RAM International announces release of RAM Concrete

Concrete Construction, Feb, 2003

RAM International has released its new fully integrated concrete design software, RAM Concrete. RAM Concrete is seamlessly integrated into the RAM Structural System and contains advanced features not available in competing products such as automatic pattern loading, beam and column design per ACI 318 for lateral and gravity members, column and beam schedules for CAD, and fast and easy layout and design of concrete systems. This software allows engineers to investigate multiple design alternatives, compare and refine designs, and produce more complete construction documents in a fraction of the time. While all types of systems can be analyzed, this first release focuses on beam and column design. Expected in the next release are post-tensioned beam and shear wall design and detailing, with future versions containing two-way systems.

"Concrete Design has long been the most requested feature in the RAM Structural System, and this release is the culmination of many years of effort to satisfy those requests," stated Michael Markovitz, President of RAM International. "The feedback we are receiving is that RAM Concrete will be the biggest advancement in structural engineering software since RAM Steel first revolutionized the design of steel structures in 1990."

With only a bit more information input, RAM Steel users will now be able to compare steel and concrete design options within minutes. Never before has the engineer been so able to thoroughly look at both steel and concrete systems without the exhaustive and time consuming efforts they currently must perform. Commenting on this new capability for engineers to more easily investigate and design concrete structures, Tom Tietz, Western Regional Manager of the Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute (CRSI) stated, "RAM Concrete is absolutely the most exciting technology in concrete design that I have seen in my 8 years at CRSI."

Engineers will be introduced to RAM Concrete in the upcoming 2003 CRSI Tech Event, beginning January 13, 2003 and running in over 40 cities throughout the United States. This annual event by CRSI showcases some of the latest technologies and economical design concepts related to concrete construction. CECO Concrete and CRSI will also be featured speakers at these events. A complete schedule and program information are available from CRSI at www.crsi.com or at 847-517-1200. Ram International can be contacted at www.ramint.com or 800-726-7789.