WeldGroup — Eccentrically Loaded Weld Group Shear Capacity
- Plastic Analysis (LRFD)
- Elastic Analysis
- In-Plane Forces
- Out-of-Plane Forces
WeldGroup calculates the resistance of weld groups subjected to eccentric forces using both plastic and elastic methods per the AISC Manual, 16th Edition. Plastic analysis applies to fillet welds loaded in the plane of the faying surface and accounts for the increased strength of welds loaded at an angle, including a 50% strength increase for transverse loading relative to longitudinal. For eccentric weld groups, plastic analysis uses the Instantaneous Center of Rotation Method, which is more economical and better aligned with test results than the elastic method. Elastic analysis covers weld groups loaded in-plane or normal to the faying surface, computing stress vectors in three directions and combining them geometrically; it applies to both fillet and PJP welds. The spreadsheet provides a clear design summary, detailed results, and supporting theory and formulas.
Key Features
- Supports irregular weld patterns
- Auto-generates common weld patterns for convenience
- Accommodates multiple force components in-plane and normal to the faying surface
- Provides both LRFD (plastic) and elastic analysis methods
- Available in SI and US Customary units
Sample Screenshots
Troubleshooting Installation Issues
When installing WeldGroup, you may encounter issues related to Excel macros (VBA) or the Solver add-in. Follow the steps below to resolve them.
1. Enable Macros
Go to File → Options → Trust Center → Trust Center Settings → Macro Settings. Select Disable all macros with notification (recommended), then click OK. This allows you to enable macros for WeldGroup only without lowering security globally.
2. Install the Solver Add-in
Go to File → Options → Add-ins → Manage Excel Add-ins → Go. Check the box next to Solver Add-in and click OK. 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 WeldGroup menu, the Solver VBA automation library may not be referenced correctly.
Step 1: Open the VBA editor by pressing Alt + F11.
Step 2: In the Project Explorer, check whether SOLVER.XLAM is listed. If it is not, the Solver reference is invalid.
Step 3: Select your WeldGroup workbook in the Project Explorer. Enter the VBA project password provided with your licensed copy, then click OK.
Step 4: Go to Tools → References. Locate the reference named Solver. If unchecked, check it. If marked MISSING, uncheck it, scroll through the list, and select the correct Solver reference (may appear as Microsoft Solver).
Step 5: Click OK to confirm, then save the workbook.
Contact us if you are still having trouble.