What is the difference between precast and monolithic concrete beam families?

[Priit.L]

Can anyone point out the difference between precast concrete beam and monolithic concrete beam families?

I thought that it is just matter on material. But by changing material (to precast concrete) in beam family does not give it properties of precast beam: join possibilities and pocket seat and etc. By comparing the two families precast beam and ordinary beam- i could not find any differences.

So when i start a new beam family (for precast beam), what should be the family template? Should i add something to make it act as precast?

P.S. using RST 2009 latest build

[m20roxxers]

I would assume (without testing) that the precast has been designed as a pre defined object that would be taken to site therefore it would not have the join abilities that Cast on Site concrete would have.

just a guess.......

[AdamCP]

The difference between precast and insitu/monolithic is the "Structural Material Type" setting in the family, accessed by going to the Settings menu, then selecting "Family Category and Parameters" while editing the family. There, you have a choice of Steel, Concrete, Precast Concrete, Wood and Other.

Hope this helps.

Regards,
Adam.

[m20roxxers]

I think he was referring to the differences in behaviour the options exhibit in project.