ACI 318 21.7.7 - applicable 1

[Murali27]

I am using ACI code of practice. I got a doubt...

In ACI 318 21.7.7 spells out that the design procedure applicable for special RC walls/coupling beams (if they are part of earth quake resisting system).

Are all these procedures applicable for RC walls/beams if they are part of wind force resisting system ?

Thanks in advance

 

[JAE]

Are you asking if the provisions of Chapter 21 apply to design under load combinations with wind? The answer is no.

Chapter 21 is specifically tied to design under moderate or high seismic load combinations and should not be used for wind combinations. Low seismic loads can be designed without Chapter 21.

So you design your structure for gravity and wind under Chapters 1-20. Under seismic load combinations, when you are designing an intermediate or special moment frame, or when the seismic load is moderate or high risk, you should use Chapter 21 for just those combinations including seismic forces.

Read the commentary of Chapter 21 and it spells out when Chapter 21 is to be applied.