There are new releases available of
XFrame2D 2027.6 download release notes
XBeam2D 2027.5 download release notes
The most important new feature:
1. New Fire Resistance of Steel Structures
In our August 1 newsletter, you could already read about the new feature in XFEM4U that allows you to calculate and verify the fire resistance of steel structures. This is a much-requested enhancement that provides you with a quick and transparent understanding of your structure’s fire resistance.
We were soon asked: Is this also possible in XFrame2D and XBeam2D?
The answer is now: yes!
You can now also calculate and verify the fire resistance of steel structures in XFrame2D and XBeam2D. We’ve used the same methodology and principles as in XFEM4U.
The calculation is fully iterative. For each member, the temperature development is determined, among other factors, and changing material properties are taken into account. The software then automatically determines when the critical steel temperature is reached and what the corresponding fire resistance rating is in minutes.
You can analyze both unclad and fire-resistant clad steel sections. For the cladding, you can easily choose between profile-following or box encasement systems. In addition, an extensive library is included with the most commonly used fire-resistant materials and various coating thicknesses.
More Than Just Temperature
During a fire, a steel section continues to heat up. As the temperature rises, both the yield strength and the modulus of elasticity decrease. As a result, the load-bearing capacity changes continuously.
XFrame2d / XBeam2D calculates this process entirely iteratively. For each member, the temperature evolution over time is determined, after which the system automatically identifies when the member loses its load-bearing capacity. This point in time—expressed in minutes from the moment the fire starts—represents the member’s fire resistance.
This complete calculation is performed extremely quickly, even for large structures.
Maximum Flexibility
Not every beam needs to remain intact in a fire situation. That’s why you can easily specify which beams are allowed to fail in the event of a fire. This allows you to simulate realistic fire scenarios and assess the robustness of the structure.
No Black Box—Just Complete Transparency
As you’ve come to expect from XFEM4U, we don’t just show you the final result.
The entire calculation is transparent. You can follow it step by step:
- how the temperature of each member evolves;
- how the material properties change;
- how the critical steel temperature is determined;
- and how the fire resistance is ultimately calculated.
This allows you not only to use the results but also to verify and justify them. Transparency is central to Struct4U —including with this new functionality.
Another powerful addition to XFrame2D and XBeam2D
With just a few mouse clicks, you can now also verify the fire resistance of your steel structure. Fast, reliable, fully transparent, and integrated into the familiar environment.
Curious about how easy it is? Click here for a demo.
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