November 21, 2022

Model & Analyze Post-Tensioned Elements in Ramps

ADAPT-Builder provides the user with the ability to add post-tensioning to ramps modeled within the program. Users can add tendons in ramp slabs as well as add tendons in beams supporting the ramp. The tendons and effects of the tendons on the structure will be included in the analysis of the model. To learn more about this feature, watch the video below:

Additional information about the modeling and analysis of post-tensioned tendons in ramps can be found by reviewing the ADAPT-Builder Online Help file:

Tags: Tendons, ADAPT-Builder, ADAPT, New, Ramps, Popular

March 25, 2025 | New, Structural Engineering

Wood vs. Steel: Making the Right Choice for Your Building

Choosing between wood and steel for your next project isn’t just a material decision—it’s a balancing act of strength, cost, sustainability, and performance. As structural engineers, we know there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But with the right tools (like RISA), you can model, compare, and optimize your designs with confidence. So, let’s break it down: wood vs. steel—how do they stack up? Strength & Performance: The Heavy Hitters Both materials are powerhouses in their own right, but their strengths shine in different scenarios: Wood – Lightweight yet incredibly strong, wood is the go-to for low- to mid-rise buildings. Mass timber products like CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber) push the limits even further, allowing for taller structures while offering fire resistance and sustainability. Steel – Need long spans, high loads, or extreme durability? Steel is your best friend. Its superior strength and ductility make it the material of choice for high-rises and structures in seismic or high-wind zones. 📊 How RISA Helps: Whether it’s checking lateral loads in a steel frame with RISA-3D or optimizing wood shear walls in RISAFloor, you can analyze every aspect of your structure before the first beam is placed. Cost & Sustainability: Budget vs. Carbon Footprint Wood – Generally…

November 2, 2016 | Seismic, RISA-3D, New, Loading

Basic Code Terms for Seismic Behavior and Why We Use Them

Seismic Forces are generated automatically using seismic parameters R, SD1, and SDS in the Seismic Load Generator when using the Director to go from RISAFloor to RISA-3D or when inserting Seismic Loads on a rigid diaphragm in RISA-3D. Additionally, Seismic Load Combinations can be generated using the seismic parameters ρ, Ωo, and SDS and applied to the structure. These seismic parameters are used to approximate the inelastic response of the structure subjected to seismic design lateral forces. Figure 1 shows a simplified example of what some of the seismic parameters represent when looking at force versus drift for a lateral system. In RISA-3D, the seismic load generator is accessed by selecting the Advanced tab and then clicking on Seismic. When the load generator opens and the loads are calculated the dialogue looks like the image below. R is the Response Modification Factor as defined in Table 12.2-1 of ASCE 7-16. It provides a reduction for the design seismic force based on the ductility of the system. The program offers a single user-input R value in each Global direction. R is used in the calculation of the Seismic Response Coefficient, Cs, which determines the Seismic Base Shear, V, and these values…

December 20, 2018 | RISA-3D, RISAFoundation, New, Rebar

How to Create and Apply A Custom Rebar Layout

Applying a Custom Rebar Layout in RISA-3D: To begin creating a custom rebar layout, simply click the Custom Rebar Layout button located in the Advanced tab of the ribbon toolbar. In RISA-3D, within the rebar layout dialog you can create a custom rebar layout for concrete beams, concrete columns and even create a custom shear rebar layout. Using the rebar layout editor is very easy and the following example will demonstrate creating a custom rebar layout for a rectangular concrete column. Click “New” to create a new rebar layout and create a label for the layout. Select whether the rebar layout is for a rectangular column or circular column. You can also choose the rebar standard and yield stress for your custom rebar configuration. To create the reinforcement layout, input the parameters into the spreadsheet to configure each row of rebar. Each parameter is explained below: 1. Placement: This is the direction that will determine where the reinforcement will be measured from (based on the reference graphic). Top or Bottom: The row of reinforcement will be measured from the top or bottom of the concrete member and will distributed the number of rebar horizontally and evenly between the concrete cover…