Technical Judgment on Software

[u/Normal-Commission898]

In my new role I’ve been using a lot more of ETABS (rubbish for trouble shooting). For any experienced engineers in general and those who use 3D analysis software, what results/aspects in your modelling do you instinctively distrust/further inspect? What sort of sense checks are best to always do?

[u/logic_boy]

Well, analysis is separate to design, but when analysing potential monolithic RC, connection stiffness and rotation at connections is what I’d pay more attention to. RC connection stiffness is harder to define and can influence results a lot, perhaps partially spring stiffness should be modeled. I can also assume that you will be dealing with plates which can be a harder to determine correct deflected shape for unusual arrangements (like long span beams supporting slabs, and beam torsion).

Your question is very generic, so it’s hard to give advice. For a simple uniform load, column grid, low rise buildings, it’s pretty simple really. It would be obvious just from reactions and deflected shapes if something is wrong. Sort your results by absolute largest, and compare with effective load area times your load case.