Question 1

What is FRAME2Dexpress?

Accepted Answer

FRAME2Dexpress is a RUNET Software program for static and dynamic analysis of 2-dimensional (plane) frame structures, with built-in member design and verification of concrete, steel and timber members according to the Eurocodes.

Question 2

Who develops FRAME2Dexpress?

Accepted Answer

It is developed by RUNET Software (RUNET Norway AS), a Norwegian firm based in Tennfjord that specialises in structural-engineering software designed around the Eurocodes with National Annex adaptations.

Question 3

Does it do dynamic analysis as well as static?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In addition to static analysis (displacements, bending moment, shear and axial force diagrams), it performs dynamic analysis, computing the eigenfrequencies and mode shapes of the frame.

Question 4

Which Eurocodes does it design members to?

Accepted Answer

Load combinations follow Eurocode 1. Members are designed/verified to Eurocode 2 (reinforced concrete), Eurocode 3 (steel) and Eurocode 5 (timber). The vendor cites specific clauses: EC2 §6 and §5.8.3 (column second-order), EC3 §6.2 and §6.3 (buckling/lateral-torsional buckling), and EC5 §6 and §6.3 (stability).

Question 5

What materials can I design?

Accepted Answer

Reinforced concrete, structural steel and timber members — and you can combine all three in a single frame model, each verified to its respective Eurocode.

Question 6

How do I build a model quickly?

Accepted Answer

Use the structure prototype wizard, which provides 21 ready-made frame types, or define the structure manually by entering nodal coordinates and element connectivity. Loads and member properties are parametric.

Question 7

What loads and load combinations are supported?

Accepted Answer

Nodal forces and moments, and element distributed loads (uniform, triangular, symmetric triangular and symmetric parabolic) applied perpendicular, vertical or horizontal, with optional self-weight. Load combinations are generated per Eurocode 1 with user-editable coefficients (default Cg=1.35, Cq=1.50 for static).

Question 8

Does it include steel section properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It includes lists of every available nominal steel profile with its section properties, so you can assign and verify steel members without external section tables.

Question 9

What output and reports does it produce?

Accepted Answer

Graphical diagrams for the analysis results and mode shapes, plus a complete design report with Eurocode section references that you can preview, print and export to Word.

Question 10

How is FRAME2Dexpress different from FRAME2Dexpress + EC Design?

Accepted Answer

The base FRAME2Dexpress focuses on 2D static and dynamic frame analysis, while the FRAME2Dexpress + EC Design version adds the full Eurocode member design and verification for concrete, steel and timber. Confirm with RAM CADDSYS which edition matches your needs.

Question 11

Is there a free version for learning?

Accepted Answer

Yes. RUNET offers a free Lite version of FRAME2Dexpress intended for educational and evaluation use.

Question 12

What platform does it run on, and what units does it use?

Accepted Answer

It is a Windows desktop application and works in metric units.

Question 13

Is FRAME2Dexpress available in India through RAM CADDSYS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. RAM CADDSYS (Chennai, India) distributes RUNET Software products, including FRAME2Dexpress, providing licensing, training and technical support for structural-engineering firms in India and the region. Contact RAM CADDSYS for current pricing and the right edition.

Criterion	FRAME 2D express	FRAME 2D
Positioning	FRAME 2D expressSimplified, streamlined interface for quick structural checks and rapid frame setup	FRAME 2DGeneral-purpose plane-frame analysis covering a wider range of frame, truss and grillage configurations
Element types	Plane frame members built from 21 ready-made prototypes or manual nodal-coordinate entry	Strength: Beam, column and truss elements, including end hinges, tension-only members and 2D grillages
Analysis capability	Strength: Static and dynamic (modal) analysis — internal forces, displacements, eigenfrequencies and mode shapes	Strength: Static and dynamic (modal) analysis — internal forces, displacements, eigenfrequencies and mode shapes, same as FRAME 2D express
Cross-section input	Built-in library of nominal steel profiles with section properties	Strength: Sections by area/inertia properties or by dimensions (rectangular, T, L), plus built-in steel profile lists
Report export	Preview, print and export to Word	Export to Word and PDF

Quick2DFrameAnalysisandMemberVerification

What is FRAME 2D express?

Applications

Preliminary frame design and sizing

Code-compliant member checks to Eurocode

Independent / check analysis

Steel portal and pitched-roof frames

Mixed-material frames

Teaching and learning structural analysis

Supported codes and standards

EN (Eurocode, with National Annex adaptations)

BIM Integration

Microsoft Word

RUNET express software family

FRAME 2D express vs FRAME 2D

Part of the RUNET Family

Looking for FRAME 2D express Training?

License Types

Perpetual License

Subscription License

Frequently Asked Questions

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