Bentley RAM Connection 2026 for Lifetime

Bentley RAM Connection 2026 for Windows is specialized structural engineering software designed to analyze, design, verify, and optimize steel connections in buildings and industrial structures. Developed by Bentley Systems, it helps structural engineers evaluate the strength and performance of beam-to-column joints, bracing connections, base plates, gusset plates, splices, and other structural steel connections.

The software provides design tools for bolted and welded connections, including shear connections, moment connections, combined connections, truss connections, and column base plates with anchor bolts. Engineers can define connection geometry, bolt arrangements, weld sizes, plate dimensions, stiffeners, and other parameters to evaluate connection behavior under applied forces.

RAM Connection 2026 supports structural design workflows based on applicable standards, including AISC, Eurocode EN 1993, and India’s IS 800. The 2026 release adds Bentley Copilot integration for accessing documentation and workflow guidance, an improved bolt database with explicit yield and ultimate strength properties, and custom bolt-grade support.

The release also expands bracing connection design under EN 1993 and IS 800, adds mitred knee connections for tapered members, and updates base-plate anchorage design to ACI 318-25. Improved shear lug options and connection reporting help engineers prepare more detailed design documentation.

RAM Connection can operate as a standalone application or integrate with compatible Bentley structural engineering products, including STAAD.Pro, RAM Elements, and RAM Structural System. Its 3D visualization, connection checking, optimization, and DXF export tools support structural design coordination and fabrication documentation.

Key Features

• Structural steel connection design and verification
• Bolted and welded connection analysis
• Shear, moment, and combined connection design
• Beam-to-column, beam-to-girder, and beam-to-beam connections
• Beam and column splice design
• Bracing, gusset plate, and truss connection design
• Column base plate and anchor bolt calculations
• Custom bolt grades with yield and ultimate strength properties
• Connection optimization and design checking
• Support for applicable AISC, EN 1993, IS 800, and other design standards
• 3D connection visualization and clearance checking
• DXF drawing generation and CAD export
• Design reports and connection summaries
• Integration with compatible Bentley structural applications

What’s New in Version 2026

• Bentley Copilot integration for in-application documentation and workflow assistance
• Updated bolt database with explicit Fy and Fu properties
• Support for custom bolt grades
• Chevron and vertical X-brace connection support under EN 1993 and IS 800
• Vertical X-brace configurations with one continuous bracing member
• Mitred knee connections for tapered members under EN 1993 and IS 800
• Base plate anchorage updates for ACI 318-25
• Expanded shear lug and shear transfer configurations
• Corrections to selected connection calculations and design reports

Professional Applications

• Structural steel building design
• Industrial structures and steel frameworks
• Beam-to-column and beam-to-girder connection engineering
• Bolted and welded joint verification
• Braced-frame and truss connection design
• Base plate and anchor bolt design
• Steel connection optimization
• Structural engineering quality checks
• Fabrication drawings and connection documentation

System Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11, 64-bit
• Processor: 1.3 GHz or faster x64-compatible processor
• RAM: 2GB minimum
• Storage: 675MB available for installation and approximately 2GB for analyzing models
• Graphics: OpenGL-compatible graphics card with at least 512MB video memory
• Display: 1024 × 768 minimum resolution
• Licensing: Bentley CONNECTION Client and a valid license entitlement

Recommended Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 11, 64-bit
• Processor: Modern multi-core Intel or AMD x64 processor
• RAM: 8GB or more for larger projects and multitasking
• Storage: SSD with at least 5GB of free working space
• Graphics: Modern OpenGL-compatible graphics hardware
• Display: 1920 × 1080 or higher
• Internet: Reliable connection for activation, licensing, and software updates