The RFEM software was used to calculate a spiral metal staircase located in an office building in London.

This spiral staircase, made by D Wilson Architectural Metalworks Ltd, is composed of stringers and treads made of solid 25mm thick sheet metal with S275 grade steel. The stringers have a height of approximately 1.40m and also serve as guardrails. The landing is composed of metal beams fixed in the opening.

The RFEM model is mainly composed of surface elements. The finite element analysis allowed for controlling the various stresses throughout the structure. In addition, it was necessary to ensure that the deformation of the staircase is minimized in order to avoid any damage to the terrazzo floor.

The Steel Verification and Stress-Strain Analysis add-on modules were used to perform justifications according to Eurocode 3 with the UK National Annex on bar elements and stress checks in surfaces.

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