Performance-Based Seismic Design using ETABS

CSi Bangkok and AIT Solutions hosted an exclusive training webinar focused on Performance-Based Seismic Design (PBSD) using ETABS on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

This event was specifically designed for structural engineers, designers, and professionals looking to deepen their understanding of modeling, analysis, and seismic design for tall buildings.

Webinar Details

• Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
• Duration: 1.5 hours + 30-minute Q&A
• Online Platform: Zoom
• Target Audience: Structural engineers, designers, and professionals

This webinar covered various conceptual and practical sessions on Performance-Based Seismic Design (PBSD) of tall buildings, an advanced approach for designing high-rises in earthquake-prone areas. Participants learned about how ETABS software helps perform Nonlinear Response History Analysis (NRHA) to assess structural performance under seismic loads.

Presentations

The recordings of each session can be viewed on our YouTube Channel Playlist – PBD using ETABS or viewed individually by clicking on the respective links below.

1. Why Performance-Based Design Matters – Dr. Naveed Anwar
2. Considerations in Seismic Design of Tall Buildings using a Performance-Based Approach – Mr. Thaung Htut Aung
3. Application of ETABS in Performance-Based Seismic Design – Mr. Shabir Ali Talpur
4. Q&A – Moderated by Mr. Ashish Sapkota

During the Q&A, time constraints allowed us to address only a selection of questions live. We were thrilled to receive over 40 insightful and challenging submissions, and we’ve done our best to respond to each one. You can view all the questions and their corresponding answers here.

Key Takeaways:

• Performance-Based Design (PBD) is the Future of Seismic Design
  Dr. Naveed Anwar emphasized the importance of shifting from traditional code-based methods to performance-based approaches, especially for tall buildings in seismic zones. PBD allows engineers to assess actual structural performance rather than relying solely on prescriptive design rules.

• ETABS Enables Advanced Seismic Analysis through NRHA
  Participants gained valuable insights into using ETABS for Nonlinear Response History Analysis (NRHA), which is a powerful method that simulates how buildings behave under real earthquake loads. This creates a better understanding of structural resilience and safety.

• Key Considerations in Tall Building Seismic Design
  Mr. Thaung Htut Aung discussed practical and conceptual challenges in applying PBD to high-rises. These insights are critical for achieving accurate and code-compliant designs.

• Practical ETABS Modeling Techniques Shared
  Mr. Shabir Ali Talpur walked through how to set up a PBSD model in ETABS, highlighting essential features like nonlinear hinges, material definitions, and load combinations. The session bridged theory with hands-on application.

• High Engagement and Inquisitive Participation
  With over 400 attendees and a stable core of 240–250 active participants, the audience was highly engaged. The interactive Q&A revealed a strong interest in both foundational concepts and advanced modeling techniques—underscoring the growing demand for PBSD expertise.

For more information or questions, please email us at [email protected]