MNSEA Monthly Meeting: Mastering Masonry Shear Walls: Design & Analysis with FEA (11/4/2025)

Description

Presentation: Mastering Masonry Shear Walls: Design & Analysis with FEA
 
Description: In structural engineering, shear walls are critical in resisting lateral forces typically caused by wind and seismic loads. Perforated shear walls, or shear walls with openings, present unique challenges and opportunities in design. We’ll cover the design and optimization of perforated masonry shear walls, highlighting how finite element analysis (FEA) software can streamline and enhance structural design. Discover how tools like RAM Elements and RISA 3D empower engineers to create efficient masonry wall designs through real-world case studies.

Image by FORSE Consulting
Learning Objectives:

• Identify types of masonry shear walls and explain their role in resisting lateral forces in structural systems.
• Evaluate strategies to improve the performance and effectiveness of masonry shear walls, including reinforcement and design optimization techniques.
• Discuss finite element analysis (FEA) software, such as RAM Elements and RISA 3D, to analyze and design perforated masonry shear walls.
• Analyze case studies demonstrating the successful application of FEA software in designing efficient and code-compliant masonry shear walls.

 
Presenters
Sam Rubenzer, PE, SE
Structural Engineer, FORSE Consulting

Sam started FORSE in 2010, were he works as a delegated designer for other structural engineers on designs involving steel, concrete, PT concrete, masonry, and wood construction. He often speaks on the topics of software use and best practices in masonry design.
Sam has over 20 years of experience and is a licensed structural engineer (SE) and a professional engineer (PE) in many of the Midwestern states. He has also been a consultant to IMI for the past 10 years.