Post-processing of seismic action effects

Synopsis

Computer analysis is frequently used in structural engineering to predict the effects of actions such as wind and earthquake. The analysis can be divided into three distinct phases: pre-processing (model building), solution, and post-processing. Practitioners usually give most thought to the first phase (pre-processing). The wide availability of software ensures that the second phase (solution) is largely automated. The third phase (post-processing) is often perceived to be easy. All the relevant results are now available, and so, it is assumed, post-processing is merely a matter of presenting those results. However, this assumption is facile when it comes to seismic analysis. The post-processing of seismic action effects can be challenging, and it remains an area that is associated with misunderstandings and pitfalls. In this lecture, the current Chair of SECED, Andreas Nielsen, will draw on his 20 years of experience and present an overview of post-processing. He will survey current methods outlined in Eurocode 8 and ASCE 4 and discuss more sophisticated methods, which have been deployed recently in the UK nuclear new build sector. Finally, he will identify some unresolved problems that deserve greater attention.

About the speaker

Andreas Nielsen is a Chartered Civil Engineer working for Atkins in Glasgow. His experience includes analysis and design of steel, reinforced concrete and composite steel and concrete structures. He has developed advanced methods for seismic analysis and authored several papers and presentations on various topics in earthquake engineering. He has provided consultancy services to the nuclear industry and other industries requiring expert advice concerning earthquake and blast protection. He is an annual guest lecturer in the Earthquake Engineering module at Heriot-Watt University.

Further information

This event is organised by SECED. The event will be chaired by Ian G. Smith (Atkins). Attendance at this meeting is free for members and non-members alike. Please note that this event was previously advertised as commencing 6.30pm. The start time is 6.00pm.

In-person attendance

The event will be held in-person at the Institution of Civil Engineers (see map below). Prior registration is not required. Seats are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served from 5.30 - 6 pm. We encourage everyone to attend in person if they can.

Online attendance

This event will also be broadcast online. Please register for the event prior to joining. The registration process will provide you with the link you need to join the main event.

Register

* Recording of the evening meeting is available here:

Post-processing of seismic action effects | Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)