Seismic Load Calculator

Formulas

The Seismic Load Calculator uses a simplified formula based on the Equivalent Lateral Force Procedure:

• Base Shear (\( V \)) = \( \frac{Z I}{R} \times W \)
• Where:
  • \( Z = \text{Zone Factor} \) (seismic hazard level)
  • \( I = \text{Importance Factor} \) (assumed 1.0 for simplicity)
  • \( R = \text{Response Modification Factor} \) (ductility factor)
  • \( W = \text{Seismic Weight} \) (total dead load)

How to Use

1. Enter the seismic weight (in kN) in the “Seismic Weight” field.
2. Enter the zone factor (0 to 1) in the “Zone Factor” field or use zone buttons.
3. Enter the response modification factor in the “Response Factor” field.
4. Optionally, click a zone button to set the zone factor.
5. Click “Calculate Base Shear” to see your results.
6. Scroll to the “Results” section for detailed calculations.
7. Use the share buttons to share your base shear or embed the calculator.

Examples

1. Example 1: Weight = 1000 kN, Zone Factor = 0.1, Response Factor = 3
   Base Shear = \( \frac{0.1 \times 1}{3} \times 1000 = 33.33 \, \text{kN} \)
2. Example 2: Weight = 2000 kN, Zone Factor = 0.2, Response Factor = 5
   Base Shear = \( \frac{0.2 \times 1}{5} \times 2000 = 80.0 \, \text{kN} \)
3. Example 3: Weight = 500 kN, Zone Factor = 0.4, Response Factor = 4
   Base Shear = \( \frac{0.4 \times 1}{4} \times 500 = 50.0 \, \text{kN} \)