Tips & Tricks

January 1, 2026

Top RISA-3D Features Engineers Underuse

Powerful Tools Don’t Help If They’re Left Unused Many engineers evaluate analysis software based on core modeling and design checks. But once a demo is over, some of the most impactful features are the ones that quietly save time on real projects — especially mid-size jobs where efficiency matters most. These aren’t advanced edge-case tools. They’re everyday features that often go underused. Diaphragm Forces: See Load Paths Instead of Guessing Diaphragm force output is one of the most valuable — and least leveraged — parts of a full building model. Instead of relying on manual distribution or conservative assumptions, engineers can directly see how loads are flowing to vertical elements. For mid-size structures, this clarity can mean: Fewer overdesigned collectors More confidence in lateral load paths Faster review and revisions when layouts change Batch Results: Review Smarter, Not Longer Batch results allow engineers to review multiple load cases, members, or design checks in a single pass. Instead of hunting through individual reports, patterns become obvious quickly. On mid-size jobs, this speeds up: QA/QC reviews Iterative design changes Comparing “before and after” scenarios It’s not about skipping checks — it’s about seeing the full picture sooner. Design Iteration Speed Is the…

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Why does my slab deflection increase using ACI 318-19?
December 21, 2021

Why does my slab deflection increase using ACI 318-19?

Since the release of RISAFloor v15 and ADAPT-Builder v20, both which include the latest update to the ACI code (ACI 318-19), some customers have asked our support team why they're experiencing increased slab deflections. These increased deflections are the result of changes in the calculation of...

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Automatic Calculation of Long-Term Load Factors in ADAPT-Builder
December 17, 2021

Automatic Calculation of Long-Term Load Factors in ADAPT-Builder

With the release of ADAPT-Builder v21, users now has the option to have the program automatically calculate long-term load factors using two different methodologies. Calculation of Long-Term Load Factors is available using all design codes but is implemented based on ACI 209. When calculating these...

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Beam Deflection Ratio Options
June 21, 2018

Beam Deflection Ratio Options

RISA-3D v16.0.4 introduces an enhancement that will allow for more control over the beam deflection ratio through Deflection Ratio Options. As part of the member properties, you can now designate the ends of single and multi-span beams as a cantilever or supported. This will determine whether the...

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Long Term Deflection in RISAFloor ES
April 26, 2018

Long Term Deflection in RISAFloor ES

RISAFloor ES has the ability to check the Long Term Deflection with Creep and Shrinkage. The program uses an iterative method to adjust the plate stiffness until it converges upon a solution. You can setup all the necessary coefficients and factors in the Model Settings (as shown below).

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Why Are The Steel Beam Deflections So Large?
September 6, 2013

Why Are The Steel Beam Deflections So Large?

When solving a RISA-3D model with hot rolled steel members under the AISC 360-05 (13th Edition), AISC 360-10 (14th Edition) or AISC 360-16 (15th Edition) codes you may find that your member deflections are roughly 20% larger than you would expect. To understand why see the AISC 360-10...

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