SPREADSHEET SOLUTIONS FOR STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

BoltGroup computes the shear capacity of eccentrically loaded bolted connections using the LRFD instantaneous center of rotation method. It is a practical tool for the design of gusset plates and plate girder bolted splices, with analysis results verified against AISC tables. The spreadsheet delivers a clear design summary, detailed results, and supporting theory with formulas for reference.

The program accommodates irregular bolt patterns and can automatically generate both rectangular and circular layouts. It calculates the shear strength of individual bolts as well as the overall shear capacity of a bolt group in accordance with the AISC Manual, 16th Edition. Multiple in-plane forces and torque can be applied simultaneously, and the software supports both SI and US customary units, making it versatile for a wide range of design applications.

1. Enable macros

In modern Excel, macro security is managed through the Trust Center. To enable macros:

Step 1: Go to the File tab -> Options.

Step 2: Select Trust Center, then click Trust Center Settings.

Step 3: Choose Macro Settings.

Step 4: Select Disable all macros with notification (recommended). This allows you to enable macros when opening Boltgroup without lowering security globally.

Step 5: Click OK to save.

2. Install the Solver add-in

Activate the Solver add-in to make the Solver command available under the Data tab:

Step 1: Go to the File tab -> Options.

Step 2: Select Add-ins.

Step 3: In the Manage dropdown at the bottom, choose Excel Add-ins and click Go.

Step 4: Check the box next to Solver Add-in and click OK.

Step 5: Confirm the Solver command appears under the Data tab in the Analysis group.

3. Fix Solver VBA Reference Errors

If you receive an Excel warning after clicking Calculate from the Boltgroup menu, the Solver VBA automation library may not be referenced correctly. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the VBA editor by pressing ALT + F11.

Step 2: In the Project Explorer (usually on the left), review the list of open workbooks and add-ins. If SOLVER.XLAM is listed, the issue lies elsewhere. If it is not listed, the Solver reference is invalid.

Step 3: In the Project Explorer, select your Boltgroup workbook. Enter the VBA project password provided with your licensed copy of Boltgroup, then click OK.

Step 4: From the VBA menu, go to Tools -> References. Locate the reference named Solver. If it is unchecked, check the box. If it is marked as MISSING, uncheck it, scroll through the list, and select the correct Solver reference (it may appear as Microsoft Solver).

Step 5: Click OK to confirm, then save the workbook.