For those who want an in-depth understanding, the official "Prokon User's Guide" is an extensive 636-page PDF, originally provided on the software's installation CD-ROM. This document is designed to be a complete reference, taking you from installation to advanced features.
Prokon (now part of the Bentley Systems suite) is a widely used software package for structural analysis and design in Southern Africa and beyond. Despite its powerful capabilities, many users lack a consolidated, step-by-step reference. This paper proposes a structured framework for a – a self-contained digital document that guides a beginner through essential modules (e.g., Frame Analysis, Pad Footing Design, Steel Member Design). The paper outlines the target audience, prerequisite knowledge, chapter structure, worked examples, and best practices for creating an effective, searchable PDF tutorial.
Navigate to the tab. Define your concrete grade (e.g., C30/37) or steel grade (e.g., S355).
Save drawings directly to DXF format or use PROKON’s CAD engine (Padd) to finalize structural detailing sheets. Best Practices for PROKON Users
A 50- to 80-page document is ideal for a foundational tutorial. Below is a suggested chapter layout. prokon tutorial pdf
Axial Force (N) ^ | /-----------\ | / \ <-- Capacity Curve | / * Safe \ | | (Load Point) | | | | +--+-----------------+----> Moment (M) | | \ / * Unsafe (Outside Curve) \--------------/ 7. Best Practices for Professional Workflow
Create your primary load cases: Load Case 1 (Dead Load / Self-Weight), Load Case 2 (Live/Imposed Load), and Load Case 3 (Wind Load).
This section deals with soil-structure interaction. Key tutorials focus on slope stability, bearing capacity of shallow footings, and pile foundation design. Where to Find Quality Prokon Tutorial PDFs
By taking advantage of these resources and practicing with Prokon, you can become proficient in structural analysis and design and take your career to the next level. For those who want an in-depth understanding, the
Perform linear, non-linear, buckling, and dynamic (seismic) analyses. 2. Concrete Design
Go to the tab. Import standard steel profiles or define custom rectangular/T-beam concrete sections. Step 3: Drawing Geometry Use the Grid tool to lay out your structural axes.
What is your current with structural analysis software?
: Provides downloadable "Solution Specification Sheets" for various modules including Analysis, Steel, Concrete, and Geotech. Despite its powerful capabilities, many users lack a
Input variable loads based on building occupancy.
: A popular 15-lesson tutorial series covering everything from initial setup to foundation design. Essential Workflow Steps
Use the structure wizard in Frame Analysis to quickly generate common structural shapes.
: If you prefer visual learning before reading the PDFs, the Prokon Tutorials for Beginners series on YouTube covers the basics of analysis and design.
Designing base plates, bolted, and welded connections. 5. Geotechnical and General Modules Foundation Design: Pad footing and pile cap design.