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Earthquake Structural Analysis NSC2015

The document outlines the factors used in seismic analysis according to the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP 2015), including seismic zone factor, importance factor, soil coefficients, response modification factor, natural period, and base shear. It describes how these factors are applied in structural analysis through methods such as static and dynamic analysis, force distribution, and drift checks, emphasizing the importance of resilience in earthquake-prone areas like the Philippines. A practical example illustrates the application of these factors in designing a 5-story residential building in Metro Manila.

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28 views2 pages

Earthquake Structural Analysis NSC2015

The document outlines the factors used in seismic analysis according to the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP 2015), including seismic zone factor, importance factor, soil coefficients, response modification factor, natural period, and base shear. It describes how these factors are applied in structural analysis through methods such as static and dynamic analysis, force distribution, and drift checks, emphasizing the importance of resilience in earthquake-prone areas like the Philippines. A practical example illustrates the application of these factors in designing a 5-story residential building in Metro Manila.

Uploaded by

kirbymadrid28
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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How Earthquakes Are Considered in Structural Analysis

(Based on NSCP 2015)

1. Factors Used in Seismic Analysis

The National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP 2015) outlines the following factors critical to

analyzing earthquake effects on structures:

- Seismic Zone Factor (Z): Indicates the seismicity level in a specific region. The Philippines is

divided into zones where higher "Z" values represent areas with higher earthquake risks.

- Importance Factor (I): Adjusts the design based on the importance of the structure. For example,

critical buildings like hospitals and schools have higher "I" values to ensure resilience.

- Soil and Site Coefficients (Ca and Cv): Represent how soil conditions at the site amplify seismic

waves. NSCP provides classifications for different soil types (e.g., soft, medium, or rock).

- Response Modification Factor (R): Accounts for the ductility and overstrength of the structural

system. Buildings designed to deform without collapsing (ductile systems) can have higher "R"

values.

- Building's Natural Period (T): A measure of the building's vibration characteristics, dependent on its

height and structural system.

- Base Shear (V): The total horizontal seismic force that the structure must resist. It combines all the

above factors in the formula: V = Z * I * W / R.

2. How These Factors Are Used in Structural Analysis

- Seismic Force Calculation:

- Static Method: The base shear (V) is distributed across the structure's height to simulate

earthquake forces. This is suitable for regular, low-rise buildings.

- Dynamic Analysis: For taller or irregular buildings, methods like response spectrum analysis or

time history analysis are used. These techniques consider the building's natural modes of vibration.
- Distribution of Forces: Forces are distributed floor by floor based on mass and height. Higher floors

experience larger forces due to greater displacement.

- Drift and Deflection Checks: Inter-story drift (relative horizontal movement between floors) is limited

to prevent damage to structural and non-structural components. NSCP Section 208 limits drift to

ensure safety.

- Irregularity Evaluation: The code checks for torsional irregularities, soft-story effects, or weak

columns. Irregular buildings must be reinforced or redesigned to ensure stability.

3. Relevance to the Philippines

- Local Seismic Context: The Philippines is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, with numerous

active faults, including the West Valley Fault, the Philippine Fault System, and subduction zones like

the Manila Trench.

- Design Standards for Resilience: Structures are designed to withstand frequent minor earthquakes

without damage and major earthquakes without collapse.

4. Practical Example

For a 5-story residential building in Metro Manila:

- Seismic Zone (Z): High (Zone 4).

- Soil Type: Soft soil (higher amplification).

- Response Modification Factor (R): Typical for reinforced concrete moment frames (R = 5).

Using these inputs, engineers calculate base shear, perform drift checks, and ensure that the

building's design can absorb energy safely during an earthquake.

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