ETABS Introduction

What is ETABS? This question might seem a bit trivial at the first look. But for new users these kinds of  basic information can accelerate their learning process. Since 3 decades ago, different pieces of engineering software has been significantly developed. Building constructions has fueled the need for building design software. Among all, ETABS is identified as a developed structure analysis and design program.

What is ETABS Software?

In simple words, ETABS has been designed for multi-storied building structural analysis as well as structural design. It can covers both dynamic and static conditions. Loading must be computed manually according to codes. As a result the user must have enough knowledge and skills of the loading code which is recognized in his/her country.

Another interesting feature of ETABS is the ability of seismic behavior assessment, time-history analysis and considering the effect of P-Delta in large displacements. Some of the advantageous technical features of ETABS are listed below:

  • It is easy to create the geometry of complex 3D structure.
  • Model modification is easy due to a wide range of commands such as Mirror and Merge
  • The geometry of the model can be exported to a .dxf file to be used in similar projects.
  • The ability of communicating with other software such as ??? has made ETABS efficient for design of steel connections.
  • Unlike many numerical software, such as ABAQUS, the weight of material is computed and applied automatically.
  • Loading of earthquake and wind are created automatically. Moreover, by selecting the building code, the load combinations are automatically defined.
  • ETABS can work in compliance with SAP2000 and SAFE, which makes the design of structural members (such as bridges, foundation and slabs) more convenient.

Why we make mistakes with ETABS

However its user-friendly graphical interface has made it easy to use, any modeling might fail to produce accurate results without having enough knowledge about the theories.

During 5 years of teaching, I have seen a lot of inaccurate or even wrong modelling performed by students and engineers who attend my classes. I believe the main reason for these common mistakes is that most people start copying some modeling published on internet without gaining insight into the matter.

I have produced a video coarse for ETABS in which many common mistakes are introduced in hope that talented users find it as a useful source for their professional future.

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