# BeamDyn Release Date

**URL:** <https://forums.nlr.gov/t/beamdyn-release-date/1061>\
**Category:** Computer-Aided Engineering Software Tools\
**Created:** [January 27, 2015, 6:04pm UTC](https://forums.nlr.gov/t/beamdyn-release-date/1061 "2015-01-27T18:04:38Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Showing post:** 6

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**Author:** ![Jason.Jonkman](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/nrel/user_avatar/forums.nlr.gov/jason.jonkman/32/3086_2.png) [@Jason.Jonkman](https://forums.nlr.gov/u/Jason.Jonkman)\
**Post date:** [January 29, 2015, 1:49pm UTC](https://forums.nlr.gov/t/beamdyn-release-date/1061/6 "2015-01-29T13:49:48Z")

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Dear Khaled,

PreComp and VABS are sectional analysis tools that are used to derive equivalent beam properties of a cross section (6x6 sectional mass and stiffness matrices) based on the shape and composite layup of the cross section. A beam-analysis tool, such as BeamDyn, coupled within an aero-elastic tool is still needed to run load cases and calculate response over a range of conditions.

Regarding FAST, similar questions have been asked on the forum: [FAST Blade Structure: Isotropic vs. Anisotropic material](http://forums.nlr.gov/t/fast-blade-structure-isotropic-vs-anisotropic-material/971/1). Again, the arrival of BeamDyn will greatly expand the capability of FAST to analyze large flexible composite blades.

Best regards,

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