This is a one day "hands-on" training course, using SAM-LEAP5, which will give you a unique opportunity to experience an introduction to analysis and design using Eurocodes. The course is intended for both users and non-users of the software and it is not necessary to have any previous exposure to Eurocodes.

Users of SAM-LEAP5 will already know that all data forms in the software have detailed help for each data entry field and, where relevant, contain specific references to clauses in the current code of practice. This has proved to be an excellent way for guiding an engineer through the maze of documentation, which may be complex especially when new. Bridge design to Eurocodes is now almost upon us and you will be pleased to know that Bestech Systems have spent many months developing the same help facility in the Eurocode modules that are now available.

The course will concentrate on subjects related to the use of SAM-LEAP5 for reinforced concrete sections and traffic loading on bridges but the main principles will be relevant for other structural forms.

Short lectures will be interspersed with workshops where you will be able to use SAM-LEAP5 to help guide you around the relevant documentation and make some sense of all the new terminology.

This will cover basic data input concepts, data generation for line beams and plane grillages, the integration of beam and section modules, basic load application, combinations, envelopes and basic graphical/tabular presentation of results.

This is most suitable for new users of SAM-LEAP5 and experienced users of LEAP5 Classic wishing to learn the advantages of the new SAM-LEAP5 interface.

Half of the day will be spent investigating the finite element capability of the program taking the trainee through best practice, data input and results processing of finite elements. The rest of the day covers aspects of Automated Vehicle Load Optimisation, bridge deck and sub-models and general 3-D bridges and structures.

This course is suitable for engineers who have already taken an introductory course or who are very familiar with the basics of SAM-LEAP5.

This module covers additional advanced features in SAM-LEAP5. The morning concentrates on the various methods of modelling composite beam and shell finite element structures. The afternoon covers a variety of useful advanced topics as can be seen in the content below.

This course is suitable for engineers who have already taken an introductory course or who are very familiar with the basics of SAM-LEAP5.

This module describes how to perform section analysis using the SAM-LEAP5 software suite. It covers the definition of a wide variety of sections, including voided slabs, non-standard beams and complex multi-faceted sections. It also includes the calculation of torsion properties, differential temperature analysis, crack width calculations and early thermal cracking.

This module covers the process of designing steel/concrete composite beams in SAM-LEAP5. It includes instruction on how to define a beam with varying cross section along its span. It also shows how to define load effects for the beam and how to adjust the analysis parameters. The course also covers a basic introduction to line beam analysis and the integration between analysis and design.

This module covers the process of designing a pre-tensioned pre-stressed beam in SAM-LEAP5. It includes instruction on how to define the beam cross section, specify reinforcement, apply loads to the beam and how to adjust the analysis parameters. It sets out the recommended process for designing a beam, including when to debond and deflect tendons. It also demonstrates the prestress strand optimisation method.

This module covers the process of designing reinforced concrete beams in SAM-LEAP5. It includes instruction on how to define material properties, beam cross sections, soffit profiles and how to define the section and reinforcement locations. It shows how to apply loads to the beam and how to adjust the analysis parameters. The module also describes the graphical and tabular results produced by SAM-LEAP5.