A load combination sums or envelopes the analysis results of certain load cases. Summation is often suitable for a linear analysis in which results are superimposed, such as with 1.2*DL+1.6*LL. For nonlinear analysis, it is often best to combine load patterns within load cases, then use load combinations to compute response envelopes. Load combination results include displacements and forces at joint locations, and internal member forces and stresses.

Tips

• We do not recommend enveloping design load combinations. Simply add all load combinations, then let the software design and report specifications at each design station for each governing case. Governing results may be checked through Tables > Design > Result Summary.