
March 28, 2023
Troubleshooting Log-In Error for RISACalc
RISACalc is RISA's cloud based structural design software for single components. Are you having issues logging into RISACalc on your web browser? Try these steps below.
Light-framed construction has become increasingly prevalent in mid-rise and modular development, driven by its cost-efficiency, speed of construction, and adaptability. But with flexibility comes complexity. Engineers designing with wood and cold-formed steel (CFS) must navigate a unique set of challenges: diaphragm behavior, segmented shear walls, buckling sensitivity, and code-specific checks that differ from traditional hot-rolled steel or reinforced concrete structures. This article explores practical modeling and design approaches for light-framed buildings, focusing on how structural engineers can balance constructability, analysis clarity, and compliance with governing codes. Diaphragm Behavior: Not Always Rigid In light-framed buildings, flexible diaphragms are often assumed due to the nature of wood sheathing or light-gauge decking. However, as buildings increase in size and irregularity, this assumption deserves scrutiny. Flexible diaphragm assumptions work well in rectangular buildings with regular framing, but irregular load paths or large openings may require semi-rigid modeling to capture torsional behavior. Engineers should consider the influence of diaphragm stiffness when assigning lateral forces, especially in hybrid systems where part of the structure may be stiffer or tied into concrete cores. In projects where semi-rigid diaphragm analysis was warranted, integrating tools like finite element meshing helped visualize how in-plane stiffness impacted overall response—particularly in designs…
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RISACalc is RISA's cloud based structural design software for single components. Are you having issues logging into RISACalc on your web browser? Try these steps below.
The latest release of ADAPT-Builder (22.0.1) includes an integrated concrete column code check feature that allows users to easily check concrete columns for code compliance. Utilizing the ACI 318-19 or ACI 318-14 design code, the code check feature will perform capacity checks for bending, axial,...
The new Beam over Column connection in RISAConnection Version 14 provides engineers with an additional connection design capability. Columns can be Wide Flange or HSS Tubes or Pipes. For more information about this new connection, check out the video below:
When using the Distance tool in RISA-3D, the program outputs Rxz, Rzy, Ryz. These angles represent the angle the Distance Tool line makes with respect to the each respective plane. Rxy represents the angle the distance line makes with respect to the XY plane.
Structural engineering is a branch of civil engineering that deals with the design and analysis of structures such as buildings, bridges, and tunnels. Becoming a structural engineer in the United States requires a rigorous education and training process that involves several steps. In this article,...
Women in Construction Week is an annual event that takes place during the first full week of March. This week-long event celebrates women in the construction industry and their contributions to the field. The event was established by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) in 1953...
The ever-increasing complexity of structural engineering operations and software can be overwhelming. Many firms struggle to keep pace with emerging technology, regulations, and performance expectations. By leveraging the right tools and processes, your firm can maximize productivity while reducing...
RISA-3D, RISAFloor and RISAFoundation now include support for IBC 2021!
With the addition of Filter Elements by Property option in RISA-3D v21, the printed reports have been improved. In previous versions, you had to filter each report section. Now you’ll find the Report spreadsheets can be filter in one location for the printed report. The Filter Elements by Property...
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