What is SAP 2000?

SAP 2000, part of the SAP series of computer programs, is a software system based on SAP that is used for the design, analysis, and programming of all types of structure systems within civil engineering. Thanks to the SAP 2000 program, it is possible to model and analyze simple or complex geometric structures that need to be planned in construction with different structural and various properties. These models can be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. SAP 2000 significantly accelerates engineering processes with this computer program system, offering limitless planning and calculation opportunities that cannot be realized in a physical environment within the construction industry. Released for the first time in 1996, SAP 2000 is the first module compatible with Windows among the SAP series. Equipped with a powerful interface and advanced features for modeling complex structures, SAP 2000 is one of the important software choices in the industry.

What is SAP 2000 Used For?

SAP 2000 is a comprehensive engineering software that plays a significant role in the construction sector and its related engineering fields. However, the SAP 2000 software is not limited to these areas and sectors; it is open to use in every field associated with structural design. SAP 2000 can undertake many tasks under modeling and configuration. Especially in sections such as modeling, analysis, design, load selection, and similar areas, SAP 2000 helps in creating structural designs due to its user-friendly interface, which allows for the emergence of complex structures in simpler forms. Through its object-oriented interface, modeling templates within the software contribute to accelerating the process. SAP 2000 includes dozens of different modeling types for all kinds of structures.

The SAP 2000 program supports almost all analysis methods and necessary templates for areas in need of civil engineering and related configuration thanks to its comprehensive system. With the code-based load module that comes ready upon loading, factors such as force, weight, and wave can be added to the modeled structure. This results in obtaining a realistic model and helps to create a structure that is true to life.

How to Perform Analysis Operations in SAP 2000?

With its GUI (Graphical User Interface), SAP 2000 allows for the visualization of design and structure geometry, modeling analyses, features, and analysis results. The mentioned analysis operations are examined in three different sections: pre-processing, solving, and post-processing. Information and details about these analysis sections are listed as follows:
● PRE-PROCESSING
In the pre-processing section, the first part of the analysis operations in SAP 2000, the user must enter the information shown and thus a modeling analysis must be conducted by SAP 2000, which records the relevant information:
- First, a unit must be selected for the project.
- The geometry of the structure and design must be adjusted.
- The material and member cross-section properties to be used in the project must be defined.
- The loading condition must be defined in the relevant section.
- Load magnitudes must be assigned.
- The constraints of the structure related to the project must be assigned.

● SOLVING
In the next section called solving, SAP 2000 begins the assembly and global matrix solving processes as a result of the provided information. There are several steps to follow in this direction. First, the analysis menu should be accessed, and the communication box should be found from the options; in this section, the DOF must be checked. If the analysis is of lattice type in the plane, UX and UY should be checked, while the RX, RY, RZ, and UZ sections should be left blank. After this operation, the 'OK' option should be clicked, and the 'Run' button must be pressed. After the structure is saved in the model file, the extension will be established; after this operation, the 'OK' button should be pressed again to start the analysis operations. Once the analysis operations are completed, it is possible to review the necessary reports from the message box titled FULL ANALYSIS.

● POST-PROCESSING
In the post-processing section, 5 basic applications are examined. Accordingly, the deformation shape and forces are displayed. Then, the results are printed, and a general design safety check is performed. Finally, if changes are desired in the resulting model, its structure can be altered.

What Can Be Done in SAP 2000?

To illustrate its purposes and functions, let’s give an example of what SAP 2000 is used for. For instance, in the modeling of bridges, which are large and complex structures built in cities, many factors need to be considered. However, even if we perform such computations on paper, being able to see how they will visually turn out allows us to get a step ahead in planning. In this direction, along with the SAP 2000 program, templates can be created for factors that must be considered in the construction of bridges, such as wind speed, the load capacity of the bridge, and integrity.

Another example could be the earthquake factor considered in a building model, which can be properly adjusted in SAP 2000 through the load module and other features. In planning and modeling that take natural disaster situations into account, the solutions to be produced in such circumstances are also structured thanks to the analysis engine that comes with SAP 2000.

How to Learn SAP 2000?

Thanks to developing technology and rapidly increasing information resources, it is possible to learn SAP 2000 quickly online today. In this context, the SAP 2000 program can be learned through written resources or training provided individually by private institutions or individuals. It is also quite possible for a person to learn SAP 2000 on their own without any educational assistance. With many resources available on the internet, it is possible to learn the basics quickly.

How to Install SAP 2000?

To install SAP 2000, you need to review and follow the steps in the installation documents provided with the SAP 2000 package. You may ask your system administrator to install the program and provide you access permission to it. Additionally, if you have a consulting firm from which you are receiving services, they will carry out the entire installation of the system for you.

What Are the Prices of SAP 2000?

The price of SAP2000 software varies according to different usage models. The program has models such as Basic, Plus, Advanced, and Ultimate, and its prices vary significantly. The lowest priced license for SAP 2000 is approximately $2,000, while the price for the ultimate package is around $12,000. Additionally, to avoid being affected by updates and program version upgrades, an annual maintenance fee of $1,400.00 needs to be paid extra.