Tips & Tricks | Structural Engineering

November 11, 2026

Glass Curtain Wall Design in RISA-3D: Member Design

RISA-3D can support the analysis of aluminum framing for glass curtain wall systems using its member modeling, loading, and custom section capabilities. Although the program does not include dedicated curtain wall tools, these existing features provide a practical and customizable workflow for evaluating framing forces, stresses, and deflections. The following tips provide general guidance for engineers modeling a section of curtain wall, rather than a prescribed design method. Apply engineering judgment when selecting modeling assumptions, interpreting results, and completing external checks. Establish a Framing Model A framing only model focuses on the structural members without introducing glass panel stiffness. This simplifies the model and allows the engineer to select and verify an appropriate load distribution from the glass to the framing. The glass stresses, deflections, and capacity will be evaluated separately. Draw structural members to represent the curtain wall geometry, and assign boundary conditions to reflect the assumed attachment points. Review member orientation and connectivity before applying loads. Apply Loading Area loads provide a convenient way to apply loading to the framing. RISA-3D distributes area loads to members within the loaded region based on the tributary area. Verify the load direction and review the generated transient basic load cases to…