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SAP Import Export Problem SAP Import and Export $2k File Today I faced a very strange problem in CSI SAP. Have you ever faced such a problem in your structural analysis tools? Same model file was used which yielded different results under following 2 scenarios:- 1) 1-The original file was run in SAP. 2) 2- Then this file was exported in text format and imported again. Value of TIME PERIOD of both the models were different and we found out that there is about 300kN difference in Self Weight of elements. I examined both the text files in MS WORD Compare Document feature and found out that a beam having depth of 700mm has been added in new model (model based on importing the text file) on various locations other than the original one. While in the model when I showed selection only for this 700deep concrete beam I found it to be everywhere in the model. I will explain the solution of the problem in next lines. Actually the original model exported from ETABS to SAP so I cannot confirm whether all this discussion holds good too for the models originally created in SAP or not? Actually there were some NULL lines (created originally in ETABS) in the model. When you export the model as a text file and import it back it does not recognize the NULL lines but rather it applies those elements the first available section which in my case was 700mm deep concrete beam. So that’s why I got 300kN more self weight in the model due to these beams. So next time you export your model to SAP and send its text file for review to another person or firm, be informed that it will give them wrong results. So always send them SDB file.

I haven't done something ditto to what you are explaining, but I would like future information on this being shared, so that, may be, we can develop something ? Thanks.

No idea about Pakistan but OHSA is highly valued in Canada. You can be an HSE Engineer and they mostly call shots on design related issues where saftey is a concern. From my memory, I can recall that there is a construction firm in Islamabad called "Kestral" where I came across an HSE Engineer(so companies who hire HSE Engineers would value this course). It is very likely that OHSA related jobs are in good number in Middle East.

Here is the discussion. http://www.sepakistan.com/topic/1307-etabs-load-combinations/ Thanks.

this is really a controversial question! based on what i have been doing uptill now here is the summary! if you have very hard rock support use fixed if the soil is weak and fear of liquification use pinned remember its always conservative to use pin support for column design as all the moment will be redistributed to column but for foundation design if you make the support fixed you have to design it for moment just a rough rule:- for isolated foundations use pin for mat or combined footings use fixed