> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.enercalc.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.enercalc.com/e3d-user-manual/interface/toc175916526/toc175916652/member-properties/toc161393956-2.md).

# Cracking Factors

How to assign cracking factors to selected beams, columns, and plates to reduce bending stiffness.

Create (or Modify) > Member Properties > Cracking Factors prompts you with the following dialog.

![](https://560001759-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWNe8U6EBBBdUJHdb2X9G%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-14b188a24dbd22da85971975e3b591bf160b895e%2FFASTFR~1_img191.png?alt=media)

It allows you to assign cracking factors to selected beams, columns, and plates. Cracking factors apply only to bending stiffness of members and shell elements.

{% hint style="info" %}
Note: *Cracking factors are not considered by the program unless you check the option “Use cracked section properties (Icr) for members and finite elements” in Analysis > Analysis Options. Analysis results are cleared after assignment of cracking factors.*
{% endhint %}


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