Questions
1. Can you elaborate the concept of Moment-Resisting Frame (MRF) on structural
buildings?
- Moment-Resisting Frames (MRFs) are structural systems where beams and
columns are rigidly connected to resist bending forces, allowing the frame to
withstand both vertical and sideways loads like wind or earthquakes. They are
designed to flex without breaking, making them strong and flexible for buildings in
areas prone to seismic activity.
2. What is the purpose of criteria selection in the NSCP 2015?
- The purpose of criteria selection in the NSCP 2015 is to determine the
appropriate design parameters for a building based on factors such as location,
use, and seismic risk.
3. You have stated that there are ‘Systems not specifically designed for seismic resistance’
Why might some buildings not include seismic-resistant features?
- Cost considerations, lack of seismic activity in the region, or outdated
construction codes may lead to the omission of seismic-resistant features.
4. How does a cantilever column system differ from a regular column system?
- A cantilever column system is a type of structure where the column is fixed at
one end and extends without support at the other end, creating a cantilever.
5. Can you explain more about the dual system in structural design?
- A dual system combines two different types of structural systems, such as a
moment-resisting frame and shear walls, to provide enhanced stability and
strength.
6. How do irregular features in a building’s design impact its performance during an
earthquake?
- Irregular features in a building's design, such as uneven shapes, asymmetrical
layouts, or varying heights, can cause uneven distribution of seismic forces
during an earthquake. These irregularities can lead to torsional movement, where
different parts of the building twist or rotate differently, increasing the risk of
structural damage or failure. The building may also experience more
concentrated forces in certain areas, weakening its overall stability and
performance during an earthquake.
7. How does the "Soil Profile Type" affect seismic design in NSCP 2015?
- The Soil Profile Type affects how seismic waves travel through the ground.
Different soil types can amplify or reduce seismic waves, influencing how a
building should be designed to withstand earthquakes.
8. How does the occupancy category matter in buildings
- The occupancy category of a building reflects its intended use and the level of
risk to human life in case of failure, which influences its design requirements.
Higher-risk categories, like hospitals or schools, require stricter safety standards
and structural resilience to ensure occupant protection during emergencies like
earthquakes or fires
9. What is the difference and its effects between the earthquake force resisting structural
systems of concrete ,steel, masonry and wood.
- The earthquake force-resisting systems of concrete, steel, masonry, and
wood differ significantly in terms of their material properties, flexibility,
strength, and behavior under seismic forces, each having distinct effects
on their performance in earthquakes.
- Steel systems are highly flexible and ductile, allowing them to deform without
breaking, which makes them particularly well-suited to absorbing and dissipating
energy during seismic events.
- Concrete, while strong in compression, is relatively brittle under tension and
requires reinforcement, such as steel rebar, to prevent cracking and improve its
ductility.
- Masonry structures, typically made of brick or stone, are rigid and strong in
compression but lack ductility, which makes them less effective at resisting
seismic forces.
- Wood structures are lightweight and relatively flexible, which allows them to
perform well in moderate seismic conditions by swaying with the forces rather
than resisting them.
10. What is the difference between Moment-Resisting Frame (MRF) and Special
Moment-Resisting Frame (SMRF) on structural buildings?
- The difference between a **Moment-Resisting Frame (MRF)** and a **Special
Moment-Resisting Frame (SMRF)** lies primarily in their design and performance
during seismic events, specifically in terms of the level of ductility and energy
dissipation.
● Moment-Resisting Frame (MRF): This is a general structural system
where beams and columns are rigidly connected to resist both vertical
and lateral loads. MRFs are designed to resist bending moments without
relying on additional braces or shear walls. While they provide flexibility to
absorb seismic forces, their level of ductility and energy dissipation may
not be as high as that of a Special Moment-Resisting Frame. MRFs are
typically used in buildings that are not subjected to high seismic risks, or
where other forms of lateral force resistance are in place.
● Special Moment-Resisting Frame (SMRF): SMRFs are a more
advanced version of MRFs designed specifically to withstand higher
levels of seismic forces. They are engineered to provide **greater
ductility**, meaning they can undergo significant deformations without
failing during an earthquake. The connections in an SMRF are specifically
designed to dissipate energy during seismic events, allowing the frame to
flex and absorb energy, rather than simply resisting it. This makes SMRFs
ideal for high-seismic-risk areas or in buildings that need to meet stricter
safety requirements during earthquakes.
11. Which has more impact, the vertical or horizontal movement?
- Horizontal movement typically has a greater impact on buildings during
earthquakes than vertical movement. This is because earthquakes primarily
produce lateral (side-to-side) forces that cause buildings to sway horizontally.
These forces can lead to significant structural damage, especially in high-rise
buildings.
- Vertical movement, on the other hand, is usually less of a concern, as buildings
are designed to handle vertical loads from gravity (e.g., the weight of floors and
occupants). However, if combined with horizontal forces, vertical movements can
amplify the damage, but the primary concern remains the horizontal sway.
12. How does discontinuity in a structural system affect its stability?
- Discontinuity in a structural system occurs when there are sudden changes or
breaks in the load path, such as where a beam ends abruptly or where columns
are not properly aligned. This can negatively affect a building's stability by
creating weak points that may not distribute forces evenly, leading to excessive
stress or even failure at those points. Discontinuities can cause structural
imbalances, making the system more vulnerable to lateral forces like wind or
earthquakes.
13. What problems can arise from having an undefined structural system in a building?
- An undefined structural system in a building can lead to several problems,
including difficulty in accurately predicting how loads will be distributed, which
can result in unsafe or inefficient designs. Without a clear structural system, the
building may lack adequate support or strength, increasing the risk of failure
under stress, such as during an earthquake or heavy load. Additionally, it can
complicate the construction process, delay project timelines, and lead to higher
costs due to changes or rework.
14. How does the systems limitations affects the building design for earthquake resistance
- System limitations, such as discontinuities, undefined structural systems, and
irregular features, can significantly impact a building's earthquake resistance by
creating weaknesses or inconsistencies in how forces are distributed during
seismic events. Discontinuities, like abrupt changes in the load path, can cause
stress concentrations and make it harder for the structure to absorb and dissipate
seismic forces. Undefined structural systems can result in unpredictable load
distribution, making it difficult to ensure that the building will withstand earthquake
forces effectively. Irregular features, such as asymmetrical shapes or varying
heights, can cause torsional effects, where different parts of the building move
unevenly, increasing the risk of damage or collapse. These limitations require
careful consideration in design to improve the building's ability to withstand
seismic forces and protect its occupants.
15. Is there any possibility that the earthquake load design can be changed during the
construction?
- Yes, it is possible for the earthquake load design to change during construction,
but it typically requires careful review and approval from engineers and
authorities. Changes in the design might occur due to unforeseen site conditions,
updated seismic data, or adjustments in materials or methods. If the original
design is found to be inadequate or if the building’s performance needs to be
adjusted to meet local seismic codes or new regulations, modifications may be
made. However, any changes must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure the
building maintains safety standards and complies with building codes, as altering
the design could affect the structural integrity and earthquake resistance.
16. What is the "Near Source Factor" in the NSCP 2015, and why is it important?
- The Near Source Factor accounts for the increased intensity of seismic shaking
near active earthquake sources (such as fault lines). Buildings near these
sources may need to be designed to resist stronger shaking.
