#058 - Flocode Podcast 🌊 | Morten Engen - Structuralcodes Python Library Overview

Welcome back to another episode of the Flocode Podcast!

Today, we're kicking off 2025 with a deep dive into open-source tools for structural engineering. Our guest is Morten Engen, a civil engineer at Multiconsult and Adjunct Associate Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).

Morten is the lead developer of Structural Codes, an open-source Python library which paves a new path for how engineers approach capacity based design.

Documentation - https://fib-international.github.io/structuralcodes/

This episode is a live, hands-on demonstration, almost like a webinar, where Morten walks us through Structuralcodes, complete with practical coding examples and insights. Whether you're a seasoned python programmer or just getting started, you'll gain valuable knowledge about bridging engineering, coding and how our design codes are shaped.

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Show Notes:

• Episode Highlights:

  • Welcome to the Flocode Podcast and introductions.

  • About Dr. Morten Engen: career journey and academic background.

  • What is Structural Codes, and why was it developed?

  • An overview of the library: focusing on Eurocode 2 and reinforced concrete.

  • Challenges and inspirations in maintaining an open-source capacity tool.

  • Practical workflows: integrating Structural Codes with engineering tools like FEM software.

  • Live coding walkthrough: setting up and using Structural Codes.

  • Expanding to other codes like ACI and Canadian standards.

  • Modular architecture and customization for unique engineering needs.

  • Encouraging community contributions and future plans for Structural Codes.

• Key Links:

  • Structural Codes Documentation

  • GitHub Repository for Structural Codes (Star it, fork it, provide feedback and commentary!)

  • FIB Model Code Information

  • Connect with Morten Engen on LinkedIn

I really appreciate Morten’s efforts in leading the structuralcodes project. It’s a fantastic contribution to our industry and I hope that Flocode listeners investigate it, use it and ultimately help to shape it with practical feedback and suggestions.

This is my own personal intent as well. I am working toward implementing aspects of ACI 318-19 and CSA A23.3. If anybody is interested in helping with this, get in touch.

Thanks to Morten for sharing his excellent work and thank you all for your time and attention.

See you in the next one.

James 🌊