A Reliability analysis on the applicability range of Caltrans-SDC method to address the P-Delta effects

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to investigate the applicability range on the Caltrans Seismic Design Criteria (SDC) to address the P-Delta effect. Caltrans SDC defines a maximum ratio for bending moment induced by P-Delta effects over the yielding moment capacity of the column. For columns satisfying this criterion predefined target ductility is used to design the columns. Columns with higher P-Delta induced bending moments should be subjected to nonlinear time history analysis to verify their performance. Typically, designers to prevent performing time consuming, nonlinear time history analyses resize the column to remain in the safe margin. This study through rigorous push over analyses identifies the applicability range for the Caltrans-SDC method.