Seismic Drift Evaluation of a High-Rise Reinforced Concrete Building using Advanced SAP2000

Research Article

Abstract

Inter-storey drift is one of the most critical seismic response parameters governing the performance of high-rise buildings, as it directly affects global structural stability, damage to non-structural components, and occupant safety during earthquake events. With the increasing height and complexity of modern skyscrapers, conventional simplified analysis approaches are often inadequate to capture realistic lateral deformation behavior. The advancement of structural analysis software has enabled more accurate modeling of dynamic response under seismic loading. In this study, a comprehensive and code-compliant seismic drift evaluation of a reinforced concrete high-rise building is carried out using the advanced features of SAP2000. A detailed three-dimensional finite element model is developed, incorporating realistic material properties, cracked-section stiffness modifiers, rigid diaphragm action, and appropriate mass source definitions. Seismic forces are applied through response spectrum analysis in accordance with the provisions of IS 1893 (Part 1):2016 and ASCE 7-22, ensuring consistency with both national and international design practices. Modal analysis is performed to capture dominant vibration modes and achieve sufficient mass participation. Inter-storey drift ratios are directly extracted from SAP2000 outputs and evaluated against the permissible drift limits prescribed by the respective codes. The variation of drift along the building height is analyzed to identify critical storey levels and assess the influence of higher-mode effects. The results indicate that maximum drift typically occurs at mid-height storeys and remains within allowable limits for both code provisions, demonstrating satisfactory seismic performance of the structural system. The study highlights the effectiveness of advanced SAP2000 modeling and analysis capabilities in accurately predicting drift behavior and supporting safe, serviceable, and code-compliant design of high-rise reinforced concrete buildings in seismic regions.