Self Weight

Automatically calculate and apply member self-weight loads.

How Self Weight Works

Self weight is calculated from:

• Section area: From the assigned cross-section
• Material density: From the assigned material
• Member length: Computed from node positions

Formula: w = A × ρ × g

Where w is the distributed load (force/length), A is area, ρ is density, and g is gravity.

Enabling Self Weight

Self weight is controlled per load case:

1. Select the load case in the Load Cases panel
2. Toggle the "Self Weight" checkbox
3. Self weight loads are automatically calculated for all members

Self Weight Direction

Self weight is always applied in the negative global Y direction (downward), regardless of member orientation.

Visualization

When a load case has self weight enabled:

• A distributed load is shown on each member
• Load arrows point downward (negative Y)
• Magnitude varies based on section and material

Requirements

For self weight to be calculated, members must have:

• An assigned section (with valid area)
• An assigned material (with valid density)

Members without these assignments will not contribute self weight.

Typical Usage

Common practice is to:

1. Create a "Dead Load" load case
2. Enable self weight for this load case
3. Add any additional permanent loads to this case
4. Use this case in load combinations with appropriate factors