ASDIP ANALYSIS is a software for the generation of loads, as well as for the analysis of structural members. it includes the generation of snow loads per the ASCE 7 provisions. This document shows an example of the generation of snow loads on a structure per ASCE 7-22 using ASDIP ANALYSIS.
Snow Loads Example
As an example, let’s consider the roof structure shown below, which is located on a Surface Roughness Category C, and it is exposed on all sides with no shelter. The Ground Snow load is 25 psf. The building complies with a Thermal Condition A and Risk Category II. The roof slope is 1/4"/ft. Calculate the snow load on the roof, including the snow drift for the conditions shown below.
Specifying the Snow Parameters
In the Ground Snow tab select the Surface Roughness Category C, corresponding to open areas with scattered obstructions, and the Roof Exposure as fully exposed. Then enter the Ground Snow load as 25 psf. If not provided, the program shows a link where this load can be found based on the project location.
Go to the Building tab and select the Thermal Condition A and Risk Category II. Under the Roof Geometry section, enter the roof slope as a proportion of 12. For example, 0.25 / 12 indicates 1/4"/ft.
Finally. go to the Snow Drift tab and enter the information given for the four conditions in the statement of the example.
The image below shows the Ground Snow tab, and a partial view of the Calculations tab.
Analyzing the Results
ASDIP ANALYSIS calculates the flat roof snow load and the sloped balanced snow load. In this case, the roof is an unobstructed slippery surface with a slope angle of 1.2 deg, therefore the balanced snow load is calculated as 25.3 psf, corresponding to a snow height of 1.47 ft.
The software calculates the snow drift (length and height) for the four conditions shown in the statement of the example. The drift is calculated for both windward and leeward, and the controlling calculation is identified and reported, as shown below in the Graph tab.
ASDIP ANALYSIS generates a detailed presentation of the results in the Calculations tab, showing step-by-step calculations organized by topic, with exposed formulas and references to the design code. This is excellent for a deep granular check of the calculations.
Takeaway
ASDIP ANALYSIS includes the generation of snow loads on a structure, as well as the snow drift for several conditions. This step-by-step example shows how quickly the calculations can be completed using ASDIP ANALYSIS. The results are shown instantly in both text and graphical formats for an immediate granular check.
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Best regards,
Javier Encinas, PE
ASDIP Structural Software