Utilizing RISA-3D for Seismic Design of Concrete Walls

In RISA-3D we now have the ability to design concrete shear walls for seismic forces.

There are 3 main aspects to concrete shear wall design. We will explain them here.

• Pier Design: ACI 318-14 Section 18.10.8 defines the wall pier design parameters.

• Coupling Beam Design: ACI 318-14 Section 18.10.7 defines the coupling beam design parameters.

• Boundary Zone Design: ACI 318-14 Section 18.10.6 defines the boundary zone design parameters. Currently RISA-3D determines whether a boundary zone is required or not per Section 18.10.6.3.

These results are then condensed into a single code spreadsheet view complete with code checks.

For details on the calculations and the additional reinforcement checks, search Concrete Walls – Seismic Design topic in the RISA-3D help file.

Additionally, check out the video below for more information concerning concrete wall design for seismic forces.