Importance of Nonlinear Structural Analysis for structural engineers

In the study of structural response to hazardous loads including earthquake and blast, nonlinear analysis of structures has become increasingly important.

Usually, the buildings are usually designed for seismic resistance using elastic analysis; as most may experience significant inelastic deformations under big earthquakes. To determine the realistic behavior of structures under such conditions, Modern performance-based design methods require ways.

With the help of available test data and advancements in computing technologies, Nonlinear Structural Analysis offers the means for calculating structural response even beyond the elastic range, including stiffness and strength deterioration associated with inelastic material behavior as well as large displacements. This suggests that nonlinear analysis can play an important role in the design of new plus existing buildings.

It is not easy to perform nonlinear analysis it involves significantly more effort and also should be approached with specific objectives in mind. Here are some typical instances where nonlinear analysis is applied in structural earthquake engineering practice:

1. Assess and design seismic retrot solutions especially for existing buildings

2. In Designing of new buildings that employ structural materials, systems, or other features that do not conform to current building code requirements;

3.  Assess the representation of buildings for particular owner/stakeholder requirements.

It is necessary to develop the basis for the acceptance with the building code authority at the outset of a project especially if the reason to use a nonlinear analysis is to create a design that would not satisfy the prescriptive building code requirements. However, make sure that the design basis should be clearly defined and agreed upon, outlining in specific terms all significant performance levels and how they will be evaluated.

So, while working on your next project make sure you get the top class, the latest non-linear structural analysis & Structural Engineering Software Programs designed specifically for structural engineers so that you can have better results. Moreover, to get accurate results, you can also check that the tool you are choosing allows structural engineers to study the 3D behavior of structures through both the continuum and discrete stages of loading or not.