Adding element to the model after applying gravity load

[sattar]

Hi,

I have a model for masonry infilled RC frame (lumped plasticity-based elements for frame and strut elements for the infill). I wonder if I can add the struts to the model after I perform the gravity analysis. In the other word, I would like to apply the gravity loads on the bare frame and then add the struts to the model (or tell my model to consider the struts from now) and then perform pushover or dynamic analysis.

Thanks,
Siamak Sattar

[vesna]

Yes, you can do that. After you perform gravity analysis define your strut elements and apply any other type of loading.