Eurocode Load Combination Generator
Create permanent and variable load cases, select the adopted EN 1990 version and generate transparent ULS and SLS expressions. Numerical load values are optional, so the tool works both as a combination generator and a factored-load calculator.
EN 1990:2023 Formula 8.12
The second-generation persistent and transient ULS mode combines factored permanent actions with one full leading variable action and ψ0-reduced accompanying variable actions. A separate combination is produced for every active variable action that can lead.
Legacy EN 1990 Mode
Projects still using EN 1990:2002 + A1:2005 can select the isolated legacy engine. It supports Expression 6.10 or the alternative Expressions 6.10a and 6.10b without mixing their calculation logic with the 2023 dataset.
ULS and SLS Load Combinations
ULS combinations address the supplied persistent and transient structural-resistance rules. The calculator also generates characteristic, frequent and quasi-permanent SLS cases with the applicable ψ0, ψ1 and ψ2 coefficients shown beside every term.
National Annex and Project Values
The initial γ and ψ values are identified as CEN recommended values. Use the override controls when the adopted National Annex or project design basis defines different coefficients. Every export records the selected standard and whether custom values were used.
Mutually Exclusive Actions
Opposite wind or temperature directions should not occur together. Give those actions the same Exclusive Group name and the generator will create separate valid scenarios while retaining every direction as a possible leading action.
Favourable and Unfavourable Permanent Actions
Each permanent action can remain always unfavourable, always favourable or generate both cases. Practical mode removes obvious duplicates; Full mode expands meaningful permutations with a safety cap to avoid uncontrolled combinatorial growth.
Excel and PDF Reports
The Excel workbook contains project information, load cases, separate ULS and SLS sheets, factors and the standard-version record. The landscape PDF provides a multipage calculation schedule suitable for review and inclusion in preliminary design documentation.
Eurocode Load Combination Calculator FAQ
What does the Eurocode Load Combination Calculator generate?
It generates ULS and SLS combinations for building actions entered by the user. Every active variable action is considered as the leading action, while other variable actions receive the relevant accompanying ψ factor.
Which version of EN 1990 should I select?
Select the version adopted in the project design basis. EN 1990:2023 is the default second-generation mode. The separate EN 1990:2002 + A1:2005 mode is provided for projects that still use the first-generation Eurocodes during transition.
What is a leading variable action?
The leading action is the variable action considered dominant in a combination. It normally uses its full characteristic value in Formula 8.12, while accompanying actions are reduced by ψ0.
Why does the calculator generate several ULS combinations?
Live load, wind, snow, temperature and other variable actions can each govern. The generator therefore creates a separate case for every eligible leading action and respects mutually exclusive action directions.
What are ψ0, ψ1 and ψ2?
They are combination factors. ψ0 reduces accompanying variable actions, ψ1 is used for the leading action in a frequent SLS combination, and ψ2 represents quasi-permanent variable action values and accompanying actions in frequent combinations.
Can I use National Annex values?
Yes. Expand National Annex / Project Override to change γG, γQ and kF, or open Factors on a load row to change ψ0, ψ1, ψ2 and γQ. Reports clearly identify when custom values are used.
How are opposite wind directions handled?
Assign WX+ and WX− to the same Exclusive Group. The generator creates separate scenarios and never places both directions in one combination. The same mechanism can be used for temperature or custom mutually exclusive actions.
Can I generate combinations without entering load values?
Yes. Leave values blank to create symbolic coefficient expressions. Enter values when you also want the calculator to report a factored numerical total.
What is the difference between SLS characteristic, frequent and quasi-permanent combinations?
Characteristic SLS uses a full leading variable action and ψ0 for accompanying actions. Frequent SLS uses ψ1 for the leading action and ψ2 for accompanying actions. Quasi-permanent SLS applies ψ2 to every included variable action.
Does this tool replace structural engineering review?
No. National Annexes, action-specific Eurocodes, project specifications and design circumstances can change the required combinations. Final design combinations must be verified against the project design basis by a qualified structural engineer.
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