Basic Concepts-ETABS

ETABS, SAP2000 & SAFE Training Basic Concepts
Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 2
Basic Design Steps ..................................................................................................................... 2
ETABS, SAP2000 & SAFE ....................................................................................................... 3
Objects & Elements ................................................................................................................... 3
Coordinate Systems ................................................................................................................... 5
The Graphical User Interface (GUI) .......................................................................................... 7
Model Initialization .................................................................................................................... 9
Quick Templates .......................................................................................................... 10
Saving Models ......................................................................................................................... 11
The Right Mouse Button .......................................................................................................... 12
Labels and Unique Names ....................................................................................................... 13
Material Definition................................................................................................................... 14
Section Definition .................................................................................................................... 16
Load Patterns ........................................................................................................................... 21
SEISMIC ANALYSIS ............................................................................................................. 23
Lateral Force Method ................................................................................................... 27
Modal Response Spectrum Analysis ........................................................................... 30
Load Combinations .................................................................................................................. 33
P-Delta Effects ......................................................................................................................... 39
Stiffness Modifiers ................................................................................................................... 41
Unity University 1 of 44 Prepared by: Feysel N.

Introduction
 Real structures cannot be analyzed; they can only be “Load Tested” to determine response.
 We can only analyze a “Model” of the real structure. To be able to do that, we need tools
to “Model the Structure” and to “Analyze the Model”.
 Computer programs like ETABS, SAP2000, SAFE, GEOSLOPE, PLAXIS …etc. are tools
that help us to do these. They use the Finite Element Method (FEM) to analyze the model
you created in their interface.
 Finite Element Method (FEM): is a numerical procedure for solving (partial) differential
equations associated with field problems, with an accuracy acceptable to engineers. The
differential equations are converted into a set of simultaneous equations.
 In FEM, a body is idealized as an assembly of smaller pieces known as, Finite Elements,
with specified nodes. The infinite number of unknowns (Degrees of Freedom or DOF) of
the body is replaced by a finite number of unknowns (DOF) at the nodes.
 Finite Element Analysis (FEA): is a discretized solution to a continuum problem using
FEM. Remember that FEA is an application of the Matrix Stiffness (Displacement) Method
at each node of the element. For example, for Linear-Static analysis, the equilibrium
equation is;
{F} = [K]{U} or
−1
{U} = [K] {F}
{F} = Load vector
[K] = Stiffness Matrix {U} = Displacement vector (Δ&θ)
Basic Design Steps

The general steps to analyze & design a structure in ETABS or any software are listed below.
The terms in the bracket indicate who perform that specific task.
0) Review the real structure (Engineer)
Gather data about the structure. This can be architectural or other drawings, site
investigation report, etc. Based on these data decide; the structural system type, the
preliminary size of structural members, preliminary material grade, the values of live loads
& external dead loads to be applied on each member, parameters for lateral loads (Wind &
earthquake) etc….
1) Create/Modify the structural model (Engineer)
Inside the software, create or modify a model that numerically defines the geometry,
properties, loading, and analysis parameters for the structure.
2) Run analysis of the model (Software)
The software solves the equations (FEA at each node) and calculates deformations, forces,
moments, stresses….
3) Review (Interpret) the results of the analysis (Engineer)
Look at the deformations, forces, moments, stresses… and if there is a problem (unrealistic
result or behavior) try to figure out why it happened and try to fix it.
4) Run, Check and optimize the design of the structure (Engineer + Software)

If results of the analysis make sense, run the design/check of the structural members and
see if the member sizes are adequate. If they are adequate, see if they can be optimized.
Design is usually an iterative process that involve several cycles of steps 1 to 4 (even step-0).
ETABS, SAP2000 & SAFE
ETABS, SAP2000 and SAFE are some of the software packages for structural analysis and
design from Computers and Structures, Inc. their particular use is:
 ETABS: for building structures
 SAP2000: for general structures, including stadiums, towers, industrial plants, offshore
structures, piping systems, buildings, dams, soils, machine parts and many others.
 SAFE: for floor slabs and base mats
In this training, all of the above programs will be used for the design of structures in a project
based, step by step procedure.
In this (and subsequent) documents, a reference may be made to the program ETABS, although
it often applies equally to SAP2000 & SAFE. Some features are not available in every level of
each program. In that case, a text will be shown refering to the program to which it is applicable.
Objects & Elements
 The physical structural members in a structural model are represented by Objects.
 Using the graphical user interface, you “draw” the geometry of an object, then “assign”
properties and loads to the object to completely define the model of the physical member.
 For analysis purposes, ETABS converts each object into one or more “conceptual
component” called Element.
 When you run an analysis, ETABS automatically converts your object-based model into an
element-based model that is used for analysis. This element-based model is called the
analysis model, and it consists of traditional finite elements and joints (nodes). Results of
the analysis are reported back on the object-based model.
 There are 3 type of elements in ETABS. They are;1D, 2D & 3D (only SAP2000).
1D Elements (Line type) 2D Elements (Area type) 3D Elements (Solid type)
 For 1D elements, the element matrix is exact & the solution is also exact (results are exact).
 For 2D and 3D elements, the element matrix is approximate and exact solution cannot be
achieved. The more elements you use (fine mesh), the higher accuracy you achieve.
In the ETABS, the following object/element types are available:
1) Point objects
2) Line objects
3) Area objects
4) Solid objects (only SAP2000)
Each object type & which structural member/object they are used to model are discussed below.

1) Point objects
Joint objects: Joints (also known as nodes) are the fundamental part of every structural model.
Some of the uses and properties of joint objects are listed below.
 All elements are connected to the structure (and hence to each other) at the joints.
 A joint must exist at the intersection of any element of any type with another element.
 Joints are automatically created at the ends of each Line object and at the corners of each
Area object and Solid object.
 Automatic meshing of objects will create additional joints corresponding to any elements
that are created.
 The structure is supported at the joints using Restraints and/or Springs.
 All loads and masses applied to the elements are actually transferred to the joints.
 Joints are the primary locations in the structure at which the displacements are known (the
supports) or are to be determined.
 There are six degrees of freedom at every joint; three translations and three rotations. These
displacement components are aligned along the local coordinate system of each joint.
 Joints can also be added by the user for different purpose. ETABS considers drawn joints
to be Special Joints. This designation is significant because ETABS removes a joint that is
not connected to other objects or if it is not used for joint load assignments, unless the joint
is designated to be a Special Joint.
 Special joints are allowed to exist in the model with no objects connected to them. Joints
that are imported are also designated as Special Joints by default.
Grounded (one-joint) link/support objects: They are used to model special support behavior
such as isolators, dampers, gaps, multi-linear springs, and more.
2) Line objects
Frame objects: Used to model frame members (beams, columns & braces) and truss members.
Tendon objects: Used to model objects that can be embedded inside other objects to represent
the effect of Prestressing and post-tensioning.
Cable objects (only SAP2000): a highly nonlinear element used to model the catenary behavior
of slender cables under their own self-weight.
Connecting (two-joint) link/support objects: Used to model special member behavior such as
isolators, dampers, gaps, multi-linear springs, and more. Unlike frame, cable, and tendon
objects, connecting link objects can have zero length.
3) Area objects
Area objects are classified based on their behavior as; Plane & Shell.
Plane: have Membrane property (capable of supporting in-plane-forces but not moments). It
is used to model plane-stress and plane-strain behavior in two-dimensional solids.
Shell: have Membrane + Plate property (capable of supporting forces and moments). It is used
to model walls, floors, and other thin-walled members.
4) Solid objects (only SAP2000): Thay are 3D elements that are used to model 3D objects.

Coordinate Systems
Coordinate systems are used to locate different parts of the structural model and to define the
directions of loads, displacements, internal forces, and stresses.
All coordinate systems in the model are defined with respect to a single global coordinate
system (GCS). Each object in the model has its own local coordinate system (LCS). In addition,
you may create alternate coordinate systems that are used to define locations and directions.
1) Global Coordinate System (GCS)
The properties of the Global Coordinate System (GCS) are listed below.
 The GCS is a three-dimensional, right-handed, rectangular coordinate system.
 All other coordinate systems in the model are defined with respect to the GCS.
 ETABS always assumes that Z is the vertical axis, with +Z being upward.
 Local coordinate systems are defined with respect to this upward direction.
 Self-weight loading always acts downward, in the –Z direction.
 The downward (–Z) direction is often called GRAVITY direction for load application.
 The XY plane is horizontal.
 The primary horizontal direction is in the +X direction.
 Angles in the horizontal plane are measured from the positive half of the X axis, with
positive angles appearing counterclockwise when you are looking down at the XY plane.
2) Local Coordinate Systems (LCS)
Each object/element in the structural model has its own local coordinate system for defining
properties, loads, and for interpreting output for that object.
The axes of the local coordinate systems are denoted 1, 2, and 3. They are color coded and the
default colors are 1 = Red, 2 = Green & 3 = Blue. Remember R-G-B = 1-2-3.
In general, the local coordinate systems vary depending on the type of object. The default
orientatin of the local axes for each object type are discussed below.
A) Joint Object Local Axes
 For joints; the 1, 2, and 3 axes are identical to the global X, Y, and Z axes, respectively.
B) Frame Object Local Axes
 When a frame object is drawn, the first end joint created is the "End I" or the "Start" of the
object, and the second end joint is the "End J" or the "End" of the object.
 Axis 1 is always the longitudinal axis of the element; positive direction being directed from
End I to End J. Axis 1 is always located at the centroid of the cross section & connects joint
I to J.

 An element is considered to be vertical if the sine of the angle between the local 1 axis and
the Z axis is less than 10–3.
 The default orientation of the local 2 and 3 axes is determined by the relationship between
the local 1 axis and the global Z axis.
 The local 1-2 plane is taken to be vertical, i.e., parallel to the Z axis.
 The local 2 axis points vertically upward for horizontal elements.
 The local 2 axis is horizontal along the global +X direction for vertical elements.
 The local 3 axis is horizontal, i.e., it lies in the XY plane.
C) Area Object Local Axes
 Area elements may have either of the following shapes:
Quadrilateral, defined by four joints j1, j2, j3, and j4.
Triangular, defined by three joints j1, j2, and j3.
 The joints j1 to j4 define the corners of the reference surface of the area element. The
reference surface is the mid-surface of the element.
 Local axis 3 is always normal to the plane of the area element. This axis is directed toward
you when the path of the joints j1-j2-j3 appears counterclockwise.
 The local 1 and 2 axes lie in the plane of the element.
 The element is considered to be horizontal if the sine of the angle between the local 3 axis
and the Z axis is less than 10–3.
 The default orientation of the local 1 and 2 axes is determined by the relationship between
the local 3 axis and the global Z axis.
 The local 3-2 plane is taken to be vertical, i.e., parallel to the Z axis.
 The local 2 axis points vertically upward (+Z) for vertical elements.
 The local 2 axis is along the global +Y direction for horizontal elements
 The local 1 axis is horizontal, i.e., it lies in the XY plane
 For shell objects, to get a readable moment;
 Axis 1 have to be parallel to each other
 Axis 2 have to be parallel to each other
 Axis 3 must point in the same direction.

The Graphical User Interface (GUI)

The figure below shows the graphical user interface of ETABS along with the name of each
components of the interface (most components are similar in SAP2000 & SAFE). Each
component is discussed below.
1) Main Title Bar: The main title bar includes the program and model names. The main title
bar is highlighted when the program is in use.
2) Menu Bar: The menu bar contains the program's menus from which various commands can
be selected to perform specific actions.
In ETABS, you manage the File, Edit the model, change the View, Define properties or load
patterns and cases, Draw something new in the model, Select that something, Assign
properties or loads, Analyze the model, Display analysis results for checking, Design the
structure, apply various Options to achieve the desired outcome with optimum effort, utilize
plugin Tools to customize the program, and seek Help when you need it.
Those actions are the basis for the program menu structure. Thus, familiarity with the menu
commands and their function is key to expanding your ability to use ETABS.
3) Toolbars: Toolbars are made up of buttons. These buttons provide "single-click" access to
almost all commands that are available in the Menu. If you point the mouse over a toolbar
button, you will see a tooltip (short description of the button's function in a small text box).
4) Model Explorer: The model explorer allows easy access to model definition data, including
property forms, load definitions, and object forms, as well as analysis, design, and detailing
results in graphical, tabular, and report formats using a hierarchical tree structure. These
items are grouped in 4 tabs in the Model Explorer, namely Model, Display, Tables & Reports.
Trees may be expanded by clicking on a node, and a right click on a "leaf" in the tree will

bring up a context-sensitive menu (items shown in bold in the menu are the default action
that will occur if the user double clicks on the leaf). Sections may be assigned to a model by
simply dragging the section from the tree onto a valid object in the model. This drag-&-drop
technique can significantly speed up model revisions.
To see the Model Explorer (if it is not visible), go to “Options”  “Show Model Explorer”.
5) Display Windows & Title Tab: A display window shows the geometry of the model and
may also include displays of properties, loading, and analysis or design results. There is no
limit on the number of windows that may be displayed. The display title tab is located at the
top of the display window. The display title tab is highlighted when the associated display
window is active. The text in the display title tab typically includes the type and location of
the view in the associated display window.
6) Working Plane Drop-Down List: This drop-down list appears in a 3D View display
window when a drawing command is active. Drawing objects in a 3D view is restricted to
the story (working plane) selected from this drop-down list, unless snaps are used.
7) Status Bar: The status bar is located at the bottom of the main window. Text describing the
current status of the program is displayed on the left side of the status bar.
8) Mouse Pointer Position Coordinates: The mouse pointer position coordinates are
displayed on the right-hand side of the status bar. A window does not need to be active for
the mouse pointer position coordinates to be displayed. It is only necessary that the mouse
pointer be over the window.
9) Drawing & Selection Drop-Down List: This drop-down list is on the right side of the status
bar. The three options in the drop-down list are One Story, All Stories, and Similar Stories.
With One Story, an object is created only at the story level on which it is drawn. With All
Stories, an object drawn creates objects at all story levels in the model at the same plan
location. When doing an object select with All Stories, any object selected results in all other
objects at the same plan location being selected at all story levels. With Similar Stories, an
object drawn creates objects at all similar story levels in the model at the same plan location,
and an object selected results in all other objects in the same plan location being selected at
similar story levels.
10) Coordinate System Drop-Down List: This drop-down list on the right side of the status
bar allows the switching of coordinate/grid systems between the Global Coordinate System
and user-defined Grid Systems. The selected system affects both the orientation of the model
as well as the mouse pointer position coordinates.
11) Current Units: The current units are displayed in a pop-up list at the far right-hand side
of the status bar. These units can be changed at any time during the modeling process.
The Display Units selected when a model is created are permanent and cannot be changed.
However, this is not of any real consequence to the user because if metric units are used in a
model created using US units, the metric units will always be converted to/from US units.
Similarly, if the model was created using metric units and at some point for some reason US
units are used, ETABS will convert the US units to metric units.

Although any units may be used at any time while working with the model, it is important to
select an appropriate unit set before starting the model to reduce the possibility of round-off
error.
Note that the model will always open in the originally specified system (US or Metric). Thus,
the important factor is to recognize which units are being used when entering model data or
reading program output.
Model Initialization
There are different ways of starting a new project model (Model Initialization). Each method
is discussed below.
To start a new model, click the “New Model” button or press “ctrl+N” or go to “File”  “New
Model” to display the Model Initialization form shown below.
 Model Initialization can be used to choose an option to determine: System of Units,

Preferences (Steel section database, Design codes, etc.), Properties (Materials, Frame
sections; Slab, Deck & Wall sections, Diaphragms, etc.), Definitions (Functions, load
patterns, load cases, load combinations, etc.)
 You can set/define everything except the grids, objects, and assignments to the objects.
There are three options on the Model Initialization form:
1) Use Saved User Default Settings
 This option will start a new model based on settings saved by the user (if there is any).
 If this is the first time ETABS is being used on the computer or if you reset the user settings,
there will be no saved user default settings; therefore, in such cases, it is recommended that
you use option-3 (“Use Built-In Settings With”) to start your model. Then, define all
relevant information in that model and this information can be saved as a default user
setting.
Note: To save The User Default Settings, go to “Options”  “Save User Default Settings”.
2) Use Settings from a Model File
 Selecting this option & clicking OK will display a form that can be used to locate the .edb
file that will be used to obtain the settings upon which the new model will be based on.
 This method is generally preferable if sets of properties, analysis, and design definitions
are to be used among projects with common characteristics.

 If you often design similar buildings, create as many .edb files as necessary and save them
to a suitable location.
 Note that using an existing model as the starting point for a new model is not "importing"
a model. Basing a new model on an existing model means that definitions and settings (i.e.,
preferences) are being shared from one model to another. This differs from importing a
model because an imported model can include objects and their assignments.
 When you begin a new model, you can save more than 40% of the modeling time by using
the definitions from existing model (option-2) or saved user default settings (option-1).
 Option-1 & 2 are similar, but option-1 makes the storage (presence) of an entire model file
unnecessary.
3) Use Built-In Settings With
 This option is preferable if the the project you are modeling is unique or if you don’t have
Saved User Settings or a model file to start with.
 If this option is used, specify the Display Units, the default Steel Section Database, and the
codes for design of steel and concrete members.
 In this option, the model will be started with basic Built-In (Default) definitions & settings.
Quick Templates
After model initialization, clicking the “OK” button on the Model Initialization form will
display the New Model Quick Templates form shown below.
The New Model Quick Templates form is used to specify the layout/geometry and type of the
model. There are three categories in the form and each are discussed below.
1) Grid Dimensions (Plan)
 Specify the Number, Spacing & Label of the grid lines. You can use “Uniform Grid
Spacing” or “Custom Grid Spacing” option.

 Regardless of which option is used to initially define grid lines, the grid lines can be edited
and additional coordinate/grid systems can be defined later in the model.
2) Story Dimensions
 Define the number and height of the stories in the model. You can use “Simple Story Data”
or “Custom Story Data” option.
 Regardless of which option is used to initially define the stories, they can be edited later in
the model.
3) Add Structural Objects
You can start the model with or without a grid or structural objects drawn as discussed below.
A) Blank
 The model will start without any grid, but with the specified story data.
 This option may be ideal when Importing a model from another program file to start a new
model.
B) Grid Only
 A grid system will be added to the model without any structural objects.
 You can then build the model manually (using the Draw and Edit menu commands to draw
the structural objects) or
 You can use the Import commands to import and copy geometry data from other programs
and other ETABS.edb files.
C) Template models
 There are six built-in templates; Four concrete building templates (Flat Slab, Flat Slab with
Perimeter Beams, Waffle Slab, Two Way or Ribbed Slab), and Two steel building
templates (Steel Deck, Staggered Truss).
 Use one of these templates to add structural objects to your model.
 Template models are the simplest, most convenient and quickest way to start a model. They
automatically add structural objects with appropriate properties to the model.
 It is highly recommended that you start your models using templates whenever possible.
 When one of the template buttons is chosen, the Structural Geometry and Properties form
will appear for that template. The Structural Geometry and Properties form typically
contains areas for specifying structure data and loads.
Saving Models
When you save a project model for the first time or when you save it under a different name
(Save as), you will be asked to specify a directory (where to save it) and a file name (what to
call the project).
Keep in mind the following two tips for an efficient and neat file organization scheme.
 Make it a habit to create a folder in your work directory (E.g. My Documents/ETABS
Projects/XYZ Project)
 When you start a new project or save an existing project with a different name, create a
folder and name the folder with the same name as your project.

It is highly recommended that you make it a habit to save your model file early and often. This
helps minimize the lost work that may occur as a result of any power failures, computer
malfunctions or unforeseen software behavior.
The “Options”  “Auto Save Model” command can be used to specify that the model be saved
automatically.
When a model file is saved, ETABS actually saves two different files. It saves both an ETABS
database file in a binary format with an .EDB extension and a text file with a .$et extension.
Both files have the same name, but with different extensions. The .EDB database file is the
primary file used by ETABS because it contains all information about the model. When an
existing ETABS.EBD file is opened, the program automatically saves a copy of this binary file
with an extension of .ebk as a backup.
When the analysis is run, additional files will be created in the same location.
The Right Mouse Button
The right mouse button (Right Click) has the following uses in ETABS. For all other mouse
functions, use the left mouse button.
Clicking the right mouse button displays a drop-down list of commands, or accesses
information forms or design details, depending on where and when the button is clicked.
 Right click on the list and sub-list of the Model Explorer to access an action or a menu of
actions.
 Right click the spreadsheet area of the Story Data form to display a drop-down list of
commands that can be used to copy and paste data on the form; add or delete a story in the
model; and set story names to default names.
 If nothing is on display in the active window, right clicking on an object displays an object
information form.
 If analysis results is on display in the active window, right clicking on a relevant object
displays a window showing detailed analysis results for that specific object, if applicable.
 If design results is on display in the active window, right clicking on a relevant object
displays a window showing detailed design results for that specific object, if applicable.
 Right click in the background (not on an object) of a display window to access a menu of
selected commands that include the following:
 Add/Modify Grids:- Displays the Edit Story and Grid Systems Data form.

 Glue Joints to Grids:- "Glues" the joints of objects to the grid line so that when the grid
line is moved, the joints move too.
 Lock On Screen Grid System Edit:- This is a toggle that locks or unlocks on-screen
editing of the grid system.
 Set Grid System Visibility:- Toggles the display of the grid system on or off.
 Show Selected Objects Only:- Eliminates all objects from the on screen display, except
for the selected object.
 Invert Visibility of Objects:- If objects are visible in the active window when this
command is clicked, they will become invisible. Conversely, if objects are not shown
in the active window when this command is clicked, for example after the use of the
Show Selected Object only command, those hidden objects will become visible and the
selected objects will become hidden.
 Hide Selected Objects:- The selected objects will be hidden from view.
 Restore Visibility of Previous Selection:- The previously selected objects will be visible.
This command undoes the action of the Hide Selected Objects command.
 Show All Objects:- All hidden objects will be shown.
 Snap Options:- Displays the Snap Options form.
 Draw Using Snap Only:- This is a toggle that restrict the cursor to snap only to those
points that are set in the snap options setting when you are in a draw mode.
 Graphics Preferences:- Displays the Graphics Preferences form.
Labels and Unique Names
 Every object is identified by its location in plan, and this is called the Label.
 Objects in different stories that have the same location in plan usually have the same label.
This label is assigned by ETABS, not by the user.
 For example, there may be Joints 1 to 10, beams B1 to B21, columns C1 to C10, floors F1
to F6, diaphragm D1, and so forth, on every story. Some stories may have objects with
additional labels.
 The label is not editable, but it may change automatically; for example, if B4 is deleted on
every story, beams B5 to B10 become B4 to B9.
 Every object has a name that is unique within the model for each type object (joint, frame,
shell, link, diaphragm). Note that frame names are unique over the set of beams, columns
and braces, and shell names are unique of the set of floors and walls.
 The unique name is assigned automatically when the object is created, but it can be changed
by the user.
 The unique name of an object does not change automatically when other objects are deleted.
Unique names are particularly useful in the Open API.
 For most purposes in ETABS, an object is identified by the Story, the Label, and the Unique
Name.

Material Definition
 The material property definitions are used in defining the structural objects (frame sections,
tendon sections, Wall Sections).
 The material types in ETABS include; Steel, Concrete, Aluminum, Cold Formed Steel,
Rebar, Tendon, Masonry and “Other” (material other than these e.g. Timber).
 Materials are not applied directly to structural members, instead they are applied to the
frame section, slab section, wall section, etc ….
 Materials are NOT assigned to joints or to link elements.
Go to “Define”  “Material Properties” to display the Define Materials form shown below.
The Define Materials form can be used to;

 Define new material
 Edit or Review an existing material
 Delete a material (you can’t delete a material that is currently in use)
How to define concrete & Rebar material is discussed below.
1) Concrete
To define a concrete as per EBCS, follow these steps.
 Click the “Add New Material” button to display the Add New Material Property form.
 Choose the following from their respective drop-down list.
Region = Europe
Material Type = Concrete
Standard = EN 1992-1-1 per EN 206-1
Grade = …choose the grade you want to use from the list… example C20/25.
 Click “OK”. The Material Property Data form appears.

 In the Material Property Data form, review or edit (if necessary) the data for the new
material. Example, change the “Weight per Unit Volume” from 24.9926 to 25 kN/m3.
 Click the “Modify/Show Material Property Design Data” button and notice the value of fck.
 Click “OK” & “OK” to return to the Define Materials form.
 If you want to add another grade, repeat the above steps, otherwise click “OK” to leave.
2) Rebar
To define a reinforcement bar grade as per EBCS, follow these steps.
 Click the “Add New Material” button to display the Add New Material Property form.
 Choose the following from their respective drop-down list.
Region = Europe
Material Type = Rebar
Since there are no pre-defined rebar grades for Europe, we have to input the parameters.
 Click “OK”. The Material Property Data form appears.
 In the Material Property Data form, edit the data as follows (e.g. let the grade is S-300);
Material Name = S-300
Weight per unit volume = 77 kN/m3
Modulus of Elasticity, E = 200,000 MPa
 Click the “Modify/Show Material Property Design Data” button and edit as follows;

Grade = S-300
Minimum Yield Strength, fy = 300 Mpa …………. This is fyk.
Minimum Tensile Strength, fu = 360 MPa
Expected Yield Strength, fye = 330 MPa
Expected Tensile Strength, fue = 396 Mpa
Note that the Minimum Yield Strength (fy = fyk) is the only value that is needed for normal
design. The “expected” yield stress and tensile strength are also called the “effective” yield
stress or tensile strengths. These effective values are needed for certain cases (for example,
AISC 341 seismic detailing calculations) when the yield or tensile strength is used to calculate
demand forces on members or connections.
 Click “OK” & “OK” to return to the Define Materials form.
 If you want to add another rebar grade, select the previously defined rebar material and
click the “Add Copy of Material” button. Then edit the values in a similar manner.
 Click the “OK” button on the Define Materials form when you finish.
Section Definition
How to define Frame (beam & column), Slab and Wall sections is discussed below.
1) Frame
As an example let us define a 250x400 rectangular beam section and a 400x400 square column
section. Both are made up of a C20/25 concrete and S-300 rebar grade.
A) Beam
 Go to “Define”  “Section Properties”  “Frame Sections” to display the Frame
Properties form shown below.
 Click the “Add New Property” button to display the Frame Property Shape Type form.

 Click the “Rectangular Concrete” button in the Frequently Used Shape Types category or
select “Concrete Rectangular” from the Section Shape drop-down list and click “OK”.
 The Frame Section Property Data form shown below will appear. Here specify;
Property Name = FB25x40
Material = C20/25
Depth = 400
Width = 250
 Click the “Modify/Show Rebar” button and specify reinforcement data as follows.
Design Type = M3 design only (Beam)
Rebar Material = Select defined Rebar material for main & shear rebars.
Cover to rebar center = d '  cov s  0.5 (assuming single row of rebar)
 Click “OK” & “OK” to return to the Frame Properties form.
If you want to define another beam section, you can use the “copy” of this section as follows
 Select the previously defined Beam section and click the “Add Copy of Property” button.
 Edit the Property Name and any other appropriate data.

The reinforcement information that you specify for concrete beams are discussed below.
Cover to Longitudinal Rebar Group Centroid: - This is specified at the top and bottom of the
beam. The top cover is measured from the top of the beam to the centroid of the top longitudinal
reinforcing. The bottom cover is measured from the bottom of the beam to the centroid of the
bottom longitudinal reinforcing.
Reinforcement Area Overwrites for Ductile Beams: - These are specified areas of longitudinal
rebar that occur at the top and bottom of the left and right ends of the beam. These overrides
are used by ETABS as follows:
 When the design shear in a concrete beam is to be based on provided longitudinal
reinforcement (that is, the shear design is based on the moment capacity of the beam),
ETABS compares the calculated required reinforcement with that specified in the
reinforcement overwrites and uses the larger value to determine the moment capacity on
which the shear design is based.
 When the minimum reinforcing in the middle of a beam is to be based on some percentage
of the reinforcing at the ends of the beam, ETABS compares the calculated required
reinforcement at the ends of the beam with that specified in the reinforcement overwrites
and uses the larger value to determine the minimum reinforcing in the middle of the beam.
 When the shear design of columns is to be based on the maximum moment that the beams
can deliver to the columns, ETABS compares the calculated required reinforcement with
that specified in the reinforcement overwrites and uses the larger value to determine the
moment capacity of the beam.
B) Column
 Click the “Add New Property” button to display the Frame Property Shape Type form.
 Click the “Rectangular Concrete” button in the Frequently Used Shape Types category or
select “Concrete Rectangular” from the Section Shape drop-down list and click “OK”.
 The Frame Section Property Data form shown below will appear. Here specify;
Property Name = Co40x40
Material = C20/25
Depth = 400
Width = 400
4
3

 Click the “Modify/Show Rebar” button and specify the following data.
Design Type = P-M2-M3 design (Column)
Rebar Material = Select defined Rebar material for main & shear rebars.
Longitudinal Bars
Clear Cover for Confinement Bars = cover
Number of Longitudinal Bars Along 3-dir Face
Number of Longitudinal Bars Along 2-dir Face
Longitudinal Bar Size and area
Corner Bar Size and area
Confinement Bars
Confinement Bar Size and area
Longitudinal Spacing of Confinement Bars (Along 1-Axis)
Number of Confinement Bars in 3-dir
Number of Confinement Bars in 2-dir
If you want to define another column section, you can use the “copy” of this section.
 When you finish defining all frame sections, click the “OK” button on the Frame Properties
form to complete frame section definition.
The reinforcement information that you specify for concrete columns are discussed below.
Configuration of Reinforcement: Here you can specify rectangular or circular arrangement.
You can if desired put circular arrangement in a rectangular column or put rectangular
arrangement in a circular column.
Confinement bars type: If you have specified a rectangular configuration of reinforcement then
the only choice available to you here is ties. If you have specified a circular configuration of
reinforcement, then you have an option of either ties or spiral for the confinement bars.
Clear Cover for Confinement Bars: This is the distance from the edge of the column to the
outer face of the confinement bar. In the special case of rectangular arrangement in a circular
column, the cover is taken to be the minimum distance from the edge of the column to the
confinement bar.
Number of Longitudinal Bars:
 3-dir Face: This is the number of longitudinal bars (including corner rebar) on the two
faces of a rectangular column that are parallel to the local 3 axis of the section.
 2-dir Face: This is the number of longitudinal bars (including corner rebar) on the two
faces of a rectangular column that are parallel to the local 2 axis of the section.
For circular column, Number of Longitudinal Bars is the total number of bars in the section.
Longitudinal Bar Size and Area: This is the specified size of reinforcing steel for the section.
Only one bar size can be specified for a given concrete frame section property.
Corner Bar Size and Area: Use this option if you want to specify the rebar at the corners of
the section separately.

Confinement Bar Size and Area: This is the specified size of confinement bars for the section.
Only one confinement bar size can be specified for a given concrete frame section property.
Longitudinal Spacing of Confinement Bars (Along 1-Axis): This is the spacing of the
confinement bars.
Number of Confinement Bars:
 3-dir: This is the number of confinement bars in the local 3 axis direction of the section.
 2-dir: This is the number of confinement bars in the local 2 axis direction of the section.
Check/Design: Specify whether the Concrete Frame Design postprocessor is to check or design
the reinforcement.
 Reinforcement to be Checked: If you specify this option, all information in the
Reinforcement Data form is used.
 Reinforcement to be Designed: If you specify this option, all information in the
Reinforcement Data form is used except the bar size, which is ignored and the total
required steel area is calculated. For design the configuration of reinforcement, lateral
reinforcement and cover is used.
If reinforcing in a concrete column frame section property that has been defined using the
Section Designer utility is being specified, the Concrete Frame Design postprocessor checks
the column for the specified reinforcing or designs new reinforcing, depending on the option
selected when the section was specified on the SD Section Data form.
2) Slab
As an example let us define a 200 mm thick slab made up of a C20/25 concrete.
 Go to “Define”  “Section Properties”  “Slab Sections”
 Click the “Add New Property” button. In the Slab Property Data form specify;
Property Name = SLAB20
Material = C20/25
Modeling Type = Shell-Thin
Type = Slab
Thickness = 200
 Click “OK” & “OK” to complete slab section definition.

3) Shear Wall
As an example let us define a 200 mm thick shear wall made up of a C20/25 concrete.
 Go to “Define”  “Section Properties”  “Wall Sections”
 Click the “Add New Property” button. In the Wall Property Data form, specify;
Property Name = SW20
Material = C20/25
Modeling Type = Shell-Thin
Thickness = 200
 Click “OK” & “OK” to complete wall section definition.

Load Patterns
A "Load Pattern" consists of a spatial distribution of applied loads (and/or displacements,
temperatures, …) which act upon the structure.
Load patterns by themselves do not create any response (deformation, shear, moment…). A
load case must be defined to apply the load (ETABS automatically creates a load case for each
load pattern that is defined).
 Go to “Define”  “Load Patterns” to display the Define Load Patterns form shown below.
By default, two load patterns named “Dead” and “Live” are already defined.
To add a new load, specify its name, type, self-weight multiplier & Auto Lateral Load (only if
the Type is seismic, wind or Notional) then click the “Add New Load” button.
Set the self-weight multiplier to 1 for the load named “Dead” only. This indicates that this load
pattern will automatically include the self-weight for all members. All others load patterns
should have a self-weight multiplier of 0.

As an example, let us define two additional load patterns as detailed below.
 To define a load for floor finishing and partition load on slabs (Let’s call it SD);
Load = SD
Type = Super Dead
Self-Weight Multiplier = 0
Click “Add New Load” button.
 To define a load for partition wall or cladding load on beams (Let’s call it WALL);
Load = WALL
Type = Super Dead
Click “Add New Load” button.
 Click “OK” when you finish all load pattern definition.

SEISMIC ANALYSIS
Section 4.3.3 of EBCS8 provides the following analysis options for the design of buildings and
for the evaluation of their seismic performance:
1) Lateral Force Method of Analysis (also called Linear Static or Equivalent Static Analysis).
2) Modal Response Spectrum Analysis (also called “Linear Dynamic Analysis”).
3) Non-Linear Static Analysis (commonly known as “Pushover Analysis”).
4) Non-Linear Dynamic Analysis (Time-History or Response-History Analysis).
The first two are linear analysis methods while the others are non-linear analysis methods.
The linear methods of analysis use the design response spectrum, which is essentially the elastic
response spectrum with 5% damping divided by the behaviour factor q. Internal forces due to
the seismic action are taken to be equal to those estimated from the linear analysis; however,
displacements due to the seismic action are taken as equal to those derived from the linear
analysis, multiplied by the behaviour factor q.
In contrast, when a non-linear analysis method is used, both internal forces and displacements
due to the seismic action are taken to be equal to those derived from the non-linear analysis.
The use of a linear method of analysis does not imply that the seismic response will be linear
elastic; it is simply a device for the simplification of practical design within the framework of
force-based seismic design with the elastic spectrum divided by the behaviour factor q.
ETABS is capable of performing any of the seismic analysis options mentioned above. We will
discuss two of the methods; The Lateral Force Method & Modal Response Spectrum Analysis.
Before discussing these methods, we should first discuss and define the following parameters
because both methods use these parameters. The parameters are;
1) Mass Source
2) Modal Load Case
1) Mass Source
The weight of the structure to be used for the calculation of seismic loads is based on the
specified mass of the structure, and is termed mass source in ETABS.
The story weight, Wi at story i, to be taken when calculating the seismic actions should
comprise the full permanent load plus a portion of the variable load (EBCS-8, cl.3.2.4).
Gk , j   Ei Qk ,i EBCS-8, Eq. 3.17
Where  Ei    2i EBCS-8, Eq. 4.2

To calculate the multiplier, ψEi;
First, get the category of the floor from Table 6.1 of EBCS-1.
Get the value of ψ2i from Table A.1.1 of EBCS-0.
Get the value of ϕ from Table 4.2 of EBCS-8.
Note that these factors differ with occupancy category (residential, offices, shops, etc.). Thus,
mass source definition could be different from projects to projects. A work around this issue
would be to define different Live load patterns/cases for each occupancy category in your
default ETABS model template and apply the respective factors in the mass source definition.

To define the seismic mass source;
 Go to “Define”  “Mass Source”. The Mass Source form shown below will appear.
By default, a mass source named “MsSrc1” will be there. Instead of defining a new one, it is
better to modify it. If you want to define a new source or if there is more than one mass source,
make sure your mass source is set as the “Default Mass Source” at the bottom of the form.
 Select the mass source and click the “Modify/Show Mass Source” button. In the Mass
Source Data form, specify the parameters as follows.
 In the Mass Source region; Select “Specified Load Patterns” (uncheck the remaining)
 In the Mass Multipliers for Loads Patterns region;
 Select the load pattern name from the Load Patterns drop-down list.
 Type in an appropriate multiplier in the Multiplier edit box.
For permanent load = 1
For variable load = ϕ×ψ2i
 Click the “Add” button.
 In the Mass Options region; Select “Include Lateral Mass” & “Lump Lateral Mass at Story
Levels” options.
 Click “OK” & “OK” to finish the mass source definition.
The figure below shows a mass definition where there are different separate live load patterns.

2) Modal Load Case
Although defined under load cases, a modal case by itself does not apply any load. Rather, a
modal case defines the type and number of modes to be extracted from the model.
Each modal case results in a set of modes, and each mode consists of a mode shape (normalized
deflected shape) and a set of modal properties, such as period and cyclic frequency.
The dynamic modes of the structure are calculated using either Eigen-vector or Ritz-vector
methods:
 Eigen-vector Analysis: Determines the undamped free-vibration mode shapes and
frequencies of the system, which provide an excellent insight into the behavior of the
building.
 Ritz-vector Analysis: Modes are generated by taking into account the spatial distribution
of the dynamic loading, which yields more accurate results than the use of the same
number of natural mode shapes. Ritz-vector modes do not represent the intrinsic
characteristics of the structure in the same way the natural (eigen-vector) modes do.
Modal analysis results give modal frequencies/period and mode shapes that are primarily used
in Response Spectrum Analysis in ETABS.
In Lateral Force Method, if time period is calculated automatically (see discussion about Time
Period), the fundamental modal periods on the two main orthogonal directions reported from
the modal analysis are used in calculating the base shear for Lateral Force Method.
To set a Modal load case, follow the steps below.
 Go to “Define”  “Load Cases” to display the Load Cases form shown below.
The Load Cases form shows Load Cases for all Load Patterns defined previously and an
additional Load Case named “Modal”.
 Select the load case “Modal” from the list and click the “Modify/Show Load Case” button
to display the Load Case Data form shown below.
 In the form, notice that the Load Case Type/Subtype are set to “Modal” & “Eigen”.
 The parameter we are going to edit is the Maximum Number of Modes. For preliminary
analysis, use a value equal to 3*Number of stories as discussed below.
 Click “OK” & “OK” to accept the changes and leave.

Maximum Number of Modes

According to EBCS8, cl.4.3.3.3.1(2&3), the response of all modes of vibration contributing
significantly to the global response shall be taken into account. This may be deemed to be
satisfied if either of the following can be demonstrated;
 The sum of the effective modal masses for the modes taken into account is ≥ 90% of
the total mass of the structure.
 All modes with effective modal masses > 5% of the total mass are taken into account.
The maximum number of modes specified here should be sufficient to meet the 90% mass
participation requirement by the code.
Assuming the floors (joints at a floor) are modeled as rigid diaphragm, there will be 3 DOF
(Ux, Uy & Rz) per floor. Therefore, for preliminary analysis use;
Maximum Number of Modes = 3*Number of stories

Lateral Force Method

According to EBCS-8, cl.4.3.3.2.1; Lateral Force Method of Analysis can be applied to
buildings whose response is not significantly affected by contributions from modes of vibration
higher than the fundamental mode in each principal direction.
The above requirement is deemed to be satisfied in buildings which fulfil both of the following
conditions.
1) The fundamental periods of vibration, T1, in the two main directions are smaller than;
4T
T1   C Where TC is given in Table 3.2 or Table 3.3 of EBCS-8.
2
2) The building is regular in elevation (EBCS-8, cl.4.2.3.3).
Note: Equivalent Lateral Force Method is NOT the reference method in EBCS8. It is used
because of its simplicity.
Note that the actual forces associated with an automatic static lateral load are not calculated
until an analysis has been run. Thus, the resultant automatic lateral loads cannot be reviewed
until after an analysis has been run.
There are four separate load patterns to be defined for the Lateral Force method. These are
shown in the table below.
Name Direction and Eccentricity Ecc. Ratio
EQXU X Dir + Eccentricity 0.05
EQXD X Dir − Eccentricity 0.05
EQYR Y Dir + Eccentricity 0.05
EQYL Y Dir − Eccentricity 0.05
To define a static seismic load pattern;
 Go to “Define”  “Load Patterns”. In the Define Load Patterns form, specify the data as;
Load = EQXU
Type = Seismic
Auto Lateral Load = EUROCODE8 2004
Click the “Add New Load” button.
 Follow the same procedure to add the remaining three load patterns shown in the table.
After adding all of the seismic load pattern, modify each of them accordingly as follows.
 Select the seismic load pattern you want to modify.
 Click the “Modify Lateral Load” button and then specify the following;
 Direction and Eccentricity = as shown in the table above
 Eccentricity ratio = 0.05
 Time Period = Program Calculated
 Story Range = See “Story Range” info below.
 Ground acceleration = αo (See EBCS-8, Annex-D)

 Spectrum Type = 1 (means it is High seismicity areas, 5.5Hz<M)
 Ground Type = See EBCS-8, Table 3.1. (If not sure, type B or C can be used)
 Behavior Factor, q = See EBCS-8, cl.5.2.2.2 for concrete & cl.6.3.2 for steel buildings.
 Correction Factor, λ = See (EBCS-8, cl.4.3.3.2.2(1Ρ))
λ = 0.85 if T1 ≤ 2TC & the building has more than 2 stories.
λ=1 in all other cases.
 Click “OK” to accept the changes and return to the Define Load Patterns form.
 Follow the same procedure to modify the remaining three load patterns shown in the table.
 Click the “OK” button on the Define Load Patterns form to accept the changes & leave.
The parameters for the seismic load pattern are discussed below.
1) Direction and Eccentricity
Use the direction and eccentricity data to choose the Global X or Global Y direction of the load
and the eccentricity associated with the load pattern for all diaphragms.
Specifying 0.05 (5%) in the eccentricity ratio input will satisfy EBCS-8 requirements regarding
minimum accidental torsion effect that need to be considered.
The eccentricity options have meaning only when diaphragms have been assigned to joint or
shell objects. The program ignores eccentricities where diaphragms are not present.
Where diaphragms are present, the program calculates a maximum width of the diaphragm
perpendicular to the direction of the seismic loading. This width is calculated by finding the
maximum and minimum X or Y coordinates (depending on direction of load considered) of the
joints that are part of the diaphragm constraint and determining the distance between these
maximum and minimum values.
After the appropriate diaphragm width has been determined, the program applies a moment
that is equal to the specified percent eccentricity times the maximum width of the diaphragm
perpendicular to the direction of the seismic loading times the total lateral force applied to the
diaphragm. This moment is applied about the diaphragm center of mass to account for the
eccentricity.

2) Time Period
Three options are provided for the building period (T1) to be used in calculating the automatic
seismic loads. These are: Approximate, Program Calculated, and User Defined.
Approximate: In this case, you will input the value of Ct. The program will calculate the
fundamental period using:
T1  Ct H 3/4 (EBCS-8, Eq. 4.6)
The value of H is determined by the programs from the Story Range input (See below).
Note that Ct is defined as follows (EBCS-8, cl.4.3.3.2.2(3)):
= 0.085 for moment-resisting space steel frames
= 0.075 for moment-resisting space concrete frames
= 0.075 for eccentrically braced steel frames
= 0.05 for all other structures
Alternatively, for structures with concrete or masonry shear walls, Ct can be calculated
using EBCS-8, Eq. 4.7.
Program Calculated: The programs start with the period of the mode calculated to have the
largest participation factor in the direction that loads are being calculated (X or Y).
User Defined: In this case, input a building period, which the programs use in the calculations.
3) Story Range
Choose the Top Story and Bottom Story to specify the elevation range over which the automatic
static lateral loads are to be calculated.
No seismic loads are calculated for the Bottom Story. They are calculated for the first story
above the Bottom Story and for all stories up to and including the Top Story.
The height of the building, H, is measured from the elevation of the Bottom Story Level to the
(top of the) specified Top Story Level.
H  Elev of Top Story Level  Elev of Bottom Story Level
By default, the Bottom Story is the Base of the building and the Top Story is the uppermost
level of the building.
The bottom level would typically be the base level. However, if, for example, a building has
several below-grade levels, and the seismic loads are assumed to be transferred to the ground
at ground level, it may be best to specify the bottom story to be above the base of the building.
In most instances, specify the top story as the uppermost level in the building, typically the
roof. However, in some cases, a lower level may be chosen. For example, if a penthouse is
included in the model, it may be best to calculate the automatic lateral load based on the roof
level, excluding the penthouse roof level, as the top story, and then add in additional user-
defined load to the load case to account for the penthouse.

Modal Response Spectrum Analysis

In EBCS8, Modal Response Spectrum Analysis method is the reference (main) method for the
seismic design of buildings.
This analysis procedure is applicable for the design of buildings without any limitations.
For Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA), you have to first define Response Spectrum Function
as per EBCS8 as follows.
1) Response Spectrum Function
 Go to “Define”  “Functions”  “Response Spectrum” to display the form shown.
 Choose “EUROCODE8-2004” from the Function Type to Add drop-down list and click
the “Add New Function” button.
 In the Function Definition form, specify the following parameters.

 Function Name = …give any sensible name… (let us call it RSFunct)
 Ground acceleration = αo (See EBCS-8, Annex-D)
 Spectrum Type = 1 (means it is High seismicity areas, 5.5Hz<M)
 Ground Type = See EBCS-8, Table 3.1. (If not sure, type B or C can be used)
 Behavior Factor, q = See EBCS-8, cl.5.2.2.2 for concrete & cl.6.3.2 for steel buildings.
 Click “OK” & “OK” to finish the function definition and leave.
Note: If the behavior factor q is different in each direction, you may need to define two response
spectrum functions (let us call them RSFunctX and RSFunctY). For both functions, all
parameters will be the same except the behavior factor q.

After the fuction is defined, create Response Spectrum Load Cases in X & Y direction (let us
call them RSX & RSY) as discussed below.
2) Respose Spectrum Load Case
 Go to “Define”  “Load Cases” to display the Load Cases form shown below.
First, let us define the in the X direction.

 Click the “Add New Case” button to display the Load Case Data form shown below.
 In the Load Case Data form, specify the following parameters.
Load Case Name = …give any sensible name… (let us call it RSX)
Load Case Type = Response Spectrum
 Notice that the form expands when you choose Response Spectrum.
 In the Loads Applied category, click the “Add” button and then specify;
Load Name = U1
Function = choose the function name you defined earlier.
Scale Factor = 9806.65 mm/sec2
 In the Other Parameters category, specify;
Modal Load Case = Modal (the name of the modal load case edited earlier)
Modal Combination Method = CQC (Complete Quadratic Combination)
Directional Combination Type = SRSS (Square Root of the Sum of the Squares)

 At Diaphram Eccentricity, click the “Modify/Show” button and insert 0.05 as the
Eccentricity Ratio and click “OK” to return.
 Click “OK” to finish the definition and return to the Load Cases form.
Next, define for the Y direction as follows.
 In the Load Cases form, select the previously defined Response Spectrum case and click
the “Add Copy of Case” button.
 In the Load Case Data form, change the name … (let us call it RSY).
 In the Loads Applied category, change the applied load name to U2.
 Click “OK” to finish the definition and return to the Load Cases form.
 Click “OK” on the Load Cases form to accept the changes and leave.

Load Combinations
A Load Combination (Combo) is a named combination of the results from Load Cases or other
Load Combinations. Combo results include all displacements and forces at the joints and
internal forces or stresses in the elements.
By default, each Combo produces a pair of values for each response quantity: a maximum and
a minimum. These two values may be equal for certain type of Combos.
Five types of Combos are available in ETABS. The two Combo values (Max & Min) are
calculated as follows:
Linear Add type: The Combo maximum is an algebraic linear combination of the maximum
values for each of the contributing cases. Similarly, Combo minimum is an algebraic linear
combination of the minimum values for each of the contributing cases.
Envelope type: The Combo maximum is the maximum of all of the maximum values for each
of the contributing cases. Similarly, Combo minimum is the minimum of all of the minimum
values for each of the contributing cases.
Absolute Add type: The Combo maximum is the sum of the larger absolute values for each of
the contributing cases. The Combo minimum is the negative of the Combo maximum.
SRSS type: The Combo maximum is the square root of the sum of the squares of the larger
absolute values for each of the contributing cases. The Combo minimum is the negative of the
Combo maximum.
Range type: The Combo maximum is the sum of the positive maximum values for each of the
contributing cases (a case with a negative maximum does not contribute.) Similarly, the Combo
minimum is the sum of the negative minimum values for each of the contributing cases (a
case with a positive minimum does not contribute.)
Only additive Combos of single-valued Load Cases produce a single-valued result, i.e., the
maximum and minimum values are equal. All other Combos will generally have different
maximum and minimum values.
The combination definitions for structures with no prestressing is discussed below.
1) Gravity Load Combinations
The combination equation for ULS in persistent & transient situation is;

j 1
G, j Gk , j   Q,1Qk ,1    Q,i 0,i Qk ,i
i 1
EBCS-0, Eq. 6.10
The combination equation for SLS in normal situation is;

G
j 1
k, j  Qk ,1   0,i Qk ,i
i 1
EBCS-0, Eq. 6.14
For structures where the only variable load is the live load, the above equations becomes;
1.35  Gk  1.5  Qk
Gk  Qk

 Go to “Define”  “Load Combinations” to display the Load Combinations form.
To define the SLS load combination;

 Click the “Add New Combo” button to display the Load Combination Data form.
 Name it COMB-1 and make sure the combination type is “Linear Add”.
 In the Load Name and Scale Factor region; do the following.
Select Dead from the drop-down list & insert 1 as a Scale Factor then click “Add”.
Select SD from the drop-down list & insert 1 as a Scale Factor then click “Add”.
Select WALL from the drop-down list & insert 1 as a Scale Factor then click “Add”.
Select Live from the drop-down list & insert 1 as a Scale Factor.
 Click “OK” to finish the definition and return to the Load Combinations form.
To define the ULS load combination;
 Highlight the previousely defined Combo in the Load Combinations form and click the
“Add Copy of Combo” button to display the Load Combination Data form.
 Name it COMB-2 & change the scale factor to 1.35 (for Dead, SD & WALL) and 1.5 (for
Live). Then click “OK” to finish the definition and return to the Load Combinations form.

2) Seismic Load Combinations
The combination equation for ULS in seismic situation is;
G
j 1
k, j  AEd   2,i Qk ,i
i 1
EBCS-0, Eq. 6.12
The value of ψ2i is given in Table A.1.1 of EBCS-0 for each occupancy category.
Note that the live load multiplier used here is different from the one used in the definition of
the mass source. The mass source is used for the calculation of “Global effects” (such as overall
seismic shear or overturning moment in a storey, etc…) while this equation is used for “Loacl
effects” (the verification of members and sections).
In the above equation, AEd is the design value of the design seismic action. According to
EBCS8 Art. 4.3.3.5, the horizontal components of the seismic action shall be taken as acting
simultaneously. Two options are given to combine the seismic effects;
 The Square Root of the Sum of the Squared values (SRSS method)
E  EX 2  EY 2
 The “0.3 rule” given in Eq. 4.18 & 4.19 of EBCS8.
E  E X  0.3EY
E  0.3E X  EY
Depending on the which seismic analysis method is used and how the seismic components are
combined, the combination definitions are discussed below.
 First, define a “Linear Add” combination (let us call it “EqGrav”) that accounts the gravity
loads part of Equation 6.12. The equation is;
EqGrav = Dead + SD + WALL + ψ2*Live
E.g., if ψ2 = 0.3 (building category A or B), the definition is shown in the figure below.
The combo names shown in the discussions below start with COMB-3 since we already have
COMB-1 & COMB-2 (defined for the non-seismic combinations).

A) RSA Method
Assuming we have defined two response spectrum load cases named RSX & RSY, we can
combine them either using the “0.3 rule” or using the SRSS method.
If we use the “0.3 rule”
The following “Linear Add” combinations should be defined.
COMB-3 = EqGrav + RSX + 0.3RSY
COMB-4 = EqGrav + RSX – 0.3RSY
COMB-5 = EqGrav – RSX + 0.3RSY
COMB-6 = EqGrav – RSX – 0.3RSY
COMB-7 = EqGrav + RSY + 0.3RSX
COMB-8 = EqGrav + RSY – 0.3RSX
COMB-9 = EqGrav – RSY + 0.3RSX
COMB-10 = EqGrav – RSY – 0.3RSX
Alternatively, we can simply define these combos as follows.
 Define two “Absolute Add” type combinations (say Abs(X&0.3Y) and Abs(0.3X&Y)).
Abs(X&0.3Y) = RSX + 0.3RSY
Abs(0.3X&Y) = 0.3RSX + RSY
 Then define two “Linear Add” type combos to join the above combos with EqGrav.
COMB-3 = EqGrav + Abs(X&0.3Y)
COMB-4 = EqGrav + Abs(0.3X&Y)

If we use the SRSS method;
 Define an “SRSS” type combination (say SRSS(X&Y)).
SRSS(X&Y) = RSX + RSY
 Then define a “Linear Add” type combo to join the above combo with EqGrav.
COMB-3 = EqGrav + SRSS(X&Y)
B) Lateral Force Method

Assuming we have four Auto seismic load patterns named EQXU, EQXD, EQYR & EQYL;
the following “Linear Add” type combos should be defined.
COMB-3 = EqGrav + EQXU + 0.3EQYR
COMB-4 = EqGrav + EQXU – 0.3EQYR
COMB-5 = EqGrav – EQXU – 0.3EQYR
COMB-6 = EqGrav – EQXU + 0.3EQYR
COMB-7 = EqGrav + 0.3EQXU + EQYR
COMB-8 = EqGrav + 0.3EQXU – EQYR
COMB-9 = EqGrav – 0.3EQXU – EQYR
COMB-10 = EqGrav – 0.3EQXU + EQYR
COMB-11 = EqGrav + EQXD + 0.3EQYR
COMB-12 = EqGrav + EQXD – 0.3EQYR
COMB-13 = EqGrav – EQXD – 0.3EQYR
COMB-14 = EqGrav – EQXD + 0.3EQYR
COMB-15 = EqGrav + 0.3EQXD + EQYR
COMB-16 = EqGrav + 0.3EQXD – EQYR

COMB-17 = EqGrav – 0.3EQXD – EQYR
COMB-18 = EqGrav – 0.3EQXD + EQYR
COMB-19 = EqGrav + EQXU + 0.3EQYL
COMB-20 = EqGrav + EQXU – 0.3EQYL
COMB-21 = EqGrav – EQXU – 0.3EQYL
COMB-22 = EqGrav – EQXU + 0.3EQYL
COMB-23 = EqGrav + 0.3EQXU + EQYL
COMB-24 = EqGrav + 0.3EQXU – EQYL
COMB-25 = EqGrav – 0.3EQXU – EQYL
COMB-26 = EqGrav – 0.3EQXU + EQYL
COMB-27 = EqGrav + EQXD + 0.3EQYL
COMB-28 = EqGrav + EQXD– 0.3EQYL
COMB-29 = EqGrav – EQXD – 0.3EQYL
COMB-30 = EqGrav – EQXD + 0.3EQYL
COMB-31 = EqGrav + 0.3EQXD + EQYL
COMB-32 = EqGrav + 0.3EQXD – EQYL
COMB-33 = EqGrav – 0.3EQXD – EQYL
COMB-34 = EqGrav – 0.3EQXD + EQYL
Alternatively, we can simply define these combos as follows.
 Define eight “Absolute Add” type combinations.
Abs(XU&0.3YR) = EQXU + 0.3EQYR
Abs(0.3XU&YR) = 0.3EQXU + EQYR
Abs(XD&0.3YR) = EQXD + 0.3EQYR
Abs(0.3XD&YR) = 0.3EQXD + EQYR
Abs(XU&0.3YL) = EQXU + 0.3EQYL
Abs(0.3XU&YL) = 0.3EQXU + EQYL
Abs(XD&0.3YL) = EQXD + 0.3EQYL
Abs(0.3XD&YL) = 0.3EQXD + EQYL
 Then define eight “Linear Add” type combos to join the above combos with EqGrav.
COMB-3 = EqGrav + Abs(XU&0.3YR)
COMB-4 = EqGrav + Abs(0.3XU&YR)
COMB-5 = EqGrav + Abs(XD&0.3YR)
COMB-6 = EqGrav + Abs(0.3XD&YR)
COMB-7 = EqGrav + Abs(XU&0.3YL)
COMB-8 = EqGrav + Abs(0.3XU&YL)
COMB-9 = EqGrav + Abs(XD&0.3YL)
COMB-10 = EqGrav + Abs(0.3XD&YL)

P-Delta Effects
The P-Delta effect refers specifically to the nonlinear geometric effect of a large tensile or
compressive direct stress upon transverse bending and shear behavior. A compressive stress
tends to make a structural member more flexible in transverse bending and shear, whereas a
tensile stress tends to stiffen the member against transverse deformation.
Consider the frame object shown in the figure below, which is extracted from a story level of
a larger structure. As shown in the figure, there are two types of P-Delta effects;
 Global lateral translation of the frame.
 Local deformation of members within the frame.
The overall global translation of this frame object is indicated by ∆. The local deformation of
the member is shown as δ. The total second order P-Delta effects on this frame object are those
caused by both ∆ and δ.
ETABS can analyze both of those P-Delta effects. However, it is recommended that the global
effect be accounted for in the analysis stage, and the local effect be accounted for in design
using the appropriate factors set out in the code. The ETABS design postprocessors assume
that this has occurred and includes those factors, where appropriate, in the design.
You can define a P-Delta load case using the preset P-Delta option in ETABS as follows.
 Go to “Define”  “P-Delta Options” to display the Preset P-Delta Options form.
 Select the “Iterative - Based on Loads” option from the Automation Method category.
The P-Delta load case is computed from a specified combination of static load patterns.
Assuming the only lateral load is earthquake load (no wind), the load combination will be;
Dead + SD + WALL + ψ2*Live
E.g., if ψ2 = 0.3 (building category A or B), the definition is shown in the figure below.

 In the Load Name and Scale Factor region; do the following.
Select Dead from the drop-down list & insert 1 as a Scale Factor then click “Add”.
Select SD from the drop-down list & insert 1 as a Scale Factor then click “Add”.
Select WALL from the drop-down list & insert 1 as a Scale Factor then click “Add”.
Select Live from the drop-down list & insert 0.3 as a Scale Factor then click “Add”.
 Click “OK” to finish the definition leave.

After setting the Preset P-Delta Options, check that the other load cases are using the stiffness
of Preset P-Delta Options as its initial stiffness as follows.
 Go to “Define”  “Load Cases” to display the Load Cases form.
 Select the one of the load (say Dead) from the list and click the “Modify/Show Load Case”
button to display the Load Case Data form shown below.
 Notice that the “Use Preset P-Delta Settings” options says “iterative based on loads”.
 Close the form and leave the Load Case form when you are done.

Stiffness Modifiers
Stiffness modifiers can be used to simulate various real life scenarios in the model. Here, how
to simulate cracked section properties of concrete members is discussed.
According to EBCS-8, cl.4.3.1(7); unless a more accurate modelling of the cracked member is
performed, the elastic flexural & shear stiffness can be taken to be equal to 50% of the
corresponding stiffness of the uncracked member, neglecting the presence of the reinforcement.
Torsion in beams, columns or bracings is almost irrelevant for their earthquake resistance.
Therefore, the effective torsional rigidity of members should be assigned a very small value.
In ETABS, these properties can be set using the stiffness modifiers.
 Note that the modification factors affect only the analysis properties. They do not affect the
design properties.
 Modification factors can be defined as part of section properties or they can be assigned
directly to objects.
Note: When modification factors are assigned directly to an object that also has modification
factors defined as part of its section properties, the two factors are multiplied. Therefore, it is
intended that modification factors be specified using the section property definition or object
assignment, not both.
A) Frames
For frames (beams and columns), the stiffness modifiers are;
Shear-2 = Shear-3 = 0.5 ………… for shear stiffness
Torsion = 0.1 ………… for torsional stiffness
Moments of Inertia; I2 = I3 = 0.5 ………… for bending stiffness
To assign the modifiers for beam and column objects;
 Go to “Select”  “Select”  “Object Type” to display the Select by Object Type form.
 Highlight Columns and Beams and click the “Select” button. Then click the “Close” button.
 Go to “Assign”  “Frame”  “Property Modifiers” to display Property Modifiers form.
 Insert the values shown and click “OK”.

B) Shells
Shells have both membrane & plate properties. Therefore, they can support in-plane forces &
out-of-plane moments and forces as shown below.
 F11 & F22 are Membrane direct forces

 F12 is Membrane shear force
 M11 & M22 are Plate bending moments
 M12 is Plate twisting (torsional) moment
 V13 & V23 are Plate transverse shear forces
Apply the right hand rule to see the direction of the moments. As an example, the figure below
shows M11 & M22 drawn as a curled arrow.
Therefore, in ETABS, shell or area element has two types of stiffnesses i.e.
 In-plane stiffness; which corrosponds to f11, f22 & f12.
 Out-of-plane stiffness; which corrosponds to m11, m22 & m12.
Slabs
Depending on how the slabs are modelled (shell or membrane), the modifiers are;
 If slabs are modelled as membrane; f11, f22, f12 = 0.5
 If slabs are modelled as shell; f11, f22, f12, m11, m22, m12, v13, v23 = 0.5.
Note that if rigid diaphragm is assigned for slabs; f11, f22, f12 are not important (makes no
difference) in both cases.
To assign the modifiers for slabs;
 Go to “Select”  “Select”  “Object Type” to display the Select by Object Type form.

 Highlight “Floors” and click the “Select” button. Then click the “Close” button.
 Go to “Assign”  “Shell”  “Stiffness Modifiers” to display Stiffness Modifiers form.
Walls
For walls, the modifiers depend on whether they are pier or spandrel as shown below.
 Wall Pier; f11 = 1 f22, f12, m11, m22, m12, v13, v23 = 0.5
 Wall Spandrel; f22 = 1 f11, f12, m11, m22, m12, v13, v23 = 0.5
The values shown above are assuming that the walls support out-of-plane bending. Generally,
walls are not designed for out-of-plane bending to avoid excessive longitudinal reinforcement.
In this case, use a small modifier (say 0.1) for m11, m22 & m12.
To assign the modifiers for wall pier (assuming you have already assigned pier labels);
 Go to “Select”  “Select”  “Labels”  “Pier Labels” to display the form shown below.
 Highlight the pier labels and click the “Select” button. Then click the “Close” button.

To assign the modifiers for wall spandrel (assuming you have already assigned spandrel labels);
 Go to “Select”  “Select”  “Labels”  “Spandrel Labels” to display the form shown.
 Highlight the spandrel labels and click the “Select” button. Then click the “Close” button.

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ETABS, SAP2000 & SAFE Training Basic Concepts

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Basic Design Steps

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The Graphical User Interface (GUI)

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 Model Initialization can be used to choose an option to determine: System of Units,

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The Define Materials form can be used to;

 Click “OK”. The Material Property Data form appears.

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 Click “OK” & “OK” to complete slab section definition.

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 Click “OK” & “OK” to complete wall section definition.

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 Click “OK” when you finish all load pattern definition.

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Where  Ei    2i EBCS-8, Eq. 4.2

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Maximum Number of Modes

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Lateral Force Method

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Modal Response Spectrum Analysis

 In the Function Definition form, specify the following parameters.

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First, let us define the in the X direction.

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The combination equation for SLS in normal situation is;

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To define the SLS load combination;

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B) Lateral Force Method

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 Click “OK” to finish the definition leave.

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