clicked in the GA Drawing Options form.
A new job is created with the footings from this group (the previous job
is still maintained, with all footings included). All the footings in the new
group/job are re-sized to reflect the governing size of the selected
footings.

Section 3
Plant Foundations
3.1 Introduction
Plant foundations allow you to parametrically model both Vertical Vessel
foundations and Heat Exchanger (Horizontal Vessel) foundations. Both
foundation modules are completely wizard guided. You will be able to skip to
any point in the process using the module navigation tree.
Foundations are designed to comply with IS456, IS 1893 Part I, and IS 875
Part III for Indian codes.
Note: This feature requires STAAD Foundation 4.0 or later.
3.2 Starting a new plant setup job

1. Either
l Select Plant Mode from the Start Page.
or
l Select File > New > Plant Startup, select Plant Foundation in the
Create New Project dialog, and click Open
User Manual — 217

or
l Press <CTRL+N>, select Plant Foundation in the Create New
Project dialog, and click Open.
The program window opens a new project in the Plant Foundation mode
(displayed in the Main Navigation Window).
2. (Optional) Select either General Information or Review History in the
Project Info section of the Main Navigation Window to enter general
project or review data.
3. Select one of the following options in the Project Info section of the
Main Navigation Window:
l Create Vertical Vessel Foundation
l Create Heat Exg/Horz Vessel Foundation
l Create Tank Foundation
l Create Drilled/Driven Foundation
The corresponding wizard dialog opens.
4. Once you have completed the wizard, a new leaf is entered into the Main
Navigation Window for the new foundation.
5. Repeat steps 1 through 3 to add additional jobs to the project.

Select the current job using the Job Selection list found in the Standard
toolbar.

Section 3 Plant Foundations
Note: Different footing types may be added to the same project to

explore different footing scenarios or to contain all footing types to be
used within a single structure.
3.3 Vertical Vessel Foundation

Three types of foundation are allowed to design for vertical vessel. They are
octagonal footing on soil, square pile cap and octagonal pile cap. Vertical vessel
foundation design complies to:
l ASCE 7
l ACI 318
l IS 456
l IS 1893 Part I
l IS 875 Part III
3.3.1 Vertical Vessel Job page

Used to specify general job information for a Vertical Vessel job.
Vertical Vessel ID
Specify a unique job title for this vertical vessel job.
Unit System
User Manual — 219

Select either English or SI units to use in the wizard and for the job
design and output.
Design Code
Select either US or Indian design codes.
Next >
Proceeds the Wizard to the next step.
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Vertical Vessel Footing job.
3.3.2 Geometry page

Used to input all the geometric parameters. STAAD Foundation can model
both square and octagonal footings for vertical vessels.
Unit
Foundation Type
Select either Octagonal Foundationand Square foundation for the
vertical vessel.
Hint: For vessels larger than 5 ft. in diameter, an octagonal

foundation is typically more economical (this practice varies from
user to user).
Foundation Support Type

Select whether the foundation is to be supported on a Soil Foundation

or on a Pile Cap Foundation.
Note: If Pile Cap Foundation is selected, the Pile Cap Geometry

page is added to the wizard.
Vessel Geometry
Effective Diameter (Dve)

The effective diameter is the diameter that will be used to calculate the
wind pressure on the vessel.
Effective Height (Hve)
The effective height is the effective height of the vessel that will be used
to calculate the wind pressure and the seismic effect on the vessel.
Pedestal Geometry
Diameter (Dp)
Input pedestal diameter which will be used for shear check and pedestal
design (as shown in the input page sketch).
Thickness (Tp)
Height of the pedestal from top of footing (as shown in the input page
sketch)
Bottom Of Footing Elevation (B.O.F)
Bottom of footing elevation is used for detail drawing purpose. Based on
this input elevation at top of concrete (T.O.C.), elevation at top of soil
(T.O.S) and elevation at top of pedestal (T.O.P.) are displayed in detail
drawing.
Footing Geometry
Diameter (Df) Min / Max

(Octagonal type) Specify the range of sizes used for checking in the
design. The diameter is that of a circle on which the octagonal foundation
is circumscribed in plan. The minimum diameter is first checked in the
design process. If it is not adequate, then subsequent sizes are checked,
up to the maximum diameter, until the design reaches the safety limit.
Footing Dimension Increment
User Manual — 221

This input is for increment interval for width/ length or diameter of the
footing.
Length Min / Max
(Square type) Specify the range of sizes used for checking in the design.
The minimum length is first checked in the design process. If it is not
adequate, then subsequent sizes are checked, up to the maximum length,
until the design reaches the safety limit.
Height (Tf) Min / Max
Enter the minimum height which will be used in starting the design and
will be checked up to the maximum value until the design reaches the
safety limit.
Overburden and Buoyancy
Depth of Water Table (Dw)

Depth of the water tables measured from the ground level. This level is
used to calculate buoyant force on the footing.
Soil Depth (Ts)
Depth of soil above the foundation measured from the top face of the
footing base. Soil depth is used to calculate weight of soil over the
footing
< Previous
Steps the Wizard to the previous step.
Next >
Cancel
3.3.3 Anchor Bolt Geometry page

This page allows user to input their pedestal geometry and anchor bolt
arrangement. If the pedestal diameter required for anchor bolt arrangement is
more than the given pedestal diameter, program will automatically adjust
pedestal diameter.
Note: STAAD Foundation does not design the anchor bolts.
Note: This page is based on PIP STE03350.

Unit
Bolt Diameter (BD
Nominal diameter of the anchor bolt sleeve.
Nominal embedment of the anchor bolt.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.3.4 Primary Load page

Used to input the primary loads (loads other than wind load and seismic load).
User Manual — 223

Unit
Select the input unit for vertical force, base shear and base moment; for
this page only.
Standard Loads
For vertical vessels, the standard loaded conditions are:
l Empty condition
l Operating condition
l Test condition
l Erection condition
Vertical (Axial) Force, Base Shear, and Base Moment may be entered for
each of these loading conditions.
Note: Sign conventions for the applied loads are explained in

Primary Load Cases page sketch. Applied load at top of the pedestal
are calculated based on PIP STE03350.
User Defined Load

This table is used for entering non-standard loads. By default first load in
user defined load table is set to Live. More User defined load can be
entered in the same table.
< Previous
Next >

Cancel
3.3.5 Wind Load Generation page

Used to input wind load parameters. There are two methods for specifying
wind load on a vertical vessel:
l Directly input the shear force & moment values

l The program can calculate those values using ASCE 7-2005 (US) or IS-875
III (Indian). The inputs are described in the page, along with code section
and/or table numbers for reference.
User Defined Wind Load

Shear Value
Specify a base shear due to wind, in the selected units.
Moment Value
Specify a base moment due to wind, in the selected units.
Calculated Wind Load - US Code

Wind Speed
You need to input the wind speed provided in the code in miles per hour
unit.
Kd (Wind Directional Factor)
User Manual — 225

Click on the Table 6.6 button to open the table of code Kd values.
Select a value and then click the OK button to use it.
Note: You may manually enter in any value to override the code-
specified table values.
Kz (Velocity Pressure Exposure Coefficient)

This is described in section 6.5.6.4 and Table 6.5. Choose the required com-
bination of combo boxes for them.
Kzt (Topographic Factor)
This is defined in section 6.5.7.2 and determined from figure 6.2.
I (Importance Factor)
Importance is defined in section 6.5.5 and determined from figure 6.1.
Click on the Table 6.1 button to open a table of code I values.
G (Gust Effect Factor)

This is the Gust Effect Factor and it is user defined.
Cf (Net Force Coefficient)

Value of “Cf” according to table T6-10.
Program Calculated Wind Load - Indian Code

Wind Speed
Specify the wind speed provided in the code in meters per second.
No of Years (N)
Specify the mean probable design life of the structure.
Risk Level (Pn)
The risk level in N consecutive years.
Cf
Force coefficient.
K3
Topography factor as defined in section 5.3.3 of IS-875 III
Site Class
Select the site classification as defined in Section 5.3.2.1 of IS-875 III.
Terrain Category
Select the category which describes the surrounding terrain as defined in
Section 5.3.2.2 of IS-875 III.
Partial Wind Case %

This value represents percentage of full wind speed used in case of test load
or erection load combination. As probability of getting full wind speed
while test is being carried out is very low.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.3.6 Time Period page

Inputs in this page are basically required for wind load and seismic load
calculation according to ASCE 7-05. There are three ways to enter/calculate
time period:
l Direct Input
l Mass Table
l Program Calculated
User Manual — 227

Time Period Calculation
Select the method you want to use for determining the time period.
Direct Input
Fundamental Period (T)
Specify the fundamental time period of the vessel.
Mass Table
The time period is calculated using Von Mises Theorem equation:
Where:
l H = Overall height in feet,

l D = Diameter of each section in feet,
l w = Distributed weight per foot of each section,
l W = Weight of each concentrated mass,
l t = Shell thickness of each section in inches,
l E = Modulus of elasticity for each section in millions of psi,
l a,b and g = Are coefficient for a given level depending on hi/H(the ratio
of height of the level above grade to the overall height). Da and Dg are

the difference in the values of a and g,from the top to the bottom of each
section of uniform weight, diameter and thickness. b is determined for
each concentrated mass.
Units
Specify the values of Length, Force/Length, and Force used in both tables
on this page to describe the mass of the vessel.
Distributed Mass table
This table is used to describe how the mass is distributed over one or more
vertical sections of the vessel.
Mass/Length
Specify a mass per unit of vertical height for this section of mass.
Height (Top / Bot)
Specify the top and bottom heights, respectively, above base of this section
of mass.
Diameter
The diameter of the vertical vessel for this section.
Thickness
The wall thickness of the vessel for this section.
Concentrated Mass table
This table is used to specify point masses in the vessel, such as ladders,
platforms, etc..
Mass
Specify the amount of lumped mass.
Height
The height above base where the lumped mass is centered.
Calculate Time Period
The program calculates the Fundamental Period and enters this value for
the Fundamental Period (T) (non-editable).
Program Calculated
Fundamental Period is calculated by using formula as described below,
Where:
l w = Weight of the structure, kips

l L = Length of the structure, inch
l E = Modulus of Elasticity, ksi
User Manual — 229

l I = Moment of Inertia, in4
l g = Gravitational acceleration
Long-Period Transition Period

Long-period transition period (TL), in seconds, determined in ASCE Sec-
tion 11.4.5
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.3.7 Seismic Load Generation page

Used to input seismic load data—either directly or by parameters which the
program will then use to calculate code-specified seismic loads. The following
codes are supported:
l ASCE 7-2005 (US)

l IS-1893 Part 1 (Indian)
Seismic Load Generation calculation

l Directly Input Seismic Loads - specify values for shear force and moment
l Mass Table C.G. - (US code only) If mass data has been entered in the
Time Period page for the calculation of the vessel's fundamental period,
that data can also be used by the program to determine the center of grav-
ity.
l User Defined C.G. - Specify the center of gravity of the vertical vessel.
Directly Input Seismic Loads

Depending on the load combination, operating seismic or empty seismic will be
taken into consideration.
Operating Seismic Load

seismic load subjected at top of pedestal for operating conditions.
Empty Seismic Load
seismic load subjected at top of pedestal for empty conditions.
Mass Table C.G. - US Code

The program will calculate seismic loads per ASCE 7-2005 for you. You have
the option to use database mapped acceleration values based on Zip code or to
specify values directly.
l Select using Zip Code- Populates the Select Zip combo box with all U.S.
zip codes. Choosing any one of them will (or simply type in the value to
select faster) will selected mapped acceleration values for that geographic
location.
l Enter Value Manually- Specify values for S1 and Ss in the respective
fields.
City / Latitude / Longitude

(non editable) Displayed for the specified zip code to verify location.
S1 / Ss
The 1-second and short period acceleration values from ASCE 7 maps.
Site Class
Value of Fa and Fv, which are functions of Site Class and mapped
acceleration values.
Note: If Site Class is selected as F, Fa and Fv may be entered

manually.
Response Modification Factor (R)
User Manual — 231

Select the response modification factor (either 2 or 3).
Occupancy Importance Factor (I)
Select the importance factor for the structure (1.00, 1.25, or 1.50)
User Defined C.G. - Indian Code

The program will calculate the seismic loads per IS-1893 Part 1 for you. You
have the option to select a mapped acceleration value based on a Indian city
or to specify values directly.
Seismic Zone Selection

Set the option to either Select City from a list of Indian cities or Enter
Value Manually to select the Zone (Z) from a list.
Average Response Acceleration Coefficient
Set the option to either Select Soil Type from a list of soil descriptions or
Enter Value Manually to type the Sa/g value directly.
Response Reduction Factor (R)
Select the reduction factor from the list as defined in Table 7 of IS 1893
Part 1.
Importance Factor (I)
Select the importance factor from the list as defined in Table 6 of IS 1893
Part 1.
User Defined C.G.

C.G. of Vessel
Specify the center of gravity of the vertical vessel above the finished
surface, in the selected units.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.3.8 Load Combination page

Used to generate combinations of primary load cases for use in analysis and
design. Two types of load combinations are used here. They are “Allowable
Load Combination” and “Ultimate Load Combination”. You can create any
number of load combinations.


own.
l ASCE 7-05
l PIP STC01015
l User defined
Update Table
Delete

deleting.

l Index - The first column indicates the index of the load combination.
l toggle - Select the check boxes of the combination which you want to
use.
User Manual — 233

(empty) row.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.3.9 Design Parameters page

Design parameter is grouped under three categories. They are Material
Density, Bearing and Stability and Concrete Design Parameters

Water Density
Density of water with unit to use for a Buoyancy Check, in the selected
units.
Buoyancy Check
Select this option to have the program perform a check for buoyancy.
Concrete Density
Specify a density to be used for concrete (w ), in the selected units.
C
Soil Density
Density of soil supporting the foundation, in the selected units.
Allowable Bearing Pressure
Value of allowable bearing pressure used for design, in the selected units.
Minimum Stability ratio
Value of minimum stability ratio used for design.
Bar Type
Types of bar used for the design (e.g. Imperial or Metric).
Cover
Value of clear cover, in the selected units.
Fc
Specify the ultimate strength of the concrete (f' ), in the selected units.
c
Fy
Specify the yield strength of steel reinforcing bars (f ), in the selected units.
y
Minimum / Maximum Bar Dia
in the design.
< Previous
Next >
(for Pile Cap foundation only) Proceeds the Wizard to the next step.
Cancel
Finish
(for Soil Foundation only) Closes the Wizard and creates the Vertical
Vessel Footing job in the current project.
3.3.10 Pile Cap Geometry page

Used to define Pile Cap geometry and individual pile data. When the Pile Cap
Foundation option is selected on the Geometry page, this page is added to the
wizard.
User Manual — 235

Unit
Choose Units for force and length, these units are only applicable to Pile
Cap Geometry Page.
Minimum Pile cap Depth
Lateral
Vertical
Uplift
Dia
Diameter of a pile.
Edge
edges of a pile.
In Pile Data, enter Lateral, Uplift, Vertical capacities of pile from geotechnical
report.
Arrangement Type
circular arrangement will be design as octagonal pile cap. For octagonal
foundation, pile arrangement is automatically set as circular.

l Number of Rows - Usually for vertical vessel foundation, pile cap is

kept as square pile cap. To do so, enter same number of rows and col-
umn with same row and column spacing.
l Number of Columns
l Row Spacing
l Column Spacing
arrangement.
arrangement.
below.
User Manual — 237

table and figure.
Select Arrangement
Show Pile Reactions
Note: To get the pile reaction, the file needs to be run once. Once
you have designed the Vertical Vessel Foundation job, select
Vertical Vessel Footing > Edit to return to this page to view the
Pile Reaction table.
spacing type and table

Once a pile arrangement is started, the table displays the spacing for each
row, column, layer, or circumference; depending on what arrangement type
and table spacing type is selected.
< Previous
Cancel
Finish
Closes the Wizard and creates the Vertical Vessel Footing job in the
current project.
3.4 Heat Exchanger Foundation

Six different configurations of Heat Exchanger foundations can be designed in
STAAD Foundation. For both Stacked Exchanger and Single Exchanger, the
foundation may be a combined footing, isolated footings, or footings connected
by a strap beam. Horizontal vessel foundation design complies to:
l ASCE 7
l ACI 318
3.4.1 Heat Exchanger Job page

Used to specify general job information for a Heat Exchanger job.
User Manual — 239

Heat Exchanger ID
Specify a unique job title for this Heat Exchanger job.
Unit System
Select either English or SI units to use in the wizard and for the job
design and output.
Design Code
Select either US or Indian design codes.
Next >
Cancel
3.4.2 Exchanger Geometry page

Used to input all the geometric data for the Heat Exchanger.
Hint: Clicking on any input fields creates a description of the

corresponding field below the diagram.

Exchanger / Vessel Type

Select either a Single Exchanger or Stacked Exchanger, for the type of
heat exchanger vessel will be supported by the foundation.
Footing Type
l Combined Footing - footing will be designed as monolithic footing

connecting two piers. Design philosophy is same as combined footing
from General Mode.
l Isolated Footing - footing will be designed as two isolated footing
supporting each pier. These footing can be made identical from footing
geometry page. Design philosophy is same as isolated footing from
General Mode.
Strap Beam
(Isolated Footing type only) Exchanger footing will be designed as two iso-
lated footing below the piers connected by a strap beam.
Bottom of Footing Elevation (B.O.F.)
drawing
Unit
Unit of length for all the input in this page only.
Heat Exchanger Length (L)
Length of the heat exchanger.
User Manual — 241

Upper Exchanger Diameter (UD)
(Stacked Exchanger only) Diameter of the upper exchanger.
Lower Exchanger Diameter (LD)
Diameter of the lower exchanger or, if a Single Exchanger, the diameter of
the sole exchanger.
Height from Pier Top to Upper Exchanger (H)
Height from the top of the pier to the center line of the upper exchanger.
For a single exchanger, the height is measured to the center line of the sin-
gle vessel.
Soil Depth (SD)
Depth of soil from top of the footing.
Height of Pier Top from Base (B)
Height from the top of the pier to the base of the foundation.
Spacing of Exchanger (S)
(Stacked Exchanger only) Spacing of the central line of the exchanger in
case of stacked exchanger.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Heat Exchanger Footing job.
3.4.3 Footing Geometry page

This page will have a different set of parameters displayed depending on the
Footing Type selected on the Exchanger Geometry page.
Combined Footing
Here you have to input the geometrical data relate to the footing.

Unit
Choose the length dimension unit.
Pier to Pier Distance
Distance of the central lines of the pier.
Pier Width
Width of the pier.
Pier length
Breadth of the pier.
Right Overhang
Length of the right overhang from the central line of the right pier. Choose
“Yes” from the combo box right next to it if you want to make it fix else
“No” if you want to allow it to increase by the design engine.
Left Overhang
Length of the left overhang from the central line of the left pier. Choose
“Yes” from the combo box right next to it if you want to make it fix else
“No” if you want to allow it to increase by the design engine.
Width
Minimum width of the footing. Choose “Yes” from the combo box right
next to it if you want to make it fix else “No” if you want to allow it to
increase by the design engine.
Width (Max)
The maximum width allowed up to which it will be incremented by the
design engine.
Thickness
Minimum thickness of the footing.
User Manual — 243

Thickness (Max)
The maximum thickness allowed up to which it will be incremented by
the design engine. The rate increment will have to be given on the right
“Increment” input field.
Length (Max)
The maximum total length allowed up to which it will be incremented by
Thickness Increment
This input is for increment interval for thickness of the footing.
Length / Width Increment
This input is for increment interval for width and length of the footing.
Isolated Footing
The dialog displays the following
Unit
Choose the length dimension unit.
Pier to Pier Distance
Distance of the central lines of the pier.
Water Table Depth
Depth of water table from top of soil. This input is used to calculate buoy-
ant forces on foundation.
Pier Width

Width of the pier.

Pier length
Breadth of the pier.
Width
Minimum width of the footing. Choose “Yes” from the combo box right
next to it if you want to make it fix else “No” if you want to allow it to
increase by the design engine.
Width (Max)
The maximum width allowed up to which it will be incremented by the
design engine.
Thickness
Minimum thickness of the footing.
Thickness (Max)
The maximum thickness allowed up to which it will be incremented by the
design engine. The rate increment will have to be given on the right “Incre-
ment” input field.
Length (Max)
The maximum total length allowed up to which it will be incremented by
Thickness Increment
This input is for increment interval for thickness of the footing.
Length / Width Increment
This input is for increment interval for width and length of the footing.
Identical Footings Option
By making this option ticked, both isolated footing will be identical.
Strap Beam
Note: Beam geometry can be entered through the beam geometry page.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
User Manual — 245

3.4.4 Beam Geometry page
Used to specify grade beam geometry for isolated footings connected by a
strap beam.
Here UDL with unit over beam option is available. Max & Min Depth Range of
Beam, Width of Beam (with unit input), Main Bar Range, Stirrup Bar Range,
Stirrup Type (Number of legs), Stirrup Spacing Range ( with input) are
available in this page.
Beam Loading - UDL On Beam

Specify a uniform dead load applied over the length of the grade beam,
in the selected units.
For example, this may be the weight of a wall load over the beam.
Min / Max Depth

spread footing.
Beam Width
Min / Max Bars Size (Main Bar)

Specify the range of permissible longitudinal reinforcing bar sizes.

Min / Max Bars Size (Stirrup)
Specify the range of permissible stirrup sizes.
Min / Max Spacing of Stirrup
Specify the permissible range of stirrup spacing, in the selected units.
Type of Stirrup
Select the number of stirrup legs present in a cross section.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.4.5 Primary Load page

Used to input the primary loads other than wind load and seismic load.
Note: In case of stacked exchangers, primary loads entered in this page are
for the entire heat exchanger assembly not for single exchanger
Force Unit
User Manual — 247

Select a unit for all axial loads specified on this page.
Moment Unit
Select a unit for all moment loads specified on this page.
Heat Exchanger Loads
Six types of axial forces are used for input. They are:
l Empty Load - Exchanger assembly Weight in empty condition

l Operating Load - Exchanger assembly weight with fluids at oper-
ating level condition
l Test Load - Exchanger assembly weight with fluids at test level con-
dition
l Live Load - Superimposed live load on exchanger assembly e.g. plat-
form live load attached to the exchanger
l Erection Load - Construction loading on exchanger assembly e.g.
crane loading
l Miscellaneous Axial Load
l Thermal load - Load generated by thermal expansion of exchanger
assembly, thermal load is entirely applied at fixed end
l Bundle Pull - Axial couple loading is considered on piers for Bundle
pull force. Lateral load imposed on exchanger assembly under main-
tenance procedure, program distributes bundle pull force equally on
piers.
Application of all primary load is in accordance with PIPSTE03360
The program generates axial, lateral forces and moments based on
primary load input. Additional loading can be entered through user
defined moment.
User Defined Moment
Four types of moments are used for input. They are:
l Empty Moment
l Operating Moment
l Longitudinal Miscellaneous Moment
l Transverse Miscellaneous Moment
Note: Direct inputs are always applied at top of pedestal (bottom of

base plate), it is per industry standards. Vendors provide the loads at
bottom of base plate of vessel. All program generated loads are
applied at center of vessel.
Pedestal Load Distribution %

Give the load distribution percentage for “Shell End” and “Channel End”.

Channel End is usually considered as sliding end and Shell End is

considered as fixed end.
Note: Vertical loads are not affected by pedestal type (fixed or

sliding). Vertical loads are distributed per pedestal load distribution
percentage. Conventionally channel end is heavier than shell end.
Standard percentage of distribution for vertical loads is - Channel End
60% & Shell End 40%.
Design Self Weight

This option enables user to select self weight of the footing, self weight of
the pedestal and self weight of the soil above footing to be considered for
reinforcement design or not.
Note: Self weight is always considered for service checks.
Self Weight Factor

Coefficient of calculated self weight for use in dead load cases. Further to
design self weight option, self weight considered can be modified using this
factor.
Slide Plate Parameter
Sliding plate coefficient only affects the seismic loads on exchanger
assembly.
Slide plate coefficient of friction is used to determine % longitudinal
lateral loads distributed on Shell End and Channel End.
Per PIPSTE03360 4.3.2.3, for low friction plates (α≤0.2) entire
earthquake load is applied on fixed pier (Shell End). In case of high
friction plates (α ≥0.2), 70% of earthquake load applied on fixed pier.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

User Manual — 249


Shear
Specify a base shear due to wind in both X and Z global directions, in the
selected units.
Moment
Specify a base moment due to wind about both X and Z global directions,
Program Calculated Wind Load - US Code

Wind Speed
Specify the wind speed provided in the code in miles per hour.
Kd
The Wind Directional Factor: Click on the Table 6.6 button to open the
table of code Kd values.

Kz for
Velocity Pressure Exposure Coefficient, which is described in section 6.5.6.4
and Table 6.5. Choose the required combination of combo boxes for them.
Kzt
Topographic Factor, which is defined in section 6.5.7.2 and determined
from figure 6.2.
I
Importance Factor, which is defined in section 6.5.5 and determined from
figure 6.1. Click on the Table 6.1 button to open a table of code I values.
G
The Gust Effect Factor.
Cf
User Manual — 251

Net Force Coefficient, which is defined in Table T6-10.
Partial Wind Load %

This value represents percentage of full wind speed used in case of test
load or erection load combination. As probability of getting full wind
speed while test is being carried out is very low.

Wind Speed
No of Years (N)
Risk Level (Pn)
Cf along X
Force coefficient along the global X axis.
Cf along Z
Force coefficient along the global Z axis.
K3
Site Class
Terrain Category
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.4.7 Seismic Load Generation page

l ASCE 7-2005 (US)



Select this option to specify values for shear force and moment. Otherwise,
seismic load generation parameters are required to generate loads.

Depending on the load combination, operating seismic or empty seismic will be
taken into consideration.
Empty Load Case

seismic load subjected at top of pedestal for empty conditions.
Operating Load Case
seismic load subjected at top of pedestal for operating conditions.
Program Calculated - US Code

The program will calculate seismic loads per ASCE 7 for you. You have the
option to use database mapped acceleration values based on Zip code or to
specify values directly.
l Select using Zip Code — Populates the Select Zip combo box with all
U.S. zip codes. Choosing any one of them will (or simply type in the value
to select faster) will selected mapped acceleration values for that geo-
graphic location.
l Enter Value Manually— Specify values for S1 and Ss in the respective
fields.
User Manual — 253

S1 / Ss
Site Class

manually.
Response Modification Factor (R)

Select the response modification factor (either 2 or 3).
Note: The value may be selected from the drop-down list a custom
value may be entered manually.
Occupancy Importance Factor (I)

Select the importance factor for the structure (1.00, 1.25, or 1.50)
Note: The value may be selected from the drop-down list a custom
value may be entered manually.
Transverse Direction
Fundamental Period (T) in the direction transverse to the length of the
horizontal heat exchanger vessel(s).
Longitudinal Direction
Fundamental Period (T) in the direction parallel to the length of the ves-
sel(s).
Long-Period Transition Period (TL)
The Period for Long Transition defined in section 11.4.5.
Program Calculated - Indian Code

The program will calculate the seismic loads per IS-1893 Part 1 for you. You
have the option to select a mapped acceleration value based on a Indian city
or to specify values directly.
Note: Refer to US Code above for description of other common

parameters.

Seismic Zone Selection

Set the option to either Select City from a list of Indian cities or Enter
Value Manually to select the Zone (Z) from a list.
Average Response Acceleration Coefficient
Set the option to either Select Soil Type from a list of soil descriptions or
Enter Value Manually to type the Sa/g value directly.
Response Reduction Factor (R)
Select the reduction factor from the list as defined in Table 7 of IS 1893
Part 1.
Importance Factor (I)
Select the importance factor from the list as defined in Table 6 of IS 1893
Part 1.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

User Manual — 255

own.
l ASCE 7-05
l PIP STC01015
l User defined
Update Table
Delete

deleting.

bination.

use.
(empty) row.
Note: To add or change any combination from the default list (kept in
an external .INI file) you need to click the Update Table button
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

Used to enter design parameters for the Heat Exchanger footing; including
reinforced concrete, soil, and safety factors.
User Manual — 257

Unit
First give the units for three types of dimensions, density, length and
stress.
Concrete and Rebar

Concrete Unit Weight
Specify a density to be used for concrete (w ).
C
Fc
Specify the ultimate strength of the concrete (f' ).
c
Fy
Specify the yield strength of steel reinforcing bars (f ).
y
Max / Min Bar Spacing
Specify the minimum and maximum distances to be allowed between rein-
forcing bars.
Max / Min Bar Size
used in the design.
Cover and Soil

Pedestal Clear Cover

Specify clear cover distance between face of pedestal and edge of rein-
forcing bars.
Footing Bottom Cover
layer of footing reinforcement.
Soil Unit Weight
Specify a density to be used for the soil.
Soil Depth
Specify the depth from soil surface to the top of footing.
Load Surcharge
Specify a surcharge loading above the footing.
Minimum Permissible Area in Contact With Soil
Specify a percentage of area of contact between footing and soil.
Sliding and Overturning

Factor of Safety (Sliding)
Factor of Safety (Overturning)
< Previous
Cancel
Finish
Closes the Wizard and creates the Heat Exchanger Footing job in the
current project.
3.5 Tank Foundation

This foundation wizard is used to parametrically model and design a ring
foundation supporting a tank vessel. Tank foundation design complies to:
l ASCE 7
l ACI 318
User Manual — 259

l Seismic loads per API 650, Section E
3.5.1 Tank Foundation page

Used to input all the geometric parameters.
Tank ID
Type a unique title for the tank foundation job.
Unit System
Select between English customary and SI system of units.
Design Code
Select either US or Indian design codes
Foundation Type
Increment interval for width/ length or diameter of the footing.
Weight Input
Select a method for inputting the tank weights on the Primary Load
cases page. Select the Direct Weight Input method to specify a total
weight. Select the Tank Fluid Volume Input to specify a volume and
fluid density.
Sliding Check
Set this option to instruct the design process to check sliding stability.
Overturning Check

Set this option to instruct the design process to check overturning

stability.
Tank Orientation
Type an angle between the drawing north and true north (in degrees) to
orient the tank.
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Tank Foundation job.
3.5.2 Tank Foundation Geometry page

Geometry Unit
Select the primary unit of length (this page only).
Increment Unit
Select the secondary unit of length (this page only).
Bottom of Footing Elevation
drawing.
User Manual — 261

Dimension Increment Width / Depth
Increment interval for width/ length or diameter of the footing.
Ringwall Geometry
Eccentricity from Tank Diameter to Footing Centerline

Type the eccentricity value taken from the tank wall to the centerline of
ring foundation.
Width (Fw) Min. / Max.
Type the minimum and maximum values, respectively, to be used for the
design of the tank ring foundation.
Height (Fh)
Type the value of height (vertical thickness) to be used for design of the
tank ring foundation.
Miscellaneous Inputs
Concrete Slab Thickness

Type the value of thickness for the concrete slab-on-grade beneath the
tank floor.
Compact Granular Fill (Ds)
Height of the pedestal from top of footing (as shown in the input page
sketch)
Bottom Of Footing Elevation (B.O.F)
drawing.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.5.3 Tank & Fluid Properties page

Used to input parameters for the tank structure.

Tank Geometry
Geometry Unit
Select the units of length used in Tank Geometry parameters.
Internal Tank Diameter (Di)
Type the internal diameter of the tank.
Height of Tank Shell (Hs)
Type the maximum height of the tank shell.
Tank Thickness
Tank Thickness Unit
Select the units of length used in Tank Thickness parameters.
Avg. Thick. of Tank Shell (Tavg)
Type the value for the average thickness of the tank shell.
Thick. of Tank Bottom (Tbot)
Type the value for the thickness of the tank bottom.
Thick. of Tank Roof (Trf)
Type the value for the thickness of tank roof.
Insulation Thickness (Tins)
Type the value of the thickness of insulation.
User Manual — 263

Tank Material Properties
Tank Material Unit
Select the units of length used in Tank Material parameters.
Yield Strength of Bottom Plate (Fby)
Type the yield strength of the bottom plate.
Elastic Modulus of Tank Shell (Es)
Type the modulus of elasticity for the tank shell.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.5.4 Primary Load Cases page

Used to input parameters for loads due to product contained in the tank and
any loads present on the tank roof.
Units
Select the units of Tank Weight Force, Fluid Volume, Internal
Pressure, and Pressure Load used in tank Loading parameters.

Internal Pressure
Type values for Internal Pressure at both Operating Level (normal
conditions) and Test Level in selected units for internal pressure.
Tank Weight
Specify these values when the Direct Weight Input option is set on Tank
Foundation Job page.
Operating Fluid Weight

Type a value of total fluid weight under normal operating conditions.
Test Fluid Weight
Type a value of total fluid weight under testing conditions.
Liquid Height Units
Select the units used to enter liquid height parameters.
Liquid Height (Operating)
Type a value of fluid height under normal operating conditions.
Liquid Height (Test)
Type a value of fluid height under testing conditions.
Fluid Properties
Specify these values when the Tank Fluid Volume Input option is set on Tank
Foundation Job page.
Operating Product Volume

Type the volume of liquid contained in the tank under normal operating
conditions.
Test Product Volume
Type the volume of liquid contained in the tank under testing conditions.
Specific Gravity of Product
Type the unit weight of the liquid.
Pressure Load
These define the loads distributed over the roof of the tank.
Roof Snow Load

Type a pressure value for the snow load (if any) on the tank roof.
Snow Importance Factor (Isnow)
User Manual — 265

Type the importance factor used for the snow load.
Miscellaneous Dead Load
Type the composite dead load on the tank roof (excluding the self weight
of the tank roof).
Live Load
Type the composite live load on the tank roof.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel




Shear
Specify a base shear due to wind in both X and Z global directions, in the
selected units.
Moment
Specify a base moment due to wind about both X and Z global directions,
Partial Wind Load %

This value represents percentage of full wind speed used in case of test load
or erection load combination. As probability of getting full wind speed
while test is being carried out is very low.
Program Calculated Wind Load - US Code

Wind Speed
Specify the wind speed provided in the code in miles per hour.
Kd
The Wind Directional Factor: Click on the Table 6.6 button to open the
table of code Kd values.
Kz for
Velocity Pressure Exposure Coefficient, which is described in section 6.5.6.4
and Table 6.5. Choose the required combination of combo boxes for them.
Kzt
User Manual — 267

Topographic Factor, which is defined in section 6.5.7.2 and determined
from figure 6.2.
I
Importance Factor, which is defined in section 6.5.5 and determined
from figure 6.1. Click on the Table 6.1 button to open a table of code I
values.
G
The Gust Effect Factor.
Cf
Net Force Coefficient, which is defined in Table T6-10.

Wind Speed
No of Years (N)
Risk Level (Pn)
Cf
Force coefficient.
K3
Site Class

Terrain Category
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.5.6 Seismic Load page

l ASCE 7-2005 (US)

Direct Seismic Load Input

Set this option to manually input seismic load values.
Shear Unit
(Direct entry) Select the units of force used for shear values.
User Manual — 269

Moment Unit
(Direct entry) Select the units of moment used for shear values.
Convective Seismic Load / Impulsive Seismic

Forces
The simplified model for seismic loads is that of a two component
spring/mass. A short period, impulsive mode is assumed as the primary
response mode. A secondary convective mode is assumed to account for the
sloshing of fluid.
Operating Shear
Type the lateral shear force due to the convective or impulsive force,
respectively, under normal operating conditions.
Test Shear
Type the lateral shear force due to the convective or impulsive force,
respectively, under testing conditions.
Operating Moment
Type the moment value due to the convective or impulsive force,
respectively, under normal operating conditions.
Test Moment
Type the moment value due to the convective or impulsive force,
respectively, under testing conditions.
Seismic Ground Motion Values - US Code

The program will calculate seismic loads per ASCE 7-2005 for you. You have
the option to use database mapped acceleration values based on Zip code or
to specify values directly.
l Select using Zip Code- Populates the Select Zip combo box with all U.S.
zip codes. Choosing any one of them will (or simply type in the value to
select faster) will selected mapped acceleration values for that geographic
location.
l Enter Value Manually- Specify values for S1 and Ss in the respective
fields.

S1 / Ss

Site Class

manually.
Seismic Parameters
These values are specified when the Direct Seismic Load Input option is
not set.
Seismic Use Group

Select the use group as defined in ASCE 7.
Damping Adjustment Factor
Type the damping adjustment factor. This may be varied to account for
different fluids or soil conditions.
Long-Period Transition Period (TL)
Type the value for TL.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

User Manual — 271

own.
l ASCE 7-05
l PIP STC01015
l User defined
Update Table
Delete

deleting.

bination.

use.
(empty) row.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

Used to enter design parameters for the tank foundation; including reinforced
concrete, soil, and safety factors.
User Manual — 273

Soil Properties
Allowable Soil Bearing Capacity
Type the allowable bearing capacity of the soil, in the selected units.
Type the coefficient value of friction between the soil and concrete.
Material Densities
Concrete Density
Type the unit weight to be used for concrete (w ).
C
Soil Density
Type the unit weight to be used for the soil.
Water Density
Type the unit weight to be used for water (buoyancy calculations).
Safety Ratios
Factor of Safety (Sliding)
Type a factor of safety against sliding.
Factor of Safety (Overturning)
Type a factor of safety against overturning.

Concrete and Reinforcement

Fc
Type the ultimate strength of the concrete (f' ).
c
Fy
Type the yield strength of steel reinforcing bars (f ).
y
Clear Cover
Type clear cover distance between face of foundation and edge of stirrup
bars.
Stirrup Spacing Increment
Type the distance increment to use in selecting a stirrup spacing.
Min Stirrup Spacing
Type the minimum distances to be allowed between stirrups.
Min / Max Stirrup Size
Type the minimum and maximum distances to be allowed between rein-
forcing bars.
Min / Max Bar Size
in the design.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
3.6 Drilled/Driven Pier Foundation

Drilled shaft or driven pier foundations used to resist axial and lateral loads
can be designed using this parametric wizard. The pier can have any number of
sections along its length and essentially any number of soil layers can be
modeled.
3.6.1 Drilled Pier Job page

User Manual — 275

Project Info
Pile/Pier ID
Type a unique title for the pier job.
Project Name
(Optional) Type a descriptive name for the project associated with this
pier.
Client / Engineer / Checker Name
(Optional) Type the identification (i.e., names, initials, etc.) of personnel
or organizations associated with project.
Specifications
Pile Type
Select if the pile is a Driven Pile or Drilled Shaft.
Unit System
Select between English customary and SI system of units.
Design Code
Only US design code is currently supported.
Loading Type
Select either a Static or Cyclic loading on the pier.
Next >
Cancel

Exits the Wizard without creating a new Drilled/Driven Pier job.
3.6.2 Pier Section page

Used to provide section information for pier at various elevations. The
parameters entered here depend on whether a drilled shaft or driven pier was
selected on the Drilled Pier Job page.
Drilled Shaft sections
Unit
Bolt Diameter (BD
Nominal diameter of the anchor bolt sleeve.
User Manual — 277

Nominal embedment of the anchor bolt.
Driven Pier section
Pier Ht Above Ground (PG)

Extension of pier (pile) above ground level when driven to depth.
Water Level (WL)
Distance from ground level down to water table, in the selected units.
Section list
A list of pile sections available.
Create Section
Click to provide section parameters for a custom pile section.
Add Section
After custom section parameters are entered, click to add to the list.
Delete Section
Click to remove the selected section from the Sections list.
Section Name / section parameter fields
Displays the relevant section data for the selected section in the Sections
list.
If the Create Section button is clicked, respective values must be typed
in each of these fields before clicking Add Section to save a custom
section to the Sections list.
Section Length

Type the total length of pile, in the selected units.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Drilled/Driven Pier job..
3.6.3 Soil Section page

Used to define the number of soil layers in the range of the pier and to provide
geotechnical data for each layer.
soil layers list

A list of pile sections available.
Add Layer Above / Below
Click either to add a new soil layer above or below the currently selected
soil layer in the list.
Delete Layer
Click to remove the selected soil layer from the list.
Layer Type
Select the soil type that best describes the layer.
Layer Depth
User Manual — 279

Type a thickness for the soil layer, in the selected units.
Soil Properties
Soil Density
Average soil density for the soil layer.
Note: If the water table is located within a soil layer, soil layer
should be split into two parts with different soil densities.
Epsilon 50
Soil strain which corresponds to 50% of the maximum principle stress.
Some typical values for ε50—taken from EI 02C097—are shown in the
following table.
Table 3-1: Representative values of ε
50
Avg.
Undrained
Consistency
Shear ε
of Clay 50
Strength
(ksf)
Soft - 0.020
Medium - 0.010
Stiff 1-2 0007
2-4 0.005
4-8 0.004
Cohesion
Undrained shear strength of a cohesive soil.
J Parameter
An empirical, dimensionless parameter. A value of 0.5 is frequently used
(soft clay). A value of 0.25 can be used for a medium clay.
Initial Soil Stiffness
Slope, k, to use for the initial, straight-line portion of the p-y curve
representing static, linear loading. Some typical values for k—taken from
EI 02C097—are shown in the following table.

Table 3-2: Representative values of k for

stiff clays
k k
Avg. Undrained s c
(lb/in. (lb/in.
Shear Strength (ksf) 3) 3)
1-2 500 200
2-4 1,000 400
4-8 2,000 800
P Multiplier
Scale factor for P values in p-y curve.
Y Mulitplier
Scale factor for Y values in p-y curve.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Drilled/Driven Pier job..
3.6.4 Loads page

Used to input the lateral, axial, and rotation loads.
User Manual — 281

loads list
A list of individual loads applied to the top of the pier.
Add Load
Click to add a new load to the list.
Delete Load
Click to remove the selected load from the list.
Force/Deflection
Select to specify either a Shear Force or an enforced lateral Deflection
value for the selected load.
Shear
If Shear Force is selected, type a value for the Shear force, in the selected
units.
Lateral Deflection
If Deflection is selected, type a value for the enforced lateral deflection, in
the selected units.
Moment/Rotation
Select to specify either a Moment or enforced Rotation value for the
selected load.
Moment
If Moment is selected, type a value for the moment, in the selected units.
Rotation
If Rotation is selected, type a value for the rotation, in the selected units.
Axial Load

Type a value for the axial load, in the selected units.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Drilled/Drive Pier job.

Design parameter is grouped under three categories. They are Material
Density, Bearing and Stability and Concrete Design Parameters
Reinforcement
Reinforcement Strength
Type the yield strength of steel reinforcing bars (f ), in the selected units.
y
Modulus of Elasticity
Type the Young's Modulus of steel reinforcing bars (E), in the selected
units.
Min / Max Bar Size
in the design.
User Manual — 283

Max Spiral
Type the maximum size to use for spiral confinement steel.
Concrete
Concrete Strength
Type the ultimate strength of the concrete (f' ), in the selected units.
c
Modulus of Elasticity (Concrete)
Type the Young's Modulus of concrete (E), in the selected units.
Concrete Density
Specify a density to be used for concrete (w ), in the selected units.
C
Critical Depth for Axial Capacity

Critical Depth Ratio Calculation
Select to either have the program Calculate the critical depth or to type
the value as User Input.
Critical Depth Ratio
(User Input only) Soil depth at which vertical stress appears to become
constant is known as the Critical Depth. This value is the ratio of critical
depth to the pier diameter. Typical range of critical depth ratio lies from
10 to 20.
Pile Condition
Pile Batter Angle
For battered piles, type the angle between vertical and the centerline of
the pile, in degrees.
Ground Slope Angle
Type the angle between horizontal and the surrounding ground slope, in
degrees.
Number of Increments Along the Pile

Type the number of discrete sections along the length of the pile at which
a analysis is performed.
Axial Load Parameters

F.S. End Bearing
Factor of safety for base resistance.
F.S. Skin Friction

Factor of safety for side resistance.

Tip Resistance % for Axial Capacity
Percentage of base resistance (end bearing) force to be considered in axial
capacity.
Skin Resistance % for Axial Capacity
Percentage of the maximum skin friction that is being developed as a func-
tion of downward deflection of the pile, where that downward deflection
has been normalized to units of “pile diameters”.
Neglected Top Soil Layer for Skin Friction
For top layer skin friction, typically first five feet are neglected.
Additionally, any backfill layer should be neglected for skin friction.
Note: Neglected soil zone at top at bottom are regions excluded from
skin friction calculation.
Neglected Bottom Soil Layer for Skin Friction

For bottom layer skin friction, in case of “Straight” pier profile typically
soil layer equal to one pier diameter thickness is neglected and in the
case of “Belled” pier profile, a soil layer equal to sum of bell periphery
and pier diameter is neglected.
< Previous
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Drilled/Driven Pier job.
Finish
Closes the Wizard and creates the Drilled/Driven Pier job in the current
project
User Manual — 285

Section 4
Foundation Toolkit
4.1 Introduction
The foundation toolkit allows you to parametrically model a variety of
common foundation types such as combined footings, drilled piers, dead man
anchor guys, etc. These foundation modules are completely wizard guided. You
will be able to skip to any point in the process using the module navigation
tree.
Note: This feature requires STAAD Foundation V8i, release 5.0 or later.
4.2 Starting a new foundation toolkit

project
1. Either
l Select Toolkit Mode from the Start Page.
or
l Select New from the Application menu button, select Foundation
Toolkit in the Create New Project dialog, and click Open
User Manual — 287

or
l Press <CTRL+N>, select Foundation Toolkit in the Create New
Project dialog, and click Open.
The program window opens a new project in the Foundation Toolkit
mode (displayed in the Main Navigation Window).
2. (Optional) Select either General Information or Review History in the
Project Info section of the Main Navigation Window to enter general
project or review data.
3. Select one of the following options in the Project Info section of the
Main Navigation Window:
l Create Isolated Footing / Block
l Create Combined Footing
l Create Dead Man Anchor / Guyed Tower Foundation
l Created Drilled Pier
l Create Pile Cap Job
l Create Ribbed (Beam) Footing
The corresponding wizard dialog opens.
4. Once you have completed the wizard, a new leaf is entered into the Main
Navigation Window for the new foundation.
5. Repeat steps 1 through 3 to add additional jobs to the project.
Select the current job using the Job Selection list found in the Standard
toolbar.
Note: Different footing types may be added to the same project to

explore different footing scenarios or to contain all footing types to
be used within a single structure.
This will create the GUI for Foundation Toolkit. In the left side of the window
there will be a tree control in the “Foundation Toolkit Menu” pane as the
following figure shows.

Section 4 Foundation Toolkit
In Main Navigator five new leafs are added “Create Isolated Footing/Block”,
“Create Combined Footing”, “Create Dead Man Anchor guy Tower foundation”,
“Create Drilled Pier” and “Create Pile Job”. Click on a specific leaf will help
you to create the job. You can create more than one job for each of them
(“Create isolated Footing/Block”, “Create Combined Footing”, “Create dead
man Anchor”, “Create Drilled pier”, “Create Pile Job”). The created jobs will be
listed in the tree view as following.
“Edit” “Delete” and “Design” These three features of a particular job helps the
user to edit the fields after creation and click on “Delete” deletes the job.
“Design” will design the corresponding foundation.
User Manual — 289

4.3 Isolated/Block Foundation
The Isolated Footing Wizard is a step-by-step process to parametrically create
an isolated footing. Complete the data fields on each page and then click Next
to proceed. Once you are finished, click the Finish button to complete the
wizard.
To create an Isolated Footing job using the toolkit

1. Select Project Info > Create Isolated Footing / Block in the Main
Navigator pane.
The Data Input Wizard for an Isolated Footing opens.
2. Input the parameters on each page and click Next > to proceed.
Hint: You may jump to any step using the table of contents found on
the left side of each wizard dialog page or move to the prior page by
clicking < Previous.
3. Repeat through all input pages until the Finish button is enabled.
4. Click the Finish button to exit the wizard.
The new Isolated Footing job is added to the project in the Main
Navigator pane.
To design an Isolated Footing job using the toolkit

1. Select Edit Isolated Footing Job > Isolated Footing Job: <job
name> > Design in the Main Navigation pane.
A dialog confirms you want to proceed with designing the Isolated
Footing job.
2. Click Yes.

The progress of the foundation design is displayed in the Output pane.

The Status bar also provides feedback on the progress of each step.
Once the process is complete, the program will automatically display a
Design Summary table in the Output pane and the detailed design
calculations in the Calculation Sheet tab of the View window.
To edit an individual Isolated Footing dimension

Individual isolated footing dimensions can be edited.
1. Click the Geometry tab in the Graphics Window.

2. Click one of the dimensions on the drawing.
A dimension dialog opens to display the current value and their units.
3. Make changes as needed.

4. Click the OK to accept the changes and dismiss the dialog.
To edit an Isolated Footing job using the toolkit

name> > Edit in the Main Navigation pane.
The Data Input Wizard re-opens to allow for any changes.
2. Click the Edit button to exit the wizard and save the changes.
The job is re-loaded with changes. The job must be re-designed for
output to be updated with any changes.
To delete an Isolated Footing job using the toolkit

name> > Delete in the Main Navigation pane.
A dialog confirms the removal of the Isolated Footing job.
2. Click Yes.
User Manual — 291

4.3.1 Isolated Footing Job page
Used to input general job data. The unit type selected will be applied through
the remaining wizard pages.
Job Name
This should be unique for each job. By default Job Name is set as
"Isolated Job."
Design Code
The following countries' design codes are available:
l US (default)
l British
l India
l Australia
l Canadian
l Chinese
Default Unit Type
There are two types of Unit Type.
l English (default)
l SI
Next >
Cancel

Exits the Wizard without creating a new Isolated Footing Job.
4.3.2 Concrete and Rebar page

Used to input geometrical and material data. Unit types and bar sizes available
in drop-down lists reflect the choices made on the Isolated Job page.

units.
< Previous
Next >
User Manual — 293

Cancel
4.3.3 Cover and Soil page

Used to input the soil properties and soil type. Unit types available in drop-
down lists reflect the choices made on the Isolated Job page.
Soil Type
Select the type of soil supporting the foundation:
l Drained Condition
l Undrained Condition
Unit Weight of Soil
units.
units.


Cohesion
(Drained Condition only) For footings in a drained condition, specify a
cohesion pressure, in the selected units.
Undrained Shear Strength
(Undrained Condition only) Specify a shear strength for the soil, in the
selected units.
Bottom Clear Cover
Friction Angle
(Drained Condition only) Specify a angle of internal friction for the soil,
in degrees.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

Used to input geometry parameters used in design or checking.
User Manual — 295

Design Type
dimension:
l Calculate - The footing size will be checked and resized to the small-
est size which meets all specified loads; ranging between the mini-
mum and maximum dimensions provided (inclusive). Calculate
dimension is set by default.
Minimum Length
Specify the minimum length (direction parallel to the X axis) to be used
for the footing design, along with unit.
Minimum Width
Specify the minimum width (direction parallel to the Y axis) to be used
for the footing, along with unit.
Minimum Thickness
Specify the minimum thickness (direction parallel to the Z axis; or out-
of plan dimension) to be used for the footing, along with unit.
Maximum Length
Maximum Width
(Calculate only) Specify the maximum width (direction parallel to the Y
axis) to be used for the footing, along with unit.
Maximum Thickness
unit.
Plan Dimension Inc.
(Calculate only) Specify the length and width increments to be used
when performing footing design, along with unit. This allows you control
over how to step footing sizes in design results.
Thickness Increment
Offset X / Z Direction
If the loads do not pass through the CG of the footing, specify the offset

dimension in the X and Z directions (parallel to length and width,

respectively), along with unit.
Length Width Ratio
(Calculate only) Specify a plan aspect ratio to control the relative length
and width of the footing design.
For example, a value of one results in a square footing where as a value
of two results in a footing twice as long along the X axis as the Z axis
width.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
4.3.5 Sliding and Overturning page

Used to provide stability factors of safety and column/pedestal parameters.
Factor of Safety Against Sliding
User Manual — 297

Pedestal Height
If a pedestal is used a this support, specify a height, in the selected units.
Note: Pedestal Design is support for US (ACI 318) code only.
Column / Pedestal Depth

Specify a column (or pedestal, if height is specified) depth (dimension
parallel to the X axis), in the selected units.
Column / Pedestal Width
parallel to the Z axis), in the selected units.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
4.3.6 Load page

Used to provide support force and moment values applied to the isolated
footing.

Moment / Force Unit

Units for force and Moment.
Load table
Each line of the load table represents a separate primary load case.
Note: Refer to the sketch on the load page for applied load sign
conventions. In particular, note that negative Y represents applied
gravity load.
l Fx- Value of Load applied to the X direction.

l Fy - Value of Load applied to the Y direction.
l Fz- Value of Load applied about the Z direction.
l Mx- Value of Moment applied about the X direction.
l Mz - Value of Moment applied about the Z direction.
l Loading Type - Select a class of load (i.e. - dead, live, wind, seismic,
etc.) from the drop-down list.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

User Manual — 299

Update Table
Delete

deleting.

bination.
to use.

(empty) row.
< Previous
Cancel
Finish
Completes the Wizard and adds the new Isolated Footing Job to the
active project file.
4.4 Combined Footing

The Combined Footing Wizard is a step-by-step process to parametrically
create a combined footing. Complete the data fields on each page and then click
Next to proceed. Once you are finished, click the Finish button to complete the
wizard.
To create an Combined Footing job using the

toolkit
1. Select Project Info > Create Combined Footing in the Main
Navigator pane.
The Data Input Wizard for an Combined Footing opens.
User Manual — 301

The new Combined Footing job is added to the project in the Main
Navigator pane.
To design an Combined Footing job using the

toolkit
1. Select Edit Combined Footing Job > Combined Footing Job:
<job name> > Design in the Main Navigation pane.
A dialog confirms you want to proceed with designing the Combined
Footing job.
2. Click Yes.
To edit an individual Combined Footing dimension

Individual Combined Footing dimensions can be edited.



To edit an Combined Footing job using the toolkit

<job name> > Edit in the Main Navigation pane.
To delete an Combined Footing job using the

toolkit
<job name> > Delete in the Main Navigation pane.
A dialog confirms the removal of the Combined Footing job.
2. Click Yes.
4.4.1 Combined Footing Setup page

Job Name
User Manual — 303

"Combined Job."
Design Code
l US (default)
l British
l India
l Canadian
l Chinese
l Australia
Default Unit Type
l English (default)
l SI
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Combined Footing Job.
4.4.2 Concrete and Rebar page

Used to input geometrical and material data. Unit types and bar sizes
available in drop-down lists reflect the choices made on the Combined Job
page.


Specify a density to be used for concrete, in the selected units.
units.
used in the design. Sizes listed correspond to the
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
4.4.3 Cover, Soil, & Safety page

down lists reflect the choices made on the Combined Job page.
User Manual — 305

Factor of Safety Against Overturning
Unit Weight of Soil
units.
Specify the allowable (?) capacity of the soil, in the selected units.
Bottom Clear Cover
units.
Pedestal Dimensions table
Table rows represent supports with the same numbers. Provide the
pedestal dimensions for the corresponding support.
l Ped Ht - If a pedestal is used a this support, specify a height, in the

selected units.
l Ped Depth - Specify a column (or pedestal, height is specified) depth
(dimension parallel to the X axis), in the selected units.
l Ped Width - Specify a column (or pedestal, height is specified) depth
< Previous
Next >
Cancel


Used to input geometry parameters used in design or checking.
Design Type
dimension:
l Calculate Dimension - The footing size will be checked and resized to

the smallest size which meets all specified loads; ranging between the
minimum and maximum dimensions provided (inclusive). Calculate
the design.
Column Distance
Specify the distance between the columns (direction parallel to the X
axis) to be used for the footing, along with unit. For a Calculate
Width
User Manual — 307

footing, along with unit. For a Calculate Dimension design, this is used
as the minimum dimension to check.
Thickness
Maximum Length
Maximum Width
Maximum Thickness
unit.
Length Increment
Thickness Increment
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
4.4.5 Load page

Used to provide support force and moment values applied to the combined
footing. Both supports have a load table.

Moment / Force Unit

Load tables
gravity load.

< Previous
Next >
Cancel

User Manual — 309

Update Table
Delete

deleting.

bination.
to use.
(empty) row.
< Previous
Cancel
Finish
Completes the Wizard and adds the new Combined Footing Job to the

4.5 Dead Man Anchor Guy Foundation

The Dead Man Anchor Guy Foundation Wizard is a step-by-step process to
parametrically create a reinforced concrete dead man anchor block footing,
typically used in tower guy anchors. Complete the data fields on each page and
then click Next to proceed. Once you are finished, click the Finish button to
complete the wizard.
4.5.1 Dead Man Anchor Guy Foundation

Job page
Job Name
User Manual — 311

This should be unique for each job. By default Job Name is set as "Dead
Man Anchor Guy Job."
Design Code
Dead man anchors may only be designed using the US code.
Default Unit Type
l English (default)
l SI
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Dead Man Anchor Guy
Foundation Job.

available in drop-down lists reflect the choices made on the Dead Man
Anchor Guy Foundation Job page.
Concrete Strength
Rebar Steel

units.
Guy Rod Steel Strength
Specify the yield strength of steel guy rod, in the selected units.
Size of Top Rebar
Select the size of reinforcing bar to be used along the top face of the dead
man anchor.
Size of Rebar Ties
Select the size of reinforcing bar to be used in the ties (stirrups).
Size of Rebar in Front Face
Select the size of reinforcing bar to be used along the front face of the
dead man anchor.
Quantity of Top Rebar
Specify the number of reinforcing bars to be used along the top face of
the dead man anchor.
Quantity of Rebar in Front Face
Specify the number of reinforcing bars to be used long the front face of
the dead man anchor.
Cover
Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the rebar ties, in the
selected units.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Dead Man Anchor Foundation
Job.
4.5.3 Load page

Used to input loads on foundation and factor of safety for design.
User Manual — 313

Force Unit
Select the type of units in which the force is given.
Load options
There are two methods for entering in the load: by magnitude and
direction (By Slope) or by vector components (By Force).
l By Slope - Specify the Tension Force value, in selected units, and

Slope, in degrees.
l By force - Specify Horizontal and Vertical components of force sub-
jected to foundation, with selected force units.
Uplift Safety Factor
Specify a factor of safety against uplift
Horizontal Safety Factor
Ultimate Load Factor
Specify a factor of safety against ultimate (factored) loads.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
Job.

Used to input geometry of the footing.

Dead Man Block Height

Vertical dimension of dead man anchor block, in the selected units.
Dead Man Block Width
Horizontal dimension of dead man anchor block, in the selected units.
Dead Man Block Length
Out-of-page/screen dimension of dead man anchor block, in the selected
units.
Depth from finished grade to the water table, in the selected units.
Depth of Bottom of Dead Man
Depth from finished grade to the bottom of the dead man anchor, in the
selected units.
Dimension of Toe
Specify the dimension of toes, in the selected units.
Soil Wedge Angle
Specify the angle of soil wedge, in degrees.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
User Manual — 315

Job.
4.5.5 Soil Profile page

Used to input a Soil Profile.
Unit
Units for Soil Layer Depth, Soil Cohesion (undrained shear strength) and
Soil Density.
Soil Layers table
The soil profile is input via a table, with each row representing a
different layer of soil.
Soil Type - Select the type that best describes the contents of the
selected layer.
Depth - Depth for each soil layer is measured from Ground Elevation
(GE, by default 0ft) to top of the ground surface to the bottom of each
layer.
Friction Angle - This is an input for Effective Friction Angle (Soil-Pile
Friction Angle) for cohesionless soil layer (such as sand, gravel, or rock).
The unit of Friction Angle is in degrees.

Note: It is assumed that the soil’s Angle of Internal Friction equal to

the Effective Friction Angle.
Cohesion - The undrained shear strength of the soil. For cohesion soils,
such as clays and silts.
Average Density - This is an input for average soil density for the
respective soil layer.
Note: If the water table is located within a soil layer, soil layer
should be split into two parts with different soil densities.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
Job.
4.6 Drilled Pier

STAAD Foundation can design reinforced concrete drilled pier foundations
capable of carrying axial load only using the Toolkit. Shafts may be straight or
have a sloped bell.
For information on the methodology used by STAAD Foundation on the

capacity checks used for drilled piers, refer to Section 8.12.
4.6.1 Drilled Pier Job page

Used to input general job data.
User Manual — 317

Job Name
Should be unique for each job. By default Job Name is set as Drilled Pier
Job.
Design Method
There are three methods for analyzing/designing drilled pier:
l API Method (based on API RP 2A-WSD)

l FHWA 1999 Method (based on FHWA-IF-99-025)
l Vesic method (based on “Design of Pile Foundations,” by A.S. Vesic,
1977 - National Transportation Research Board, National Research
Council)
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Drilled Pier Job.
4.6.2 Drilled Pier Geometry page

Used to input geometry of the drilled pier.

Shaft Profile
STAAD Foundation can design both Straight and (angle) Belled drilled
piers. The BD, ST, and BT dimensions are only used for Belled shafts.
Pier Ht Above Ground (PG)
Measured from ground elevation to top of shaft, with selected units.
Shaft Diameter (SD)
Diameter of main shaft, with selected units.
Pier Height (PH)
Total pier height, measured from top of shaft above ground to bottom of
bell (if present) or shaft bearing end, , with selected units.
Water Level (WL)
Measured from Ground Elevation (GE), with selected units.
Ground Elevation (GE)
Arbitrary elevation value, with selected units.
Bell Diameter (BD)
(Belled only) Diameter of belled shaft end, with selected units.
Slope Thickness (ST)
(Belled only) The height of the sloped portion of the bell, with selected
units.
Bell Thickness (BT)
(Belled only) Height of bell from bottom to toe of sloped portion, with
selected units.
< Previous
User Manual — 319

Next >
Cancel
4.6.3 Soil Profile page

Used to input all the relevant Soil Profile data.
Elasticity of Soil
Young's modulus for soil in the layer containing the tip (bearing) (Es), in
the selected units.
Note: The default value of 0.3 ksi may be high for some loose sands
or soft clays, but is generally conservative for most soils used for
drilled pier tips.
Number of Layers
Specify the number of soil layers to be added to the table.
Note: If the water table is located within a soil layer, soil layer should be
split into two parts.
Generate Table

Click to generate a table with a number of rows corresponding to the No.

of Layers specified.
Warning: If data has already been added to the table, clicking this
button again will delete the current data and rebuild the table.
Depth / Cohesion / Density Unit

Units used for Soil Layer Depth, Soil Cohesion (undrained shear strength)
and Soil Density in the Soil Profile table cells. All cells in a column must
be entered in the same type of units.
Soil Profile Table
Column Description
Soil Type Select the soil type that best describes the
layer
l (API Method) Select from Clay, Silt,

Sand, Gravel, Sand-Silt and Others
l (FHWA Method) Select from Clay and
Sand. Clay is selected in case of cohe-
sive soil and either of Silt, Sand,
Gravel, Sand-Silt is chosen for Cohe-
sionless soil.
Density (API method) Select soil density from Very

Type Loose, Loose, Medium, Dense, Very
Dense.
Selection is used to determine Nq values
from Table 6.4.3-1— "Design Parameters for
Cohesionless Siliceous Soil"
Depth Depth for each soil layer is measured from

Ground Elevation (GE, by default 0ft) to top
of the respective soil layer.
Friction Effective Friction Angle (Soil-Pile Friction

Angle Angle) for cohesionless soil layer, in degrees.
It is assumed that the soil’s Angle of Internal
Friction equal to the Effective Friction
Angle.
User Manual — 321

Column Description
Cohesion Undrained shear strength of a cohesive soil.
Avg. Den- Average soil density for the respective soil

sity layer.
Note: If the water table is located

within a soil layer, soil layer should be
split into two parts with different soil
densities.
N60 (FHWA Method) Input for design value for

SPT (Standard Penetration Test) blow count,
taken as average value within the soil layer.
Unit for N60 is B/ft (Blows/ft).
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
4.6.4 Load page

Used to input load, factors of safety and resistance parameters.

Axial Load
Load along axial direction, in the selected units.
Note: A positive value indicates a compressive force and a negative

value indicates an uplift force.
End bearing
Factor of safety for base resistance.
Skin Friction
Factor of safety for side resistance.
Tip Resistance for Axial Capacity
Percentage of base resistance (end bearing) force to be considered in axial
capacity.
Skin Resistance for Axial Capacity
Percentage of the maximum skin friction that is being developed as a
function of downward deflection of the pile, where that downward
deflection has been normalized to units of “pile diameters”.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
User Manual — 323

4.6.5 Design Parameter page
Used to input the Material Properties, Critical Depth, & Neglected Soil
Resistance parameters.
Rebar parameters
Rebar Steel
units.
Modulus of Elasticity (Steel)
Young's modulus for steel reinforcing bars (ES), in the selected units.
Max Rebar Size
Specify the maximum size of reinforcing bar to be used in the
longitudinal reinforcement.
Min Rebar Size
Specify the minimum size of reinforcing bar to be used in the
longitudinal reinforcement.
Max Spiral Reinf Size
Specify the maximum size of reinforcing bar to be used in the spiral ties.

Concrete parameters
Concrete Strength
Specify the ultimate strength of the concrete (f'C ), in the selected units.
Modulus of Elasticity (Concrete)
Young's modulus for steel reinforcing bars (EC), in the selected units.
Concrete Density
Specify a unit weight to be used for concrete (wC), in the selected units.
Concrete Cover
Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for spiral ties, in the
selected units.
General Parameters
Critical Depth Ratio calculation

Select Calculate to have the program determine the Critical Depth Ratio
or User Input to specify a Critical Depth Ratio in the following field.
Critical Depth Ratio
(User Input only) Soil depth at which vertical stress appears to become
constant is known as the Critical Depth. This value is the ratio of critical
depth to the pier diameter. Typical range of critical depth ratio lies from
10 to 20.
Neglected Soil Resistance Zone
Neglected soil zone at top at bottom are regions excluded from skin friction
calculation.
Neglected Top Soil Layer for Skin Friction
For top layer skin friction, typically first five feet are neglected.
Additionally, any backfill layer should be neglected for skin friction.
Neglected Bottom Soil Layer for Skin Friction
For bottom layer skin friction, in case of “Straight” pier profile typically
soil layer equal to one pier diameter thickness is neglected and in the
case of “Belled” pier profile, a soil layer equal to sum of bell periphery
and pier diameter is neglected.
< Previous
Cancel
User Manual — 325

Finish
Completes the Wizard and adds the new Drilled Pier Job to the active
project file.
4.7 Pile Cap

The Pile Cap Wizard is a step-by-step process to parametrically create a
foundation supported on piles. Complete the data fields on each page and then
click Next to proceed. Once you are finished, click the Finish button to
4.7.1 Pile Cap Job page


Job Name
This should be unique for each job. By default Job Name is set as Pile
Cap Job.
Design Code
l US (default)
l British
l Indian
Default Unit Type
l English (default)
l SI
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Pile Cap Job.
4.7.2 Load page

Used to provide support force and moment values applied to the pile cap.
Moment / Force Unit

User Manual — 327

Load table
gravity load.

< Previous
Next >
Cancel


Update Table
Delete

deleting.

l Index - The first column indicates the index of the load combination.
use.
User Manual — 329

(empty) row.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

available in drop-down lists reflect the choices made on the Pile Cap Job
page.
Column / Pedestal Depth


parallel to the X axis), in the selected units.
Column / Pedestal Width

parallel to the Z axis), in the selected units.
Wt of Concrete
units.
Side Cover (Cs)
Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the sides of the pile
cap reinforcement, in the selected units.
Bottom Clear Cover (Cb)
layer of pile cap reinforcement above the piles, in the selected units.
Pile in Pile Cap (Cp)
The distance from the bottom of the pile cap to the top of the piles, in
the selected units.
Initial Thickness
The minimum thickness used in design, in the selected units.
Pedestal Height
Height of a pedestal used at the support, taken from top of pile cap, in
the selected units.
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
User Manual — 331

4.7.5 Pile layout (Predefined) page

Used to specify pile arrangement for a pile cap using sets of predefined pile
layouts. These allow the program to automatically choose the best possible
pile arrangement.

Select a support from the current job for which you would like to input
pile arrangement.
Pile Capacity
The Pile Capacity group box allows you to input the forces that a pile is meant
to bear.
Unit
Select the force unit used for Pile Capacity parameters.
Lateral
Specify the lateral force a pile is meant to bear.
Vertical
Specify the vertical force a pile is meant to bear.
Uplift
Specify the uplifting force a pile is meant to bear.

Pile Dia
Diameter of a pile, in the selected units.
Spacing
Spacing between piles, in the selected units.
Edge Distance
Distance between the edges of the pile cap and edge piles, in the selected
units.
Show Loading on Support
Opens the Load Table for Support <#> dialog, which displays the
total loading on the support for each load case selected under Support for
Pile Arrangement.
Pile Arrangement Type
The Pile Arrangement Type group box allows you to input the coordinates for
a pile arrangement or have STAAD Foundation calculate a pile arrangement
automatically.
Auto Arrangement
The Auto Arrangement radio option allows you to have STAAD
Foundation calculate the pile arrangement. In order to have STAAD
Foundation calculate the pile arrangement, select Auto Arrangement and
click on the Calculate button. A window will appear displaying all
possible pile arrangements corresponding to the pile loads in all the load
cases according to the BOCA standard.
Calculate
Opens a window displaying all possible pile arrangements corresponding
to the pile loads in all the load cases according to the BOCA standard
when the Auto Arrangement radio option is selected. Given below is the
figure of possible pile arrangement.
User Manual — 333

Show Pile Reactions
Select Arrangement
The Select Arrangement button allows you to select the current pile

arrangement for the design of the pile cap. If you do not want to use the
current pile arrangement, recalculate the arrangement.
< Previous
Next >
Note: If you are using the predefined pile layout method, do not enter
any values into the Pile Layout (Parametric) page. Simply click
Finish.
Cancel
4.7.6 Pile layout (Parametric) page

Used to specify pile arrangement for a pile cap by entering rectangular and
circular pile arrangements.
Note: If circular arrangement is chosen, the program will design that pile
cap as Octagonal Pile Cap.

Used to select a support from the current job for which you would like to
User Manual — 335

input pile arrangement.
Spacing selection
Select to use either a Row Spacing or Column spacing for Rectangular
layout.
Pile Data
Used to input the forces that a pile is meant to bear.
Unit
The Unit drop-down list box allows you to select the force unit used for
Pile Capacity and length unit used for spacing, diameter, edge distance
etc.
Lateral
Vertical
Uplift
Dia
Diameter of a pile.
Edge
edges of a pile.
Arrangement Type
circular arrangement will be design as octagonal pile cap.
l Number of Rows
l Number of Columns
l Row Spacing
l Column Spacing


arrangement.
arrangement.
below.
table and figure.
Select Current Arrangement
Show Pile Reactions
User Manual — 337

< Previous
Cancel
Next >
Completes the Wizard and adds the new Pile Cap Job to the active
project file.
4.8 Ribbed Beam Footing

The Ribbed Beam Footing Wizard is a step-by-step process to parametrically
create a Ribbed Beam footing. Complete the data fields on each page and then
click Next to proceed. Once you are finished, click the Finish button to

To create an Ribbed Beam Footing job using the

toolkit
1. Select Project Info > Create Ribbed(Beam) Footing in the Main
Navigator pane.
The Data Input Wizard for an Ribbed Beam Footing opens.
The new Ribbed Beam Footing job is added to the project in the Main
Navigator pane.
To design an Ribbed Beam Footing job using the

toolkit
1. Select Edit Ribbed Beam Footing Job > Ribbed Beam Footing
Job: <job name> > Design in the Main Navigation pane.
A dialog confirms you want to proceed with designing the Ribbed Beam
Footing job.
2. Click Yes.
To edit an individual Ribbed Beam Footing dimen-

sion
Individual Ribbed Beam Footing dimensions can be edited.

User Manual — 339

To edit an Ribbed Beam Footing job using the

toolkit
Job: <job name> > Edit in the Main Navigation pane.
To delete an Ribbed Beam Footing job using the

toolkit
Job: <job name> > Delete in the Main Navigation pane.
A dialog confirms the removal of the Ribbed Beam Footing job.
2. Click Yes.
4.8.1 Design Philosophy

In current release of the program Grade beam (ribbed beam) foundation is
only supported for Indian code.
For Grade Beam (Ribbed Beam) footing, Service Design, soil bearing check
and overturning check is same as combined footing(only the self wt of Beam
and & UDL on beam are considered and volume of beam projected inside soil
is excluded to calculate soil weight properly)
For ultimate design (factored design), entire longitudinal moment (Sagging &
Hogging) and shear force are resisted by beam. Slab portion only resist
transverse moment & shear force (As an inverted cantilever slab projected
from both side face of Beam)

Beam Design is strictly done as Balanced Section Design. Over Reinforced

Section is not allowed. Program will automatically choose single layer/double
layer Reinforcement according to the requirement.
Stirrup Calculation is done when shear force is more than τc.b.d. For other
case only nominal stirrup would be provided.
Concrete & Steel Bond safety is checked in working stress method.
4.8.2 Ribbed (Beam) Footing Job Setup

page
Job Name
"Ribbed(Beam) Footing."
Design Code
Ribbed beams may only be designed using the Indian code.
Default Unit Type
Ribbed beams may only use SI units.
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Ribbed Beam Footing Job.
User Manual — 341

4.8.3 Concrete And Rebar page
available in drop-down lists reflect the choices made on the Ribbed Beam
Job page.
Note: Only Metric rebar sizes are available for ribbed beam foundation.

Specify a density to be used for concrete, in the selected units.
units.
used in the design. Sizes listed correspond to the
< Previous

Next >
Cancel
4.8.4 Cover, Soil, and Safety page

down lists reflect the choices made on the Ribbed Beam Job page.
Factor of Safety Against Overturning

Unit Weight of Soil
units.
Specify the allowable (?) capacity of the soil, in the selected units.
User Manual — 343

Note: For surcharge calculation only the cantilever portion of slab
projected from each side of beam are to be considered. While
calculation of soil weight above footing STAAD Foundation engine
automatically excludes beam volume and pedestal volume for
accurate estimation of soil weight.
Bottom Clear Cover

units.
Pedestal Dimensions table
Table rows represent supports with the same numbers. Provide the
pedestal dimensions for the corresponding support.
l Ped Ht - If a pedestal is used a this support, specify a height, in the

selected units.
l Ped Depth - Specify a column (or pedestal, height is specified) depth
l Ped Width - Specify a column (or pedestal, height is specified) depth
< Previous
Next >
Cancel

Used to input spread footing geometry parameters used in design or checking.

Design Type
dimension:
l Calculate Dimension - The footing size will be checked and resized to

the smallest size which meets all specified loads; ranging between the
minimum and maximum dimensions provided (inclusive). Calculate
the design.
Column Distance
Specify the distance between the columns (direction parallel to the X
axis) to be used for the footing, along with unit. For a Calculate
Width
footing, along with unit. For a Calculate Dimension design, this is used as
the minimum dimension to check.
Thickness
User Manual — 345

Maximum Length
Maximum Width
Maximum Thickness
unit.
Length Increment
Thickness Increment
< Previous
Next >
Cancel
Exits the Wizard without creating a new Ribbed Footing Job.
4.8.6 Beam Geometry page

Used to input grade beam geometry parameters used in design or checking.

Beam Loading - UDL On Beam

Specify a uniform dead load applied over the length of the grade beam, in
the selected units.
For example, this may be the weight of a wall load over the beam.
Min / Max Depth

spread footing.
Beam Width
Min / Max Bars Size (Main Bar)
Specify the range of permissible longitudinal reinforcing bar sizes.
Min / Max Bars Size (Stirrup)
Specify the range of permissible stirrup sizes.
Stirrup Type
Select the number of stirrup legs present in a cross section.
Min / Max Spacing of Stirrup
Specify the permissible range of stirrup spacing, in the selected units.
< Previous
User Manual — 347

Next >
Cancel
4.8.7 Load page

Used to provide support force and moment values applied to the ribbed
footing. Both supports have a load table
Moment / Force Unit

Load tables
gravity load.



< Previous
Next >
Cancel

Update Table
Delete
User Manual — 349


deleting.

bination.
to use.
(empty) row.
< Previous
Cancel
Finish
Completes the Wizard and adds the new Ribbed Footing Job to the

Section 5
Creating Reports and
Drawings
5.1 Creating Detailed Calculations Sheets
STAAD Foundation creates a set of detailed calculations for each design. These
include equations and code references for each check performed. These can be
output to hard copy.
Hint: If changes have been made to a job, you will need to re-analyze
and/or re-design the job before printing the calculations. Otherwise, these
changes will not be reflected in the output.
5.1.1 Printing a set of calculations

1. Perform an analysis/design on the job for which you want to print cal-
culations.
2. Click Calculation Sheet tab in the View window.
3. Scroll to the bottom of the Calculation Sheet.
User Manual — 351

4. Click Print Calculation Sheet.
The Print dialog box opens.
5.2 Create Drawing Files for use with CAD

software
STAAD Foundation can generate construction drawings for use in your
organization's deliverables. These drawing are produced using tools found in
the Main View window Detail Drawing and GA Drawing tabs.
5.2.1 Creating a detail plan and elevation

drawing for a foundation
1. Create a foundation job.
2. Perform the design.
Hint: You can group isolated footings to control the number of

different designs.
3. Select the Detail Drawing tab in the Main View window.

4. Select the option for Detail Drawing.
5. Select the footing you want to display (if multiple footings are included in
this job).
6. (Optional) Click Save Drawing Notes to customize the Detail Drawing
notes for the foundation type.
7. Click Save Drawing As….
The Save Drawing As dialog opens.
8. Specify a name for the drawing and select the location where it will be
saved.
9. Click Save.
5.2.2 Creating a foundation schedule

(table) for a foundation job

Section 5 Creating Reports and Drawings

different designs.
3. Select the Detail Drawing tab in the Main View window.

4. Select the option for Schedule Drawing.
5. (Optional) Click the Save Drawing Notes button to customize the Detail
Drawing notes for the foundation type.
saved.
8. Click Save.
5.2.3 Creating a general arrangement

drawing for a foundation job

different designs.
3. Select the GA Drawing tab in the Main View window.

saved.
6. Click Save.
User Manual — 353

Section 6
Integration with
External Programs
6.1 Working with STAAD.Pro
In most cases the forces and moments on the foundation are given by the
analysis of the superstructure. To ensure a seamless and efficient integration
with the analysis software, STAAD Foundation includes an Import facility built
into the program. This option allows you to import the support co-ordinates
and forces/moments on the individual supports from a structural analysis
software program.
Similarly, STAAD.Pro V8i (SELECTseries 2) release 20.07.07 and later include
a Foundation Design mode which can be used to export and update structural
model data into STAAD Foundation. This option can be used to exchange the
same data as the import
Note: You must first perform an analysis and design on a STAAD.Pro

model in STAAD.Pro before importing the model into STAAD Foundation.
User Manual — 355

6.1.1 Things to Consider When Using
STAAD.Pro
When a STAAD.Pro model is imported, the reaction signs are as per
STAAD.Pro. STAAD.Pro does not report signs for SRSS method, hence there
is no way for STAAD Foundation to have signs for SRSS load case.
Importing from different STAAD models in one foundation file is possible
providing node numbers for supports are different, once the first model is
imported, use the update model command to import remaining model.
Hint: For rigid foundations (i.e., isolated, combined, pilecap, etc.) the
supported nodes in the STAAD.Pro model should be oriented to the top of
the footing. However, for mat foundations, the supported nodes in the
STAAD.Pro model should be modeled at the bottom of the footing.
6.1.2 Copy and paste STAAD.Pro load type

using Excel
Using Excel is very advantageous as you can drag and drop load type for
multiple loads. 1 in the first column stands for ticked checkbox, you can
simply exclude the load cases by setting the value in first column as 0.
6.1.3 Initiating STAAD.Pro import from

the Command Line
If you are programming routines and want to automate the import of
STAAD.Pro output into STAAD Foundation, you can do so through the
Windows Command Line.
The following syntax is used:
<location of STAAD Foundation executable> <location of the
STAAD.Pro input file>
So, for example, if you STAAD Foundation program is located in C:\STAAD
Foundation V5.2\ and your STAAD.Pro input file is
C:\SproV8i\STAAD\Examp\US\examp08.std, the following command may be
used:
C:/STAAD Foundation v5.2/staadfoundation
C:/SproV8i\STAAD\Examp\US\examp08.std

Section 6 Integration with External Programs
6.1.4 Importing data from STAAD.Pro

1. Select the Import STAAD.Pro file tool from the Home ribbon tab.
Note: You may be asked to save any changes made to the current
STAAD Foundation project.
The STAAD.Pro File Import dialog box opens.

2. Select the STAAD input file (file extension .std) from which you want to
import data.
3. Click Open.
6.1.5 Exporting from Within STAAD.Pro

The following procedure is used to export all supports and load cases to
STAAD Foundation from within STAAD.Pro. Options are available to export
portions of the structure or only select loads.
1. Perform a successful analysis in STAAD.Pro.

2. Select Mode > Foundation Design.
or
Select the Foundation Design mode tab.
The Foundation page opens.
3. In the Foundation Design Options dialog, select the Use All Supports
option is it is not already selected.
2. Click the Include All button to transfer all Available Load Cases to the
Selected Load Cases List.
3. Click the Start button to open STAAD Foundation and import all
STAAD.Pro support data and results
Note: For additional information on using the Foundation Design mode,

refer to section 6 of the STAAD.Pro Graphical Environment help.
6.2 Working with spreadsheet programs

Spreadsheets are one of key formats used by structural engineers to exchange
data, produce results, process data, etc. STAAD Foundation incorporates this
need with a tight integration with spreadsheet formats.
User Manual — 357

l STAAD Foundation Advanced V8i supports Microsoft® database format.
With this feature, STAAD Foundation files (file extension .afs) can be
linked to various Microsoft Office® components.
l STAAD Foundation also includes a Microsoft Office Excel® spreadsheet
file which can be used to setup single or multiple jobs through a
spreadsheet program (capable of reading/writing the Microsoft Office
Excel® 2003 .xls file format).
l Detailed program output can be saved in a spreadsheet file in the Excel
XML format (file extension .xml) for post-processing and detailed results
verification.
l Copy and paste to and from spreadsheets is supported in tables within the
program.
This also can be used as a means to input data from various CAD programs or
analysis packages. The data can output to those programs and then copy from
the spreadsheet and then pasted into STAAD Foundation.
6.2.1 Import Foundation Input from a

Microsoft Office Excel® spreadsheet
STAAD Foundation includes a set of tools which can be used as an alternate
interface to quickly enter in multiple jobs simultaneously for a General
Foundation mode project.
Note: You may download a new copy of the spreadsheet from the Be
Communities site at
http://communities.bentley.com/products/structural/structural_
analysis___design/m/structural_analysis_and_design_
gallery/default.aspx.
This feature can be used as flexible means to import geometry, loads, and
other data from virtually any structural analysis & design software. By
creating Microsoft Office Excel macros, this process can be streamlined for re-
use in your organization.
Input data into the spreadsheet

1. Open the Multiple Jobs Excel Input.xls spreadsheet.
2. (Optional) Save the file in a new location.

Hint: You may want to save the file under a different name (e.g., the
physical project's name or your companies job number).
3. Select the Units you want to use on the Units tab.

4. Global data is entered on the first set of spreadsheet tabs:
a. Set the number and location of X- and Z- axis grids on the Grid
Tables tab.
Hint: The correct number of grids will be highlighted in both

tables. Values in gray cells will not be imported into STAAD
Foundation.
b. Node coordinates and column / pedestal data are entered on the

Support Data tab.
c. Load case data is entered on the Load Table tab.
d. Column reaction loads are entered on the Loads tab.
5. Enter the local data for all of the job types you want to add to your STAAD
Foundation project. Data entry is analogous to the type of foundation for
each tab:
l Isolated Foundation
l Combined Foundation
l Mat Foundation
l Pile Cap Job
Hint: Right click and delete tabs for foundation types you won't need
in your project to prevent any unnecessary data being imported.
6. Save the spreadsheet and exit Excel.
Import multiple job datasets into a STAAD Foun-

dation project
STAAD Foundation follows predefined format for importing data from
spreadsheets.
1. Select the Import Excel tool.
A Windows open dialog opens, with the filter set for Microsoft Office
Excel® Files (.XLS file extension).
2. Navigate to the folder where the copy of Multiple Jobs Excel
Input.xls was saved.
User Manual — 359

Note: If you have not saved a copy of Multiple Jobs Excel
Input.xls, it will be located in the save folder where STAAD
Foundation was installed. The default directory path is
C:\Staad.foundation 6\
Warning: It is recommended to save a copy of Multiple Jobs

Excel Input.xls to a different location on your computer or
network so as the original may be re-used as a template.
3. Click Open.
The project data is imported. For each foundation type tab included in
the spreadsheet, a new job is created.
Export data into a spreadsheet

The current STAAD Foundation project can be exported to a spreadsheet file.
This can be useful to easily make large amounts of changes to the input data
(structure, geometry, loads, etc.). The resulting input can be re-imported into
your STAAD Foundation project file or used to create a new project file.
1. Click the Export to Spreadsheet tool on the Home ribbon tab.
The STAAD Foundation Export to Excel File dialog box opens.
2. Select a location an type a name for your file, with the file extension
.xml.
3. Click Open.
Exported file is saved in the Excel XML format and can be opened using
Microsoft Office Excel®.
6.2.2 Detailed Output to Spreadsheets

STAAD Foundation offers detailed output in spreadsheet format for Isolated,
Combined, Octagonal, and Strap foundations. The program analysis and design
results for each load case are made available through detailed output. This
features enables you to verify foundation design results at every single design
step.
For example, for each isolated footing STAAD Foundation Detailed Output
provides tables showing each load case results for the following:
l Soil Bearing Pressure

l Overturning Pressure

l One Way Shear

l Punching Shear
l Moment and Reinforcement
6.2.3 Manually Inputting Data from an

Excel® spreadsheet
STAAD Foundation tables support copy and paste of spreadsheet data. This
provides you with the ability to save commonly used data sets in an external
spreadsheet file for re-use. Spreadsheets also offer greater power in creating
complex relationships between values; thus allowing you to generate data
points based on complex geometrical patterns.
The copied data must have same number of columns as the STAAD Foundation
input table.
User Manual — 361

Valid Data Types
The following tables contained in Data Input data or dialogs can be used to
paste data:
l Linear grid
l Radial grid
l Column position
l Column dimension
l Add Self Weight - Multiplier values may be pasted from spreadsheet appli-
cation.
l Applied Load Safety Factor
l Mat Foundation: Physical Beam table
l Mat Foundation: Pile Position table
l Mat Foundation: Pile Spring table
l Mat Foundation: Polyline region
l Mat Foundation: Edit Meshing region - Once a mat region has been
created, it can then be transformed to any arbitrary shape by pasting coor-
dinates into the Edit Meshing region dialog.
l Load Combination table - The checkbox column can also be manipulated
by using a 1 to signify selected (checked) and 0 to signify unselected in
the spreadsheet data.
Hint: This facility can be particularly useful when importing a large

number of load combinations from analysis software.

Copying and pasting data from a spreadsheet to

STAAD Foundation
1. Highlight the extents of the data in the spreadsheet program.
2. Copy the cell contents.

3. Switch to the STAAD Foundation program.
4. Open the form or dialog containing the table where data will be pasted.
5. Select first cell of input table in either the Data Input form or dialog.
Note: Make sure the whole cell is selected (blinking text line should
not appear). Clicking the cell field away from the number
6. Press <CTRL+V> to paste the data into the table.

Please refer to document for Neutral file format (xml read and write
function) to explore more connectivity options with other software.
User Manual — 363

Copying and pasting data from STAAD Foundation
to a spreadsheet
Output tables generated by a successful analysis/design can be copied and
pasted into a spreadsheet.
1. Perform an analysis/design on the STAAD Foundation job.
Output tables are displayed on one or more tabs in the Output pane.
2. Select the cells, columns, or rows you want to copy.
Hint: The entire table can be selected by clicking the top-left most
heading cell.
3. Press <CTRL+C>.
4. Switch to the spreadsheet application.
5. Paste the contents into the spreadsheet.
6.3 Working with Neutral Files

STAAD Foundation V8i supports Neutral file (xml) format. With this feature,
STAAD Foundation files (file extension .afs) can be exported to or imported
from neutral file (.xml).
This feature is developed focusing on integration of STAAD Foundation with
any other program supporting xml format. With some programming help,
STAAD Foundation can be seamlessly integrated with any in-house or third
party package. e.g. Loading and geometry input from a piping software can be
imported to STAAD Foundation using XML technology, batch import is also
possible.
STAAD Foundation V8i supports full import/export of isolated footing job to
xml format, including design parameters. For other jobs, loading and
geometry data can be imported/exported.
Note: This feature can be further extended based on the user request.
Please contact us through a service ticket at
http://selectservices.bentley.com/en-US/

6.3.1 Detailed Output

Several foundation types in the General mode are capable of saving detailed
output to the open Microsoft Office Excel® Excel XML format (.xml file
extension). These files can be read by Microsoft Office Excel® for post
processing and use in custom reports.
Hint: You can use various file conversion features of Microsoft Office Excel
to save the detailed output into other formats, as well.
User Manual — 365

Section 7
Quick Tour
The following is a short tutorial on using the General Foundations mode of
STAAD Foundation. If this is the first time you have ever used the program, it
is recommended that you perform this exercise to familiarize yourself with the
program.
This Quick Tour is a set of short example exercises that illustrate how to use
STAAD.foundation to design several different types of foundations. The
procedure for importing support co-ordinates and forces/moments on the
individual supports from STAAD.Pro is also discussed.
7.1 Isolated Footing Example

In this example, you will create a new project to illustrate the process for
designing an isolated foundation.
7.1.1 Creating a new general foundation

project
1. Start STAAD Foundation, if you have not already done so.
2. Create a new General Foundation project file by either:
User Manual — 367

l Selecting New from the Application menu button
or
l Press <CTRL+N>
or
l Click the General Mode shortcut on the Start Page (in which
case, step 3 is not used).
The Create New Project dialog box opens.
3. Select General Foundation, and click Open.
The program window opens an empty project file in the General
Foundation mode.
7.1.2 Entering Support Coordinates

1. To enter the coordinates for supports that construct the foundation plan
of a project, click on the leaf called Column Position under Foundation
Plan group in Main Navigator pane.
The Column Position table opens in the Data Area pane.
2. Input the support coordinates (0,0,0), (10,0,0), (10,0,10), (0,0,15),

Section 7 Quick Tour
(14,0,0) and (5,0,5) for position numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, respectively.

The tab key or the arrow keys may be used to move from one cell to the
next in the table.
Hint: Make sure length unit is set as “ft”. To change/set current

length unit, click the Set Input/Output Unit tool found in the
Standard toolbar.
Note: The supports along with their respective node numbers are
displayed in the Graphics Window once you click on a cell outside of
the row you are currently in.
7.1.3 Defining the Loads

This section uses the Loads & Factors leaf in the Main Navigator pane in
conjunction with the Data area for entering load data.
User Manual — 369

Create a Load Case
1. In order to define loads, please click on the Loads & Factors group in the
The Load Description page opens in the Data Area pane. This page
allows you to define loads for load cases, as well as assign loads.
2. Select Loads & Factors > Create New Load Case entry in Main
Navigator.
A form under the load description area will appear allowing you to
create a new load case.
3. Enter Load Case 1 for Load Title.

The Load Title allows you to give each load case a descriptive name to
help identify between load cases. Leave the Load Type set as Primary.
Note: Three load types are available: Primary, Service, and Ultimate.
Primary loads can be further used to create combination loads.

Service loads are not factored and are used for soil bearing pressure
checks. Ultimate loads are factored and are used for shear and
reinforcement design.
4. While creating a new load case, load items from an existing load case can
be copied. As there are no defined load case yet, leave the Load Case No
field as None.
5. Select No for the Add Self Weight field.
6. Click on the Add button to have the load case created.
The new load case appears in the Load Description Tree in the Load
pane.
7. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 and create a similar load cased titled Live Load.
Specify the loads imposed on our foundation by the

columns.
1. Select the Loads & Factors > Add a Column Reaction Load entry
in Main Navigator.
or
Right click on Load Case 1: Load Case 1 entry in the Load Description
Tree and select Add Column Reaction Load from the pop-up menu.
The Load Data pane opens a form for entering nodal load information.
User Manual — 371

2. Enter a value of 5 for Fx, and a value of –5 for Fy field.
3. Then click on the Add button to accept the load input.
Note: Negative and positive values follow the sign conventions of the
axis system. Negative values are downward, compressive forces and
positive values are upward, tensile forces.
The load will now appear under the Column Reaction Loading folder in
the Load Description pane.
4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 to add a column reaction load to the "Live Load"
case with Fz = 10 kip.
Assign the load to all supports

1. Select the new column load in the Data Area pane by clicking on it.
2. Click the Assign button to have the load assigned to all the supports in
the project.
3. Then select Assign To View from the drop-down list as the assignment
method.

The assigned loadings are displayed on the nodes in the graphics window.
4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 and assign the Live Load case to all supports in
the view.
Note: Alternatively, we could have selected all the supports in the Graphics
window by clicking on them and then selected Assign To Selection. Or, we
could have selected Assign To Edit List and then typed in the list of nodes
for each support.
Load Combinations
If you have multiple load cases and want to combine them, you can use the
Load Combination feature.
1. Click on the Create New Load Combination leaf under the Loads & Factors
group in Main navigator pane.
2. To define serviceability and design factors for each load case in a project,
you may use the Safety Factor Table. To bring up the Safety Factors page,
click on the Safety Factors leaf under Loads and Factors group in Main
Navigator pane.
A table allowing you to input serviceability and design factors for each load
case will be displayed in the Data Area pane.
By default, STAAD Foundation will assign values for the safety factors
depending on the load type. Refer to section 4.3.3.2 for a detailed explanation
of the default values. The default values can be changed by inputting new
values into the table like any spreadsheet. The tab key or arrow keys may be
used to move from one cell to the next in the table. The serviceability factor
will be applied when checking the base pressure of a foundation (geotechnical
design). The design factor will be used for design.
User Manual — 373

7.1.4 Create an Isolated Footing Jobs
Now that all the global project data has been inputted, you have the ability to
design the foundation using Isolated Supports, Pile Caps, Strip Footing or you
could support the entire structure on a single Mat Foundation. You will not
have to create separate input files for entering all this information. All you
have to do is to create separate jobs under the same project.
Use the following procedure to create a job:
1. Click on Job Setup > Create a New Job in the Main Navigator pane.
The Job Info and Loading forms open in the Data Area pane.

2. Enter the following values in the Job Info form (top half of the Data area):
3. Enter Job1 for the Job Name.
4. Select Isolated for the Job Type.
5. Select Assign to all support for the Support Assignment method.
6. Click the Select All ( ) button to move all the load cases over to the
Selected Load Cases list on the bottom of the page.
A new leaf is added to the Main Navigation pane for the Isolated Footing
job.
Note: When there are multiple jobs and load cases in a project, you can
quickly switch between jobs or loads using the tools in the Standard
User Manual — 375

toolbar. Job settings of the selected job may be edited by clicking the ‘Edit
Current Job’ leaf under job setup group in Main Navigator pane.
7.1.5 Entering Design Parameters

When you begin a new project, only the Project Info, Foundation Plan, Loads
and Factor and Job Setup groups will appear in the Main Navigator pane. The
first three groups allow you to specify the physical model upon which the
foundation design is to be performed. This data is global to all jobs which are
created within a single project file.
A fourth group (Job Setup) allows you to create a new job or edit an existing
job. It is only when you create a New Job (a set of constraints for the program
to use in performing a foundation design) that groups related to the current
design process will appear.
Now that you have created a job, a new group called “Isolated Footing Job” is
created in the Main Navigator pane. This group allows you to enter design
parameters like footing geometry, concrete cover, soil parameters etc. The
data contained within this job is local to this isolated footing, but will make
use of the common global data available to all jobs in the project file.
For the purposes of this example, you can use the default values provided for
all design parameter sections. The parameter sections are explained in detail
in the General Foundation section.
Note: STAAD Foundation gives you the flexibility to check an existing

foundation by specifying footing geometry like Length, Width and
Thickness or design a new foundation where the program will calculate
footing dimension.

7.1.6 Performing an Isolated Footing

Design
1. Either
l select the Design/Analysis tool on the Home ribbon tab
or
l select the Isolated Footing Job > Design Parameters > Design in
A warning dialog opens to confirm you want to proceed with the design.
2. Click Yes.

User Manual — 377

3. Either
l select Save As… from the Home ribbon tab
or
l Press <CTRL-S>
to save the project. Provide a file name and locate the file where you
would like it stored before clicking Save.
7.2 Mat Foundation Example

Note: STAAD.Pro must be installed on your computer before proceeding
with this exercise.
You will use STAAD.Pro US Example No. 8 for this example. STAAD
Foundation will use the imported geometry and support reactions to design a
mat foundation for the structure.
You can only import a STAAD.Pro model that has been successfully analyzed,
because you will want to have the support reactions available for the
foundation design. So, if you have not already run the analysis for STAAD.Pro
U.S. Example No. 8 open the example in STAAD.Pro
(C:\Spro2007\STAAD\Examp\US\Examp\ Examp08.std), run the analysis,
and then return to this Quick Tour.
7.2.1 Creating a New Job for a Mat Foun-

dation
2. Enter a job name, choose Job Type as Mat, and Design Code as US.

3. Click the button to include all the Load Cases.

4. Click the Create Job button.
The new Mat Foundation job is added to the Main Navigator pane.
7.2.2 Defining the Mat Boundary

Now we would like to define the boundary of the mat.
1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mesh Generation > Add Meshing
region > Add a rectangular region in the Main Navigator pane.
User Manual — 379

The Rectangular Boundary form opens in the Data Input pane.
2. Set Unit as “inch” and input X1,Z1 as -30,-30. Enter a Length of 515
inches and Width of 345 inches. Leave the Y level as 0.0 as our
support columns are all at the same elevation.
3. Click the Add Region button to create the mat boundary.

Note: To make the rectangular boundary easier to see, you may want to
toggle off the grid if it is currently displayed. Use the Toggle grid tool in the
Standard toolbar or the Linear Grid setup form.
Hint: Now it would be a good idea to save your model, since you have done
a substantial amount of work to get to this point. Select File > Save or
press CTRL+S.
7.2.3 Creating a Mesh

Now we are ready to add the boundary and create the mesh.
1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mesh Generation > Meshing Setup
in the Main Navigator pane.
User Manual — 381

The Meshing Setup form opens in the Data Input pane.
2. In the Main View window, select the rectangular boundary region
created in the previous step.
The boundary is highlighted in red.
3. Select the Boundary option and specify a title for the boundary as the
Region Identifier.

Note: In this example project we will not create any holes in the
mesh.
4. Click the Add Region button to add the rectangular region as a meshing
boundary.
5. Select the Region Identifier name you entered from the Meshing setup
tree.
6. Specify a maximum element size of 12 inches.
7. Click the Generate Mesh button.
The Meshing Options dialog opens.
8. Select the option for Quadrilateral Meshing since our boundary is rec-
tangular. Leave other options as their default.
9. Click OK.
The mesh is automatically generated.
7.2.4 Specifying Slab Thickness

As this is a physical modeling system, slab thickness and soil properties are
automatically assigned to the slab with default values.
1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Analysis Properties > Slab
Thickness in the Main Navigation pane.
User Manual — 383

The Slab Thickness form is displayed in the Data Input pane.
2. Specify an Analysis Thickness of 1.0 ft and a Design Thickness of 0.9167
ft (12 inches).
3. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mesh Generation > Soil Property
in the Main Navigator pane.
The Soil Property form opens in the Data Input pane.

4. Select the option to Use Soil Spring. Leave the default value for the Sub-
grade Modulus.
7.2.5 Analyzing the Slab

We are ready to analyze the slab.

Hint: Save your work one more time.
1. Select either:
Mat Foundation job > Mat Slab analysis/design options >
Analyze in the Main Navigator pane.
or
The Analyze / Design tool in the Standard toolbar.
The progress of the analysis process is displayed in the Status Bar along
with the steps being performed by the program in the Design Progress
Report of the Output pane.
The analysis engine opens to display the progress of the finite element
analysis.
User Manual — 385

Once the analysis process is complete, the deformed shape of the slab is
displayed.
2. By default the deformed plates showing the node displacements appear

in the graphics display window.

If the slab’s deformed shape is not apparent in your graphics display, you
may need to change the scaling values. Click on the toolbar for changing
scale which will bring up Scale Setup page in data area pane.
3. Under the Result Scales category, decrease the Displacement value to

increase the amount of deflection shown.
Hint: Why do you decrease it to increase the deflection? The

Displacement value in the dialog box is the actual displacement of the
structure per unit distance on the graphic diagram. Therefore, if you
reduce the amount of actual structural deflection required to display a
unit distance of deflection on the diagram, you will see a larger
apparent displacement on the diagram.
After a successful analysis, the program will add several tables in the
output pane below.
4. Click on the Displacement tab to view nodal displacement for current
selected load case.
User Manual — 387

This table lists the node displacement for the three translational and
three rotational degrees of freedom.
5. Click on “Disp Summary” tab to view node displacement summary for all
six degrees of freedom among all load cases.
Note: Maximum positive displacement in Y direction is 0.049418 in

and maximum negative displacement is .792751 in.
6. Click on the ‘Support Reactions’ tab to view soil pressure for the current
load case. To view the maximum reaction among all load cases please
click on “Reaction Summary” tab.

7. To view soil pressure contour, please click on the “Output View Options”
leaf under “Mat slab design options” group in main navigator pane.
The Output View Options form opens in the Data pane.

8. Select the Show Soil Pressure option to view the soil pressure contour in
the View window.
User Manual — 389

A soil pressure legend will be displayed at the left of the view pane along
with the soil pressure contour. Please note, the maximum soil pressure
for load case 1 is 4.556 kip/ft2. Also, minimum soil pressure is 0.0 which
means that some part of the mat has lost contact with the soil and the
program has distributed the pressure of that portion to the rest of the
mat slab.

9. We can easily verify the slab’s loss of contact with the soil by reviewing
“Contact Area” table. Please note for both load cases more than 80% of
total area is in contact with the soil.
To review plates stresses please click on the “Plate Stress” and “Plate
Stress Summary” pages. Please note that the stress summary page
displays a maximum value 68.636 kip-ft/ft. Please note that all plate
stress values are based on plate local axis system.
User Manual — 391

10. To view plate stress contours please click on the “Output View Options”
leaf under “Mat slab design options” group
A form will appear at data area pane. Please select “Show Plate Stress”
radio button and then choose “Global Mx” stress type.

The screen will look like the following figure. Please note that this
contour is based on the global X axis.
User Manual — 393

7.2.6 Slab Design
Now we go for designing the slab. Slab design in STAAD Foundation has three
distinct parts.
First step is to generate moment envelope. Next step is to design the slab and
the last step is to create reinforcement zones for reinforcement layout.
1. Select Mat Foundation job > Mat slab analysis/design options
> Moment envelope generation in the Main Navigator pane.

The Moment Envelope Generation form opens in the Data Input

pane.
2. Define the longitudinal axis of the slab by specifying Starting X / Z
coordinates of 0,0 and Ending X/ Z coordinates of 100, 0.
User Manual — 395

3. Select Use all load cases for the Select load type list.
4. Click the Generate Moment Envelope button to generate moment
envelope.
The program generates a finite number of discrete points which are used
as design points.
5. Select Mat Foundation job > Mat slab analysis/design options
> Design Parameters in the Main Navigator pane.
7.3 Pile Cap Example

In this example, you will create a new job inside this same project to illustrate
the process for designing a pile cap.
7.3.1 Create a New Pile Cap Job

2. Enter a job name, choose Job Type as Pile Cap, and Design Code as
US.

3. Select support node 1 in Main View window.

Support assignment type will be automatically switched to Assign to
selected support.

5. Click the Create Job button.
The new Pile Cap Foundation job is added to the Main Navigator pane.
The new job name also appears in the Job selection list in the Standard
toolbar.
7.3.2 Entering Pile Data

To create pile arrangement please click on the “Pile Layout(Predefined)” leaf.
User Manual — 397

1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mesh Generation > Add Meshing
region > Add a rectangular region in the Main Navigator pane
The Pile Arrangement Predefined form opens in the Data Input

pane.

2. Select support number 1 as the Support for Pile Arrangement

3. Input the following values for Pile Capacity:
vertical = 60 kips, lateral = 40 kips, and uplift = 40 kips.
4. Input the following values for pile geometry data:
pile diameter = 10 inches, Spacing = 36 inches, and Edge Distance = 24
inches
Hint: The total loading on the support is shown if we click on the

Show Loading On Support button.
5. Select Auto Arrangement and click the Calculate button.

A pop-up list opens containing all possible regular pile arrangements
which satisfy pile capacity criteria.
User Manual — 399

6. Choose 4 Pile Arrangement in the list and click OK.
The pile arrangement table is populated with the selected pile
arrangement.

7. (Optional) Click the Show Pile Reactions button to review the reaction
on each pile.
8. Click the Select Arrangement button to select the arrangement for the
design of this support's foundation.
7.3.3 Enter Pile Cap Design Parameters

1. Select Pile Cap Job > Design Parameters in the Main Navigator
pane.
The Design Parameters form opens in the Data Input pane.

2. Enter the following design parameters in the form, ensuring that the
correct units are displayed for each:
l Strength of Concrete: 4 ksi
l Yield Strength of Steel: 60 ksi
l Minimum Bar Size: 6
l Maximum Bar Size: 11
l Side cover (Cs): 4 in
l Bottom Cover (Cb): 3 in
l Pile in Pile Cap (Cp): 4 in
l Initial thickness: 18 in
7.3.4 Performing a Pile Cap Design

Now that the design parameters are entered, we are ready to perform the
design.
Hint: Now is a good time to save your work, if you haven't already done so.
User Manual — 401

1. Select either:
Pile Cap Job > Design in the Main Navigator pane.
or
Once the analysis process is complete, a results table appears in the
Output pane showing the pile cap dimensions and the bar size and
spacing in the longitudinal and transverse directions.
Note: The results are for only one of the six supports in the project
because pile arrangements were selected for only support 1.
The Calculation Sheet opens in the Main View window for reviewing the
detailed code checks.
7.4 Strip Footing Example

In this example, you will create a new job inside this same project to illustrate
the process for designing a strip footing.
7.4.1 Creating a Strip Footing Job

Now let us create a new job inside this same project to illustrate the process
for designing a combined footing.
2. Enter job name as “Strip1”.
3. Choose Job type as “Combined” and design code as US.


5. Click the Create Job button to create a new combined footing job.
The new Strip Footing job is added to the Main Navigator pane. The new
job name also appears in the Job selection list in the Standard toolbar.
Additionally, strip footing controls appear in the Job Info form.
6. Select node 2 and 3 in Main View window.
Nodes will be shown as selected as shown below.
7. Click Create from Selected Node in the . A tree view showing the
support assignment will appear.
User Manual — 403

The strip footing is graphically added between the two selected supports.
7.4.2 Entering Strip Footing Design Param-

eters
Now we need to input suitable design parameters. The input for both
Concrete & Rebar and Cover, Soil, & Safety are as same as the previous
isolated footing example. We will use the default parameters included in the
program
1. Select Combined Footing Job > Design Parameters > Footing
Geometry in the Main Navigator pane.

The Footing Geometry form opens in the Data Input pane.

2. Select Calculate Dimensions for the Design Type.
3. Specify other footing dimensions as follows:
l Minimum Left over hang length = 36 in
l Minimum Right over hang length = 36 in
l Minimum Width = 48 in
l Minimum Thickness = 12 in
l Maximum Length = 400 in
l Maximum Width = 400 in
l Maximum Thickness = 36 in
7.4.3 Performing a Strip Footing Design

Hint: Now is a good time to save your work, if you haven't already done so.
1. Select either:
Combined Footing Job > Design Parameters > Design in the Main
Navigator pane.
or
User Manual — 405

Once the analysis process is complete, a results table appears in the
Output pane showing the pile cap dimensions and the bar size and
spacing in the longitudinal and transverse directions.
Note: The results are for only one of the six supports in the project
because pile arrangements were selected for only support 1.
The Calculation Sheet opens in the Main View window for reviewing the
detailed code checks.
2. Click the Graphs tab in the Main View window to display both Bending
Moment and Shear Force diagrams.

7.5 Conclusion
We hope you have enjoyed this Quick Tour of STAAD Foundation. If you would
like additional assistance in learning how to use STAAD Foundation, there are
many resources available to you. Within the Online Help facility, you will find
documentation describing the program theory and a detailed description of
every command in the program. You may also view a number of animated
movie files that demonstrate how to perform various tasks.
Additional STAAD Foundation learning resources are available at Bentley
Systems, Inc. Web site at http://www.bentley.com/en-
US/Products/STAAD.foundation/.
User Manual — 407

Finally, we strongly encourage you to take advantage of Bentley’s technical
support service. Our support staff is most eager and willing to help you learn
to use the program correctly.
You may contact our STAAD Foundation technical support staff by visiting
http://www.bentley.com/serviceticketmanager
We hope you enjoy using the program and hope that it adds value and
efficiency to your engineering endeavors. If you have any comments regarding
the program, or suggestions on how it could be improved to better serve your
needs, we would very much like to hear from you.

Section 8
Technical Reference
8.1 Introduction to Finite Element Analysis
If you want to model a surface entity like a wall, a roof, or a slab—where the
load is distributed in more than one direction—you must use a surface entity
to carry that kind of loading. The kind of entity that is used to model a beam
or a column cannot be used to model a slab. A different entity referred to as a
finite element is required. In a finite element analysis, a wall or a slab is
subdivided into smaller parts consisting of triangles or quadrilaterals.
Note: Finite elements are often referred to as plates. These two words may
be used interchangeably for this purpose.
The difference between a beam and a plate is a load that is applied to the beam
must pass to one or both ends (supports).
User Manual — 409

Figure 8-1: Beam model load distribution
In a plate, load is distributed through the elements to the edges, resulting in

multiple load paths.
Figure 8-2: Plate model load distribution
STAAD Foundation uses plate elements in the modeling of mat foundations.
8.2 Element Load Specification

The following load specifications are available:
l Joint loads at element nodes in global directions.
l Concentrated loads at any user specified point within the element in
global or local directions.
l Uniform pressure on an element surface in global or local directions.
l Partial uniform pressure on a user specified portion of an element
surface in global or local directions.
l Linearly varying pressure on an element surface in local directions.
8.3 Theoretical Basis

The STAAD plate finite element is based on hybrid finite element
formulations. A complete quadratic stress distribution is assumed. For plane
stress action, the assumed stress distribution is as follows.

Section 8 Technical Reference
Figure 8-3: Assumed stress distribution
Complete quadratic assumed stress distribution:

   a1 
   1 x y 0 0 0 0 x 2 2xy 0  
 σx    a2 
 σy  =  0 0 0 1 x y 0 y2 0 2xy  a3 
   
2 

τxy
  − − − − 2
− M 

0 y 0 0 0 x 1 2 xy y x
   a10 
   
Where:
a1 through a10 = constants of stress polynomials.
8.4 Element Local Coordinate System

The precise orientation of local coordinates is determined as follows:
l The vector pointing from "A" to "B" is defined to be parallel to the local X-
axis.
l The cross product of vectors "AB" and "AC" defines a vector parallel to the
local Z-axis, i.e., z = AB x AC.
l The cross product of vectors z and x defines a vector parallel to the local Y-
axis, i.e., y = z x x.
l The origin of the axes is at the center (average) of the 4 joint locations (3
joint locations for a triangle).
Figure 8-4: STAAD plate element orientation for both Quatdrilateral and Triangular elements
User Manual — 411

The sign convention of output force and moment resultants is illustrated in
Section 2.6.
8.5 Output of Element Forces

ELEMENT FORCE outputs are available at the following locations:
l Center point of the element.

l All corner nodes of the element.
l At any user specified point within the element.
The following is a list of the items included in the ELEMENT STRESS output:
SQX, SQY
Shear stresses (Force/ unit len./thk.)
SX, SY, SXY
Membrane stresses (Force/unit len./thk)
MX, MY, MXY
Bending moments per unit width (Moment/unit len.)
SMAX, SMIN
Principal stresses (Force/unit area)
TMAX
Maximum shear stress (Force/unit area)
ANGLE
Orientation of the principal plane (Degrees)
VONT, VONB
Von Mises stress, where
VM = 0.707 (SMAX − SMIN)2 + SMAX 2 + SMIN 2
TRESCAT, TRESCAB
Tresca stress, where
 SMAX − SMIN 
 
TRESCA = MAX  SMAX 
 SMIN 
 
8.5.1 Notes
l All element stress output is in the local coordinate system. The direction
and sense of the element stresses are explained in Section 2.6.
l To obtain element stresses at a specified point within the element, the
user must provide the coordinate system for the element. Note that the

origin of the local coordinate system coincides with the center node of the
element.
l Principal stresses (SMAX & SMIN), the maximum shear stress (TMAX), the
orientation of the principal plane (ANGLE), the Von Mises stress (VONT &
VONB), and the Tresca stress (TRESCAT & TRESCAB) are also printed for
the top and bottom surfaces of the elements. The top and the bottom sur-
faces are determined on the basis of the direction of the local Z-axis.
8.6 Sign Convention of Element Forces

Figure 8-5: General sign conventions of element forces
User Manual — 413

Figure 8-6: Bending moments Mx and My
Mx is the Bending moment on the local x face. the local x-face is the face
perpendicular to the local x-axis.
My is the Bending moment on the local y face. the local y-face is the face
perpendicular to the local y-axis.
Figure 8-7: Stress caused by M
x

Figure 8-8: Stress caused by M

y
Figure 8-9: Stress caused by Torsion (M )

z
Figure 8-10: Membrane stresses S and S

x y
User Manual — 415

Figure 8-11: In plane shear stresses S and S
xy yx
Figure 8-12: Out-of plane shear stresses SQ and SQ

x y
8.7 STAAD Foundation Program Theory

STAAD Foundation performs structural design of foundations in accordance
with one of the following codes, based on selection:
l ACI 318-05
l IS 456-2000
l BS 8110-97
l AS3600 – 2001
l CSA A23.3.-04
The available foundation types are:
l isolated spread footing

l pile cap
l strip footing

l mat foundation
l vertical vessel octagonal foundation on soil
l vertical vessel octagonal soil on piles
l vertical vessel square footing on soil
l vertical vessel square footing on piles
l stacked/single heat exchanger combined footing
l stacked/single heat exchanger isolated footing
l stacked/single heat exchanger strap beam footing
l guyed tower foundation
l drilled pier foundation
l ribbed beam foundation.
These footings are further explained in following topics in help file.
8.8 Isolated (Spread) Footing Theory

The program uses the following criteria:
l Soil bearing capacity

l Shear and flexural strength of footing (no shear reinforcing assumed)
1. Determine footing plan geometry based on loading and bearing resistance
of the soil.
Self weight of footing, self weight of pedestal is automatically considered
in foundation design. The final thickness of the footing is considered for
the design self weight. Soil self weight, overburden pressure, buoyancy
effect is calculated based on user input specified in design parameters.
Stress distribution under the footing is assumed to be linear. The average
corner pressure is taken as the algebraic average of the pressures at
corners 1 through 4, as labeled in the following figure. For eccentrically
loaded footings, the stresses may become tensile under part of the
foundation. In such cases the program sets stress values in uplift zones to
zero and calculates new values elsewhere for the revised equilibrium
condition.
Figure 8-13: Corner pressure locations
User Manual — 417

The program is also capable of handle biaxial moments for footings
subjected to uplift (see the following section).
The program checks the footing for sliding and overturning in both
orthogonal directions for all service load cases. Coefficient of friction is
used to calculate sliding resistance. Passive pressure resistance for
sliding will be considered in future versions.
The final plan dimensions of the footing are established iteratively from
the condition that the maximum stress should not exceed the factored
bearing resistance of the soil and foundation should be stable in sliding
and overturning.
2. Development length is checked for straight rebar. If development
criterion is not met by the footing geometry a warning message is
displayed in the calculation sheet, user can go for other detailing options
like bent bars. Future release of STAAD Foundation will take bent up
bars into consideration.
3. Calculate footing thickness based on structural capacity in shear and
bending.
Structural design of the footing consists of the following:
l Punching shear check, in accordance with ACI 318 Section 11.12.2 (for
US Job).
l One-way shear (beam action), in accordance with ACI 318 Section 11.1
through 11.5 (for US Job), at a distance of d from the face of the ped-
estal, in both orthogonal directions. The critical plane is assumed to
extend over the entire width/length of the footing.
l Bending, in accordance with Sections 15.4.2 and 10.3.4 (for US code),
with the critical planes located at both orthogonal faces of the ped-
estal and extending across the full width/length of the footing.

l Design output displays applicable code sections used for foundation

design for all codes.
l Eccentricity in both direction (X & Z, +ve as well as – ve) is
considered for isolated footing.
l If the footing thickness is revised at any step while the concrete
checks are being performed, the program recalculates service checks
(Soil Bearing and Stability checks) with the revised thickness.
8.8.1 Biaxial Moment Distribution

The program uses Finite Differential Method to calculate resultant eccentricity
and calculates soil pressure based on:
P 6ex 6e y 
± ±
A  
1
Lx Ly 
The program results are verified against Biaxial moment (including loss of
contact) with ASCE research paper Bearing Pressures for Rectangular Footings
with Biaxial Uplift
8.8.2 Punching Shear

The tributary area used for punching shear is taken a distance of d/2 from the
pedestal (refer to the following figure). The critical section comprises four
straight-line segments, parallel to the corresponding sides of the pedestal.
When expressed in equation form, this is:
Length of Footing * Width of Footing – ( Length of Column + effective depth)
* ( Width of Column + effective depth)
Figure 8-14: Critical section for punching shear
User Manual — 419

8.8.3 Isolated Footing Design per AS 3600
2001
STAAD Foundation can design Isolated & combined footing comparable to
Australian Code.
Service Load
Service design simply means whether the loading transferred to bottom soil
from footing would be done properly uniformly & safely.
In Isolated footing service loads are used for check against bearing capacity/
uplift/sliding & overturning. For combined footing service loads would be
used for resistance against bearing capacity/overturning.
Program can automatically check whether any arrangement is appropriate or
not for a particular type of loading. Program does the check for all load cases
and reports for the critical case (corresponding to the type of check)
After the design passes for service design (for all service load cases) program
proceeds towards the design check for ultimate design (with factored load
cases)
Factored Load
Factored design signifies whether the footing itself is capable to withstand the
load safely and transfer it to bottom soil.

Necessary checks are check against bending moment/ shear/punching.
Bending Moment
Per Cl. 8.1.2.2:
γ = 0.85 - 0.007 (fc - 28)
Where:
0.85 ≥ γ ≥ 0.65
ku = 0.34·γ·(1 - 0.2γ) ≤ 0.4
ku,max taken per Cl.8.1.3
R u ,max = 0.85fcγk u 1 − ( γk u
2 )
φmoment = 0.8, Strength reduction factor per Cl. 2.3 and Table 2.3
MRx = φmomentRu,max bw d2
The bending moment demand due to applied loads is then compared to the
moment resistance. If demand exceeds the resistance, then the depth is
increased and the process is repeated. Otherwise, the section is deemed
adequate for bending in the particular direction.
Development Length of Main bars

Checked per Cl. 13.1.2 in both longitudinal and transverse directions:
k 1k 2fyA b
L d , reqd = ≥ 25k 1d b
(2a + d b) fc
Where:
k1 = 1.25 if d > 300 mm, = 1 otherwise.
k2 = 1.7 (for bars and slabs)
Ab = area of bar
a = clear cover
The code required development length is compared to the available
development length:
b w − bc
L d , available = −a
2
Where:
User Manual — 421

bw = footing dimension
bc = column dimension
Reinforcement Calculations
Calculated Cl. 8.1.5 and 6.2.1:
Calculate the neutral axis to depth ratio, Kr, for actual bending moment:
4 Mu
a= ≤1
1.7f cb w d 2
If a > 1, then the section depth is increase and the process is repeated.
Required reinforcement ratio per Cl. 7.2.1, 7.3.1, 7.6.8.3, and Table 2.3:
Ast = ρ bw d
Where:
0.85fc  
ρ= 1 − 1 − a
ϕ e inffy
 
φreinf. = Strength reduction factor = 0.8 for L, 1.0 for N

fy = Design strength of steel
Minimum steel per Cl. 9.1.1.c:
Ast = 0.002 bw d
Maximum steel spacing is determined per Cl. 9.4.1b and is taken equal to the
minimum of 300 mm, 2x the total depth, or a user-defined maximum spacing.
One-way Shear
Shear Force is calculated at a distance d from the face of the column.
For each direction Shear Force is calculated at a distance, d, from both left &
right face of column and checked which one is greater. So for each direction
one critical shear is available now.
V
τv =
b wd
Where:
V = shear force
bw = width
d = effective depth

The shear resistance for one-way action is given by:

1/ 3
 As f 
τ c = ϕshearβ1β 2β 3 c 
 wd 
Where:
φshear = Strength reduction factor = 0.7
(
β1 = 1.1 1.6 −
d
1, 000 ) ≥ 1.1
β2 = 1
β3 = dispersion factor = 1
Punch Shear
Punching Shear Force is calculated at a distance, d/2, from all face of the
column.
Section design process is code dependent. Therefore while using AS-3600-
2001 it is necessary to use relevant equations. The use of equations with the
help of AS-3600- 2001 is discussed below:
V
τv =
d vb 0
Where:
V = punching shear
b0 = perimeter of failure line at the critical distance, d/2, away from
the face of the column = 2(bc + wc + 2·d)
The shear resistance for punching shear is given by:

 1
 ϕshear0.34 fc when 2 ≤ βh ≤ 2

τc = 
 ϕshear0.171 + 2  0.85fc otherwise
  βh 
Where:
φshear = Strength reduction factor = 0.7
βh = column length divided by column width (aspect ratio in plan)
8.9 Pile Cap Theory

The program produces the following design output:
User Manual — 423

Required pile quantity and layout to satisfy loading applied to the footing and
self weight of pile, based on bearing, uplift and lateral pile capacity. Moments
are also being considered for lateral loads applied at top of pile cap. Moment
arm used in case of lateral loads is (Pedestal height + Pile cap thickness). Pile
reactions are calculated based on Bolt Theory.
Geometry of the pile cap based on shear and bending strength requirements at
critical sections of the footing.
1. Pile Arrangement
The user provides the following pile properties: capacity (bearing, uplift,
and lateral), diameter, spacing, and edge distance. Based on these
parameters, the program determines the required pile configuration as
well as plan dimensions of the footing from the condition, that the force,
along with the self weight of pilecap, transferred to any pile should not
exceed its capacity. For a general case of vertical and horizontal forces,
and bending moments acting on the cap, that stipulation is equivalent to
satisfying the following two equations:
Hpile ≥ Happl / N
Vappl M x , applR y M y , applR x
Vpile ≥ + +
N I xg I yg
Where:
Hpile = Single pile horizontal capacity
Vpile = Single pile vertical capacity
Happl = Total horizontal load applied
Vappl = Total vertical load applied
N = Total number of piles in footing
Mx,appl = Applied bending moment about X-axis
My,appl = Applied bending moment about Y-axis
Rx = Distance from Y-axis to the farthest pile
Ry = Distance from X-axis to the farthest pile
Ixg = pile group moment of inertia about X-axis
Iyg = pile group moment of inertia about Y-axis
Note: X and Y-axes above are centroidal axes of the pile group, Ixg
and Iyg are calculated treating each pile as a unit, and are equal
Σ(1*yi2) and Σ(1*xi2), respectively.

The program includes a library of possible pile layouts for quantities

from 2 to 25 piles. Based on the user input, the program recommends the
most economical (least number of piles) layout. The user may select any
other layout/quantity if desired, however. In addition, changing the
coordinates of individual piles may modify the selected pile layout.
Alternatively, the user may input the entire configuration by hand.
The layout recommended by the program is guaranteed to satisfy the
load/capacity ratio for all piles. Should the user-modified or manually
input layouts result in pile overstressing, the program will flag this
deficiency in the design output.
2. Design of Pile Cap
Proportioning of the pile cap involves satisfying the shear (one and two
way) and bending requirements at applicable critical sections, in
accordance with Chapter 15 of ACI 318-02 (for US job).
One way shear is checked in two areas:
l At outer piles, with the critical section located at a min. distance d
from the face of a corner pile or faces of a pile group along the edge
of the footing,
l At the distance d from two orthogonal faces of the pedestal.
The critical shear plane is assumed along a shortest straight line

connecting free edges of the footing. The design is then performed for the
total pile reaction force on one side of the shear plane, in accordance with
Sections 11.1 through 11.5.
Two way shear is checked in three areas:
l At outer piles, with the critical section located at a min. distance d/2
from the face of a corner pile or faces of a pile group along the edge
of the footing. The critical plane is assumed to be positioned along a
straight and curved line, so that the total section length is minimized.
l At the distance d/2 around the pedestal. The section comprises four
straight-line segments, parallel to corresponding sides of the column.
l At the distance d/2 around a pile.
The design is performed for the total pile reaction force acting within the
perimeter of the critical section, in accordance with ACI 318 Sections
11.12.2 through 11.12.6 (for US job).
Development length is checked for straight rebar. If development
criterion is not met by the footing geometry a warning message is
User Manual — 425

displayed in the calculation sheet, user can go for other detailing options
like bent bars.
Flexure is checked for critical planes located at both faces of the
pedestal. The bending moment is calculated as an aggregate of moments
due to pile reactions on one side of the plane.
Determination of an individual pile contribution to the forces at a
critical section is based on whether the pile is outside this section (full
reaction value assumed), inside the section (reaction ignored), or at an
intermediate location (partial reaction assumed), as per Section
15.5.4(for US job).
Pilecap design through IS Code
l Three Pile Combination
Design method in IS code is not similar with other combinations.
The design philosophy followed in STAAD Foundation is explained
below-
Pile cap module is following rigid method.
Pile Reaction calculation is done using Bolt Theory. For
combinations other than 2/3 pile, Moment is calculated at column
face in both direction (Considering each pile reaction and pile
location. If any pile area is intersected by section line taken for
moment calculation, partial reaction of the respective pile is
considered). Same thing is done for shear but at a dist of d-
effective from column face.
For three piles, although pile reactions calculation are done using
bolt theory but shear force & bending moment calculations are
slightly different for IS code. Instead of considering whole
triangular slab, two beams are considered; one beam extends from
one pile to another pile and another beam extends from third pile

to center of first beam. In plan these beams make T shape. These

beams are named as BASE BEAM & ALTERNATE BEAM.
l Two Pile Combination

Designed only for axial load and Moment along longitudinal
direction; program does not consider transverse moment in design.
Two Pile reactions are calculated from Rivet theory, pilecap design
is done as a beam (shear force and bending moment along
longitudinal direction)
Only minimum steel is provided in transverse direction.
Design output displays applicable code sections used for foundation
8.10 Mat (Raft) Foundation Theory

Analysis and design of mats is based on finite element method (FEM)
coupled8.10 Mat (Raft) Foundation Theory with slab-on-elastic-subgrade
principles. First, you will create a finite element model of the proposed mat
foundation. This may be accomplished in many ways:
Importing a STAAD.Pro file of the superstructure, thus providing reference
points for initial mat set-up and load information, and defining boundaries of
User Manual — 427

the mat, or by creating the foundation slab from scratch and inputting loading
information manually or copy-pasting coordinates from MS Excel.
Any shape of mat (raft) can be modeled in STAAD Foundation. Various
methods to create mat (raft) model are explained in Quick Tour and STAAD
Foundation graphical environment. Any shape of hole or control region can be
added to the mat (raft boundary).
STAAD Foundation follows physical modeling concept for mesh generation. By
which you only have to specify the boundary for mat (raft) and program will
generate plate mesh based on boundary geometry, loading, pile locations etc.
Program will also convert finite elements analysis results to global axis
irrespective of plate orientations.
Modeling of foundation involves choosing meshing meshing type
(quadrilateral, triangular or mixed), Internal Nodes Spacing Factor,
Optimization Level.
As with any FEM project, the denser the grid (smaller elements), the more
precise results will be obtained. In addition to the slab, the raft may include a
number of beams between the column locations. Since the beams would
normally be part of the foundation, the slab polygonal meshing algorithm
accounts for the presence of the beam and ensures that they become
continuously integrated with the slab. New nodes are purposely created on the
centerline of the beam and the beam is split between those points into a
number of segments.
Meshing setup can be further refined using Optimization Level and Internal
Nodes Spacing Factor. Higher optimization level implies program will try to
precise the mesh with higher number of iterations. For larger mats higher
optimization level will lead to substantially large computer processing time.
Internal Nodes Spacing Factor is inversely proportional to node density inside
the mesh.
Once the mat is defined and all material/soil properties are input, the
program may proceed with the analysis of the structure. It is performed by
the state-of-the-art STAAD Analysis Engine. Realistic soil response is achieved
by employing non-linear (compression only) spring supports to model
subgrade reactions. Pile reactions, if present, are proportional to linear
displacements of the supported node and include both compression and
tension (uplift).
Using control regions different soil properties can be assigned a single mat
model. Also mat can be partially resting on soil and pile supports.

The program calculates internal forces and deflections for all slab and beam
elements of the foundation. This information is then used in the design stage of
the program to:
Establish the required top and bottom flexural reinforcing in two orthogonal
directions, check punching shear capacity at column locations.
The flexural design is done in accordance with ACI 318 Chapter 10 of the Code
(for US jobs). The reinforcement areas are computed for a notional band one
unit of length wide.
The program allows the designer, as an option, to use the Wood-Armer
equations for reinforcement calculations, as follows:
Mx, My, and Mxy are fetched or calculated, as described above. They are used
to compute the values of design moments, Mxd and Myd.
For top reinforcement, the program computes:
Mx1 = Mx + abs(Mxy)
My1 = My + abs(Mxy)
Mx2 = Mx + abs(Mxy2 / My)
My2 = My + abs(Mxy2 / Mx)
If both Mx1 and My1 are positive, Mxd = Mx1 and Myd = My1.
If both Mx1 and My1 are negative, Mxd = 0 and Myd = 0.
If Mx1 is negative and My1 positive, Mxd = 0 and Myd = My2.
If My1 is negative and Mx1 positive, Mxd = Mx2 and Myd = 0.
For bottom reinforcement:
Mx1 = Mx - abs(Mxy)
My1 = My - abs(Mxy)
Mx2 = Mx - abs(Mxy2 / My)
My2 = My - abs(Mxy2 / Mx)
If both Mx1 and My1 are positive, Mxd = 0 and Myd = 0.
If both Mx1 and My1 are negative, Mxd = Mx1 and Myd = My1.
If Mx1 is negative and My1 positive, Mxd = Mx2 and Myd = 0.
If My1 is negative and Mx1 positive, Mxd = 0 and Myd = My2.
Mxd and Myd are then used in lieu of Mx and My for calculations of the
required reinforcing. Use of the modified bending moments brings about more
accurate distribution of the reinforcing, better matching critical areas of the
slab.
User Manual — 429

8.10.1 Notes
Flexural design notes (for US jobs):
Reinforcement calculations for slab panels are based on Chapter 10
of ACI 318-02. The minimum-reinforcing ratio complies with the
limits prescribed for shrinkage and temperature reinforcement in
Section 7.12. Maximum spacing of rebar is 18 in. The maximum
reinforcing ratio corresponds to the net tensile strain at nominal
strength equal to 0.004 (Clause 10.3.5). Strength reduction factor is
established in accordance with Section 9.3.2.
Punching shear design notes (for US jobs):
Design for two-way shear is carried out in accordance with Section
11.12. The unbalanced moment transfer by eccentricity of shear is
based on Clause 11.12.6. Shear strength of concrete is based on
Clause 11.12.2.1. Strength reduction factor used is 0.75, in
accordance with Section 9.3.2.
The program computes shear stress values at four corners of the
rectangular critical section located at the distance of d/2 from
edges of a column. The calculations include the unbalanced moment
transfer effect, if applicable, in accordance with 11.12.6.2.
Design output displays applicable code sections used for foundation
As program supports any shape for mat foundation design, it does
not perform a check for sliding and overturning. However, the
program does provide contact area summary with which the
overturning stability of the mat can be determined. For sliding
resistance, the program provides a reaction summary in lateral
directions which can be used to check sliding.
8.11 Combined (Strip) Footing Theory

The program uses the following criteria:
l Soil bearing capacity,

l Shear and flexural strength of footing (no shear reinforcing assumed),
l Compressive and flexural strength of pedestal

8.11.1 Procedure for Design

1. Determine footing plan geometry based on loading, self weight of the
footing, weight of soil on top of footing, buoyant forces based on water
level, and bearing resistance of the soil.
The stress distribution under the footing is assumed to be linear. For
eccentrically loaded footings, the stresses may become tensile under part
of the foundation. In such cases, the program sets stress values in uplift
zones to zero and calculates new values elsewhere for the revised
equilibrium condition. Stability checks in both orthogonal directions are
performed. The final plan dimensions of the footing are established
iteratively from the condition that the maximum stress should not exceed
the factored bearing resistance of the soil.
2. Development length is checked for straight rebar. If development criterion
is not met by the footing geometry a warning message is displayed in the
calculation sheet, user can go for other detailing options like bent bars.
Calculate footing thickness based on structural capacity in shear and bending.
8.11.2 Capacity Checks

Structural design of the footing consists of the following:
l Punching shear check, in accordance with ACI 318 Section 11.12.2 (for US
jobs), at a distance of d/2 from the pedestal. The critical section comprises
four straight-line segments, parallel to the corresponding sides of the ped-
estal.
l One-way shear (beam action), in accordance with Sections 11.1 through 11.5,
at a distance of d from the face of the pedestal, in both orthogonal direc-
tions. The critical plane is assumed to extend over the entire width/length
of the footing.
l Bending, in accordance with ACI 318 Sections 15.4.2 and 10.3.4 (for US jobs),
with the critical planes located at both orthogonal faces of the pedestal and
extending across the full width/length of the footing.
Design output displays applicable code sections used for foundation design for
all codes.
8.12 Driller Pier Theory (Axial Load Analysis)

The following methods are used by the program to determine the axial capacity
of a drilled pier.
User Manual — 431

8.12.1 8.12.1 API Method
API method is based on American Petroleum Industry Guideline RP 2A-WSD.
This method supports Sand, Sand-Silt, Silt, Gravel and clayey soil. Axial
capacity of drilled pier is calculated based on API eq 6.4.1-1.
Qd = Qf + Qp
Where:
Qf = skin friction resistance,lb (kN)
Qp = total end bearing, lb (kN)
Skin Friction Resistance Calculation

For cohesive soils, skin friction is calculated based on API eq 6.4.2-1
f=αc
Where:
α = a dimensionless factor
c = undrained shear strength of the soil at the point in question
For cohesionless soils, skin friction is calculated based on API eq 6.4.3-1
f = K po tan(δ)
Where:
K=coefficient of lateral earth pressure (ratio of horizontal to
vertical normal effective stress)
po =effective overburden pressure lb/ft 2 (kPa)at the point in
question
End Bearing Resistance Calculation

End bearing is calculated from geometry of pier.
Qp=q Ap
Where:
q = unit end bearing capacity,lb/(ft 2 )(kPa)
Ap = gross end area of pier, ft 2 (m2)

For cohesive soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on API eq
6.4.2-3
q=9c
Where:
c = undrained shear strength of the soil at the point in question
For cohesionless soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on API eq
6.4.3-2
q = po Nq
Where:
po =effective overburden pressure lb/ft 2 (kPa)at the point in
question
Nq = dimensionless bearing capacity factor
Effect of water table

The water table depth is used to calculate buoyant forces on the pier. Buoyant
forces are deducted from total axial capacity of the pier
Self weight of the pier and factors of safety

Pier self weight is taken into consideration while calculating the axial capacity.
The end bearing safety factor is applied to tip resistance and skin friction
safety factor is applied to side resistance. Total axial capacity is calculated as,
Total Axial Capacity = (End bearing resistance – Pier self weight)/(End bearing
Safety factor) + (Skin friction resistance – Buoyant force )/(Skin Friction
Safety factor)
The program also offers % of skin friction and end bearing contributing to axial
capacity through user input.
8.12.2 8.12.2 FHWA Method

FHWA method is based on Federal Highway Administration publication
FHWA-IF-99-025. Methodology for calculating axial capacity runs same as API
method mentioned above.
Axial capacity of drilled pier is calculated based on FHWA-IF-99-025 Eq 1.1
RT= RB+ RS
Where:
User Manual — 433

RT= total calculated or nominal ultimate axial resistance of the
drilled shaft
RB= nominal ultimate base resistance
RS= nominal ultimate side resistance
An allowable load is the calculated as:
RA= RT/F
Where:
RA= allowable resistance
F = global factor of safety
Skin Friction Resistance Calculation

For cohesive soils, skin friction is calculated based on FHWA-IF-99-025 Eq
11.16
f = α* su
Where:
α = dimensionless correlation coefficient
su= design value for undrained shear strength for the layer being
considered
For cohesionless soils, skin friction is calculated based on FHWA-IF-99-025
Eq 11.17
f= βi* σvi
Where:
βi=dimensionless correlation factor between vertical effective

stress and maximum stress limit
σvi=vertical effective stress at the middle of Layer i
End bearing Resistance Calculation

RB = qmax Ap
Where:
qmax= unit end bearing capacity, lb/(ft 2 )(kPa)

Ap = gross end area of pier, ft 2 (m2)

For cohesive soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on FHWA-IF-
99-025 Eq 11.1, 11.2 &11.3
q=9 su
Where:
su= design value for undrained shear strength for the layer being
considered
For cohesionless soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on FHWA-
IF-99-025 Eq 11.4
q=57.5NSPT
Where:
NSPT = design value for SPT blow counts
8.12.3 8.12.3 Vesic Method

The Vesic method is a slight modification of FHWA method. Skin friction
calculation for Vesic method is same as that of FHWA method.
End bearing Resistance Calculation

RB=qmax Ap
Where:
qmax=unit end bearing capacity,lb/(ft 2 )(kPa)

Ap = gross end area of pier,ft 2 (m2)
For cohesive soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on
q = Fr Ncp*su
Where:
su = design value for undrained shear strength for the layer being
considered
Nqp = cohesion factor
Fr = Reese and O'Neill factor
For cohesionless soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on:
User Manual — 435

q = po* Nqp
Where:
po = effective overburden pressure lb/ft 2 (kPa) at the point in
question
Nqp = surcharge factor
8.13 Pedestal Theory

STAAD Foundation 5.2 or later can design pedestals for isolated footings
complying with US, British and Indian code.
Pedestal design is performed same as a design of short column. STAAD
Foundation can design pedestal subjected with:
l Axial Load only

l Axial Load & Uni-axial bending
l Axial Load & Bi-axial bending
STAAD Foundation follows limit state method for section design.
8.13.1 Indian Code Pedestal Design

Theory
Pedestal design for the Indian code is based on IS 465 – 2000 and SP: 16.
STAAD Foundation checks minimum area of reinforcement provided per IS
456 -2000 Section 26.5.3.1 (Clause 26.5.3.1.a to Clause 26.5.3.1.h). Program
checks minimum bar size for longitudinal and main reinforcement. Pedestal
spacing requirements are also checked per Indian code.
Minimum eccentricity subjected on pedestal is considered per IS 456 – 2000.
For Axial Load only pedestal design done per IS 456 – 2000 Section 39. For
uni-axial and bi-axial moments, pedestal design follows SP16.
8.13.2 British Code Pedestal Design

Theory
Pedestal design for the British code is based on per BS 8110-1 Section 3.
STAAD Foundation checks minimum area of reinforcement provided per BS
81100-1 Section 3. Program checks minimum bar size for longitudinal and
main reinforcement. Pedestal spacing requirements are also checked per
British code.

Minimum eccentricity subjected on pedestal is considered per BS 8110-1

Section 3.8.2.4.
For axial load only, uni-axial and bi-axial moments, pedestal design follows BS
8110-1 Section 3.
8.14 Calculation of Loads

This section discusses some of the parametric load generation facilities in
STAAD Foundation.
8.14.1 Seismic Load Generation

Automated parametric seismic load generation facilities in STAAD Foundation.
Wind Loads per IS 875 Part 3

For plant structures designed under Indian codes, the program calculates the
wind load per IS 875 Part 3 Wind Load on Buildings and Structures, Fourth
Revision (2002). A static wind pressure is applied to the structure by the
program using the following general procedure.
1. Calculate Basic Wind Speed, V , based on mapped values (Figure 1 in Sec-

b
tion 5) or the table supplied in Appendix A of IS 875.
2. Calculate Probability Factor (risk coefficient), k , from Table 1 in Section 5
1
of IS 875.
3. Calculate the k Factor (Table 2 in IS 875) based on structure height and
2
terrain category. Separate k2 values are determined at different height
intervals for vertical vessels as well as for each horizontal vessel in a
stacked configuration.
4. Calculate the Topography Factor, k per Appendix C in IS 875.
3
5. Calculate the Design Wind speed for each height considered (IS 875,
Clause 5.3) as:
Vz = Vb k 1k 2k 3
Note: The cyclonic factor, k4 , is typically not significant for

foundations and is assumed as 1.0 by the program. However, the Cf
value can be multiplied by the desired k4 value to effectively account
for structures in cyclonic regions.
6. Calculate the wind pressure for each height considered (IS 875, Clause
5.4) as:
User Manual — 437

pz = 0.6V z2
7. Calculate the design wind pressure for each height as:

pd = K aK d K cpz
Where:
Kd = wind directionality factor, as determined in Cl. 5.4.1.
Ka = area averaging factor, as determined in Cl. 5.4.2.
Kc = combination factor, taken from Table 19 in Section 6.
8. For each height, the exposure area, A, is consider. This area is calculated
differently for vertical and horizontal vessels.
Figure 8-15: Exposure areas for vertical and horizontal vessels
9. Calculate Force coefficient, C , which is considered for structures without

f

openings.
Note: For vertical vessel, the equipment is symmetric and thus the
wind load need only be evaluated from only one direction. Therefore,
only one set of Cf is calculated. For a horizontal vessel, the wind is
considered from both the longitudinal (x) and transverse (z)
directions. So, two sets of Cfn are calculated.
10. Calculate the Wind force, F , from Clause 6.3.3.2 of IS 875 for each wind
n
height considered as:
Fn = Cfn × pd × K × A
Where K = 1 for horizontal and vertical vessels.
8.14.2 Wind Load Generation

Automated parametric wind load generation facilities in STAAD Foundation.
Seismic Loads per IS 1893 P1 - 2002

For plant structures designed under Indian codes, the program calculates the
seismic load per IS 1893 Part 1 Criteria for Earthquake Resistant Design of
Structures, Part 1: General Provisions and Buildings, Fifth Revision (2002). A
static, seismic base shear is calculated using the following general procedure
and applied to top of the foundation.
1. Calculate Zone factor Z on the basis of 6.4.2 & Annex E or the mapped
value.
This can be directly specified or selected from a list of Indian cities.
2. Calculate Importance factor I on the basis of 6.4.2 & Table 6
3. Calculate Response Reduction factor R on the basis of 6.4.2 & Table 7
4. Calculate Sa/G from 6.4.2 & 6.4.5.
This can be directly specified or can be calculated by the program based
on code parameters.
5. Calculate Design Horizontal Seismic Coefficient Ah (Clause 6.4.2)
Z × I ×S a
Ah =
2R × g
6. Calculate of building weight, W.
User Manual — 439

Two conditions are considered by the program for each vessel: a) empty
and b) operating. For vertical vessels,
7. Calculate Design Seismic Base Shear Vb (Clause 7.5.3)
Vb = Ah × W
Figure 8-16: Base shears for vertical and horizontal vessels

8.15 Crack Width Calculation

8.15.1 Indian or British Codes
IS 456 - 2000 Annex F and BS 8110 Part II, Clause 3.8 include the same
method for determining the nominal crack width for design. This procedure is
based on work by Andrew Beeby. The crack width determined by this method
represents a best-fit for experimental data where the stress in the tension steel
is limited to 0.8x Fy.
The following assumptions are made for this method:
l Sm = 1.5 acr
l W is a funciton of S and ε
mean m m
l Wmax = 2x Wmean
The following procedure is then used by the program to evaluate the crack
width for design:
1. Calculate the modular ration, m as:
m = Ec/Es
Where:
Es = 20,000 N/mm2 (IS 456 - 2000, Annex F)
Ec = 5,000·√(fc) (Cl. 6.2.3.1 of IS 456 - 2000)
2. Calculate the depth of the neutral axis, x, per the limit state method (IS
456 - 2000 Annex G and BS 8110 Part I Cl. 3.4.4.4)
3. Calculate the moment of inertia of the equivalent section, I .
eff
4. Calculate the effective modulus of elasticity of concrete, E .
eff
Ec
Eeff =
1+c
Where:
c = safety factor taken as 1.0.
5. Calculate the average steel strain at the depth considered (e.g., the cen-
terline of rebar), ε , based on the absolute value of the critical bending
1
moment.
6. Calculate the average strain, ε , at the point of interest as:
m
b (h − x )(a 1 − x )
ϵ m = ϵ1 −
3EsA st(d − x )
User Manual — 441

7. Calculate Crack Width W_cr from IS 456 -20000 BS 8110 Part II
3a crϵ m
Wcr = 2(a cr − C min)
1+
h −x
Where:
acr = distance from the point of interest to the surface of the
nearest longitudinal bar
h = total depth of the section
Cmin = clear cover to longitudinal steel
8. Check whether the crack width value is safe or not depending upon the
maximum allowed range defined by codes (IS 456 2000 & BS 8110 Part
II)
8.16 Strap Footing Design

A strap footing between two block foundations can be design in the general
foundation design mode and in the plant foundation mode, for horizontal
vessel foundations. The strap footing is a strap beam (i.e., grade beam) which
connects two otherwise isolated footings.
When a strap footing is present between two footings, any moment which is
the result of loads acting in the longitudinal direction of the beam are then
resisted by the beam. The beam's size and reinforcement is calculated
accordingly to resist this moment. For example, for forces acting parallel to
the longitudinal axis of the beam, the resulting moment, Mz, is considered to
be resisted by the strap beam alone.
If two footings at the end nodes of the strap beam are designating to be
Identical Footings on the Footing Geometry page, then both two footing
will both be designed for the same critical condition occurring in either
footing.
8.17 Tank Foundation Design

STAAD Foundation offers ringwall foundation design for self-anchored, non-
refrigerated, above ground liquid storage tanks.
In most cases, a ring wall foundation is preferable for tanks more than 20 feet
in diameter. A ringwall is also provided when significant soil or differential
settlement is anticipated.

Ringwall size should be appropriately selected so that soil the bearing below
ringwall equals the soil pressure under the confined earth at the same depth as
the bottom of the ringwall. The program designs ringwall foundations per the
following codes/guidelines:
l API650- Appendix E
l PIP STE03020
l ACI 318, ASCE 7-05 for US Code design
l IS 456, IS 875 III for Indian Code design
For ringwall minimum dimensions, refer to Section 5 from PIP STE03020
guideline.
8.17.1 Load Generation

For US code, Wind load is generated based on ASCE7-05
For IS code, Wind load is generated based on IS 875 III
Seismic load for both US and IS code is generated based on API650 Appendix
E. Convective and impulsive portion of load is calculated separately and then
combined using API 650 E.6.1.5
8.17.2 Design Philosophy

1. First, the tank stability is checked based on J factor specified in API 650.
Note: If the tank is determined to be unstable, you may need to

design the tank as mechanically anchored tank, which is not covered in
STAAD Foundation.
2. Internal Soil bearing is checked for soil inside ringwall.
User Manual — 443

3. Ringwall soil bearing is checked based on PIP STE03020 and API 650
using following diagram,

4. If tank stability checks are selected as an input, slab moment generated

based on API650 appendix E is used as disturbing force.
5. Forces for hoop steel and twist steel are calculated per PIP STE03020 and
concrete design is performed per ACI 318.
8.18 Drilled Pier Lateral Analysis Theory

STAAD Foundation performs lateral analysis of drilled pier based on a
nonlinear pile and p-y Model for soil (more conceptual information is available
from EI 02C097).
8.18.1 Nonlinear Pile

STAAD Foundation calculates nonlinear bending stiffness of pile.
Figure 8-17: Example plot of nonlinear bending stiffness of pile
8.18.2 P-Y Curve Method

The p-y curve method was suggested in 1958 by McCelland and Focht. It is a
very practical approach to deal with complex lateral resistance behavior of
different soils. Field tests using strain gauges were carried out for different soil
and based on experimental data correlation between soil parameters and
lateral response is derived.
User Manual — 445

Figure 8-18: Typical P-Y curve for clay soil type using Unified Clay Method for both cyclic
and static loading
Figure 8-19: Conceptual spring representation of soil resistance at various depths
A solution is derived by converging pile and soil nonlinearity.

Index E
Element Load Specification 410
A
End bearing Resistance 434-
ACI 318-05 416 435
American Petroleum Industry Guideline432 End Bearing Resistance 432
API RP 2A-WSD 432 ExcelML format 365
AS3600 – 2001 416
F
B
FHWA-IF-99-025 433
Biaxial Moment Distribution419 Finite Element 410
Biaxial Uplift 419 Finite Element Analysis 409
Bolt Theory 424 Finite Element Method 427
BS 8110 416, 436 forces/moments 367
BS 8110 Part II 441 foundation 367
C Foundation Toolkit 287
Clashing 64 G
Combined Footing GA Drawing 64
recreate 202 generate 202
Combined Footing Theory 430 Grouping 216
Coordinate System 411
H
CSA A23.3.-04 416
Heat Exchanger 217
current load case 197
Horizontal Vessel 217
D
I
deflection
Import 30
increase 387
From STAAD.Pro 357
Delete All 202
IS 1893 439
design 367
IS 456 - 2000 441
design factor 373
IS 465 – 2000 416, 436
design several different types367
IS 875 437
Detail Drawing 57
diagram 387 L
Live Load 107
User Manual — 447

Index: Load Case – Strip Footing Theory
Load Case R
New 95 Raft Foundation Theory 427
M recreate 202
Main Navigator 368 Reinforcement Spacing Increment32
Mat Foundation Theory 427 Rivet theory 427
Move 39 S
O Safety Factor 373
One-way shear 431 Safety Factor Table 373
Open 197 safety factors 373
Orientation 412 Safety Factors 104
Output Schedule Drawing 57
Element Force 412 serviceability 373
Element Stress 412 short example exercises 367
Output View Options 173 set 367
form Sign Convention 413
Overlap 64 Single Exchanger 239
P Skin Friction Resistance 432,
434
Pedestal Design Theory 436
Slab Design 146
BS 8110 436
Soil
IS 456-2000 436
Above Foundation 169
Pile Arrangement 424
SP- 16 436
Pile Cap Theory 423
Spreadsheet
Plane Stress 410
input 359-360
Plant Foundations 217
output 360
Plate Element 410
STAAD.Pro
Polyline 153
Import 30
Punching Shear Check 431
Stacked Exchanger 239
Punching Shear Design 430
Stress Distribution 410
Q
stress types 197
Quick Tour 367 Strip Footing Theory 430

Index: structural – Wood and Armer
structural 387
structure 387
Support 367
Deletion 202
support co-ordinates 367
supports 367
T
table 197, 373
table allowing 373
Theoretical Basis 410
Translational Repeat 44
Tresca Stress 412
types 197
U
Unit 387
Units 50
use
Safety Factor Table 373
use STAAD.foundation
design several different types367
V
Verification Manual 52
Vertical Vessel foundation 217
Vesic method 435
Von Mises stress 412
W
Wood and Armer 190
User Manual — 449

Bentley Systems, Incorporated
685 Stockton Drive, Exton, PA 19341 USA
+1 (800) 236-8539
www.bentley.com

STAAD Foundation Advanced Manual PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

STAAD Foundation Advanced Manual PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

STAAD Foundation Advanced

Restricted Rights Legends

End User License Agreements

User Manual — iii

General Program Features

Export of detailed output to Microsoft Office

l Isolated footings (US and Indian codes)

Group Horizontal Vessel Footings

Self Weight for Ultimate Loads

Australian Code Modification

l Strength reduction factor, φ, from table 2.3: one-way shear, punching

1.2.2 Exiting STAAD Foundation

l General Foundation - Open modeling of common foundation types.

1.2.4 Global and Local data

1.2.5 Document Conventions

Notes, Hints, and Warnings

Note: This is an item of general importance.

Hint: This is optional time-saving information.

Warning: This is information about actions that should not be

File Path/File Name.extension

Warning: Do not use commas or spaces to separate digits within a

l Numbers with decimal fractions are written with a period to separate

1.2.6 Using Window Panes

To float a window pane

1. Click in the window pane title bar.

Alternate method - To float a window pane

1. Right click in the window pane title bar.

To dock a window pane

1. Click in the window pane title bar.

Alternate method - To dock a window pane

1. Right click in the window pane title bar.

To close a window pane

Alternate method - To close a window pane

1. Right click in the window pane title bar.

Toggle auto hide for a docked window pane

Alternate method - Toggle auto hide for a docked window pane

1. Right click in the window pane title bar.

1.2.7 Graphical Input

Using a scrolling mouse

1.3 Application Window Layout

A. Application menu button

Opens a standard Windows file <Ctrl+N>

Opens a standard Windows file

Closes the current model file and

This will save any changes made in

Opens a Windows Save As dialog

Opens the Print dialog box, which

Opens the Print Settings dialog

Create New Project dialog box

Project type list

Offers the same controls as the Open dialog Existing tab.

Offers the same controls as the Open dialog Recent tab.

Open Project dialog box

l Thumbnails — Shows a thumbnail image of the files in the directory.

STAAD Foundation Advanced File saving dialog box

Print dialog box

l Print is selected from the Application menu, or

Note: For more information refer to the Windows documentation.

Print Preview window

Print Preview toolbar

1.3.2 Quick access toolbar

1.3.3 Ribbon toolbar

clicked. This way, most of STAAD Foundation's functionality is brought to the