SDC A

[DaveAtkins]

I have recently "inherited" a couple of projects from co-workers who have left to pursue other opportunities. Both are in the construction phase, so I am just reviewing shop drawings and answering field questions.

Both projects are in SDC A. However, on the Design Loads sheet for each project, a value for Cs > 0.01 is listed. The value given is equal to SDS/(R/I), which would be correct for any other SDC besides SDC A.

I always thought if your structure is SDC A, you are automatically permitted to use 0.01W, regardless of what SDS/(R/I) is calculated to be.

Or am I missing something?

DaveAtkins

 

[wannabeSE]

I'd say 0.01W is permitted. See ASCE 7-05 section 11.7. Similar requirements in ASCE 7-10, except it exempts the structure from all seismic requirements and directs you to section 1.4 for similar structural integrity requirements with 0.01 W. But, ASCE 7 is the "Minimum Design Load . . ."

 

[DaveAtkins]

It probably almost never matters. Although, you could have a very heavy structure (ballasted roof, concrete framing, etc.) where seismic could control in SDC A.

DaveAtkins

 

[JAE]

Yes - if you are SDC A you primarily will only have the horizontal force = 0.01W as a static load used for E in design....agree with wannabeSE.



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