Tips & Tricks

December 29, 2025

What’s New for IBC 2024 in RISA: A Closer Look

With RISA’s latest release of RISA-3D v23.0.1, we’re continuing to expand support for IBC 2024, helping engineers stay aligned with the latest building code requirements as adoption accelerates across the U.S.—including federally funded projects. This release builds on v23.0.0 ASCE 7-22 enhancements and adds key material design updates that move RISA further into full IBC 2024 compliance. New Material Design Updates Supporting IBC 2024 The upcoming release introduces several important design code updates referenced by IBC 2024, including: Steel Seismic design per AISC 341-22 Prequalified connections per AISC 358-22 Continued support for AISC 360-22 (16th Edition) steel design Ongoing updates to the hot-rolled shape database, including compatibility with both 15th and 16th Edition steel manuals These updates support modern seismic detailing requirements and ensure consistency with current steel industry standards. Masonry Masonry design per TMS 402-22, aligning with the latest strength and serviceability provisions adopted by IBC 2024. Key updates include: Revisions to shear design equations, including clarified definitions of shear area as outlined in Table 4.4.5, improving consistency and transparency in shear capacity calculations. Updated strength reduction factors for flexure and combined flexure + axial. Unlike previous editions that used a fixed ϕ-factor of 0.9, TMS 402-22 introduces tension-controlled,…

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Honoring Asian American & Pacific Islander Tradition in Modern Construction
May 6, 2024

Honoring Asian American & Pacific Islander Tradition in Modern Construction

In recognition of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, RISA celebrates the enduring architectural traditions that have shaped structural engineering. Among these, the intricate timber joinery techniques stand as a testament to AAPI craftsmanship and innovation. Passed down...

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The Importance of Keeping Your RISA & ADAPT Software Up to Date
April 25, 2024

The Importance of Keeping Your RISA & ADAPT Software Up to Date

In the fast-paced world of structural engineering, staying up to date with the latest software updates is crucial for maintaining efficiency, productivity, and ensuring the highest quality of work. This holds especially true for users of RISA software, where regular updates bring not only new...

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Celebrating Pi Day with RISA!
March 14, 2024

Celebrating Pi Day with RISA!

As engineers, we're no strangers to the power of numbers. And on Pi Day, we're reminded of one of the most iconic constants in mathematics: π. But what does π have to do with structural engineering software? More than you might think! Join us as we explore the role of π in our field and celebrate...

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Building Love: Celebrate Valentine's Day like a RISA Engineer
February 14, 2024

Building Love: Celebrate Valentine's Day like a RISA Engineer

Love is in the RISA! 💕 Happy Valentine's Day to all the structural engineers out there who know how to build a strong foundation for love. Remember, just like in structural engineering, it's all about finding the perfect balance and making sure your heart stays well-supported. Wishing you a day...

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Engineering Tomorrow: The Evolution of Telecom Structure Design
January 23, 2024

Engineering Tomorrow: The Evolution of Telecom Structure Design

You've probably noticed those cell phone towers around town—those tall structures with antennas that help keep us connected. Well, they're not just getting taller; they're getting smarter! These structures, once purely functional, have transformed into architectural marvels that blend seamlessly...

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Engineering Thanksgiving: Infusing STEM into your Holiday
November 21, 2023

Engineering Thanksgiving: Infusing STEM into your Holiday

Thanksgiving offers more than just a feast—it's an incredible opportunity to blend the holiday with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Here's how you can engineer your Thanksgiving table with a STEM twist:

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Navigating Structural Engineering Stress During the Holiday Season
November 16, 2023

Navigating Structural Engineering Stress During the Holiday Season

The holiday season, synonymous with joy and celebration, can also bring unique challenges for structural engineers. Amidst the festive cheer, professionals in this field often grapple with increased workloads, impending deadlines, and the delicate balance between professional commitments and...

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