EFFECT OF LATERAL FORCES ON THE BEHAVIOUR OF BUILDING WITH AND WITHOUT SHEAR WALL

Abstract

Buildings are subjected to various external forces, with lateral forces being among the mostsignificant, primarily stemming from wind loads and seismic activity. These forces can greatly influence the stability and functionality of structures, particularly in high rise and multi-story buildings. It is crucial to comprehend how buildings react to these lateral loads, both with and without structural reinforcements such as shear walls, to ensure safety and longevity. This research aims to assess the behavior of buildings under lateral forces and examine the effectiveness of shear walls in improving structural resistance. Lateral forces exert a horizontal impact and can lead to bending, swaying, and twisting of the building structure. In structures that do not have sufficient lateral load-resisting systems, such forces may cause excessive displacement, cracking of structural components, and in severe cases, collapse. These problems are especially evident during earthquakes, where sudden ground motion generates high-intensity lateral forces. Although wind loads are typically more gradual, they can also inflict cumulative damage over time. The degree to which a building can withstand and absorb these lateral forces without jeopardizing safety is a critical measure of its structural performance. Shear walls are vertical structural components that are strategically integrated within the building framework to counter lateral displacements. They function by transferring lateral loads from the slabs and beams to the foundation, thereby enhancing the stiffness and minimizing the movement of the structure. The inclusion of shear walls can significantly reduce inter-story drift, lessen torsional effects, and restrict structural deformation. These advantages are vital for preserving the serviceability of a building during and after an event involving lateral loads. To investigate the impact of lateral forces, a comparative analysis was performed on two types of building models: one without shear walls and the other with shear walls positioned at critical locations.