Create compound sections

The current user coordinate system (UCS) determines the position of the sections' main axes (working line): the beam web runs in the Z direction of the UCS, (i.e., the 'top' of the section is in the Z direction).

To create a compound section, use the Compound sections flyout on the Beams panel of the Objects tab.

Create a compound profile

1. Select a suitable UCS.
2. On the Objects tab, Beams panel,

   Compound sections

   flyout: Click the button corresponding to the desired compound section.
3. Specify the start point of the beam system axis.
4. Specify the end point of the beam system axis.

• The compound profile is created.

The properties dialog box appears where you can modify the properties.

Customize an existing compound section

1. Select the compound profile.
2. In the properties dialog box, select the Sections tab.
3. From the Beam index drop-down list select the index of the section to modify. The selected section is displayed in red in the preview area.
4. From the Section drop-down list, select the section type and size from the list displayed by clicking the corresponding arrow.
5. If necessary, adjust the section's position:
   • Adjust the position along the X and Y axes using the Offset fields.
   • Rotate the section around its gravity center by a defined angle.
   • Optionally, the section can be mirrored.

• Once the new compound beam is created, save it with a new name for later use.

Create a new compound section

1. Select a suitable UCS.
2. On the Objects tab, Beams panel, Compound sections flyout: Click .
3. Specify the start point of the beam system axis.
4. Specify the end point of the beam system axis.
   • A generic compound beam is created. The properties dialog box appears.
5. On the Section tab, select the containing profiles and how they are arranged.

   To delete a profile:

   • From the Beam index drop-down list select the index of the section to delete. The selected section is displayed in red in the preview area.
   • Click .

   The section is deleted.

   To add a profile:

   • From the Beam index drop-down list select the index of the section after which to insert a new section. The new section is displayed in red in the preview area.
   • Click .
6. For each individual profile, select the section class, the section and the position relative to the compound system axis using a set of 2D controls.
7. Save the created profile.

Save a modified compound section for later use

1. In the properties dialog box, select the Section & Material tab.
2. From the compound beam class drop-down list, select the class in which the section is to be added.
3. Click Save as.
4. In the dialog box, enter the new section name.
5. Click OK.

• The new compound section type is listed in the Compound beam type drop-down list.

Rename a compound section

1. In the properties dialog box, select the Section & Material tab.
2. From the Compound beam type drop-down list, select the section to rename.
3. Click Rename.
4. In the dialog box, enter the new name.
5. Click OK.

• The compound section type is renamed in the Compound section type drop-down list.