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MultiREBAR for BS8666 2001 released

We are pleased to announce we have released a new product for MultiREBAR that will allow bars to be detailed to the new  BS8666:2001 standard. 


What is BS8666 2001 ?
 BS8666 2001 is the new bar detailing standard for the United Kingdom and is based on the new European standard ISO 4066 2000.

What is MultiREBAR ?
 MultiREBAR is a leading bar detailing and scheduling application that uses AutoCAD technology to produce clear and accurate bar lists in a fraction of the time taken using manual methods.

How is BS8666 different to BS4466 ?

16 new shapes codes have been introduced
All shapes are now defined with new shape code references (for example a U-bar shape is now defined as a shape 21)
All bending radii have been changed
All standard bob sizes have been changed
Eight shape codes are now not available as standard shapes.
Error checking for minimum dimensions has been changed for all shapes
Many cut lengths are calculated differently for each shape.
Spiral Coil shape now defined by number of turns
User defined shape should not have more than 4 bends

Can I continue to detail my bars using BS4466 ?
The new version of MultiREBAR will allow you to work in either BS4466 or BS8666. Depending on the requirements of your current project you may choose to continue to work in BS4466 or convert your existing drawings over to the new BS8666.

Are Bar Benders able to bend to the new code ?
Most major bar bending companies will soon be able to bend to BS8666. It is also understood that most will allow the bending of both BS4466 and BS8666 standards for the foreseeable future.

Features of MultiREBAR BS8666:2001
MultiREBAR 8666 has been developed to allow a smooth transition to the new detailing standard. The ability to work in either standard and convert between standards at any time will be of great benefit within an automated detailing system.

Can I still type in the shape code at the command line ?
MultiREBAR BS8666 smart hotkey aliasing means that you can still type in shape codes you already use. For example, if you type in 20 at the command line MultiREBAR will assume you actually want to draw a shape 00 in the new code.

How much does the new code cost ?
Existing MultiREBAR users with current annual maintenance at the time of release can purchase the new MultiREBAR BS8666 product for an introductory cost of £195.00 per licence.

How has the object technology helped ?
MultiREBAR is developed using the latest object technology. Because of the internal class structure of the software this has enabled us to introduce this new code well ahead of any other Rebar detailing product. This same method has been used to develop many other international detailing standards including the American, Canadian and South African bar detailing standards.

Can I convert my current drawings from BS4466 to BS8666 ?
Yes - A significant feature of MultiREBAR BS8666 is that at any time you can convert your existing drawings to the new standard. Shape codes are renamed and the audit command will ensure that all bending radii and dimensions conform to the new code. Cut lengths are also recalculated.

Will the design links from QSE and Integer still import into the new MultiREBAR ?
Existing design files can be imported as BS4466 and then converted to BS8666 if required using the convert command.

What about the bars shapes that are no longer in the new standard ?
These shapes have been defined by MultiREBAR as user 99 shapes as specified by BS8666.

Bar List Footer automatically updates to current code
As part of the new conversion utility the bar list footer text will automatically update to reflect the current drawing standard.

When I install the new product will it disturb my existing customised settings
We strongly recommend that you install the new product over the top of your existing BS4466 product. The installation program will automatically preserve all of your existing preferences. This way you will be able to use both the BS4466 on your currently running projects and have the choice to convert to BS8666 as required.

Will training courses be available ?
MultiSUITE will be offering migration training days. These will be held in various training locations around the country. If you would like to register for these training days please email bs8666training@multisuite.com

If you are not already using MultiREBAR and are about to learn the new BS8666 code then now would be an ideal time to invest in MultiREBAR

Thank you for choosing MultiSUITE