Comparison of Equivalent Earthquake Methods in some Countries in Earthquake Zone

Earthquakes have detrimental effects on the structures. The loads due to earthquakes must be correctly determined and structural analysis and designs must be performed according to that predicted lateral loads. For the representation of lateral seismic forces on the structures, several methods are available. The simplest method among them is the “equivalent lateral load method”. This method depends on the calculation of lateral load that acts to the structure during seismic activity by multiplying the weight with some variable constants. Several constants are developed to represent complex behavior. These variable constants are changing for every countries code or regulation. In this study, equivalent earthquake load method defined in Turkish Earthquake Code is compared with the regulations on different countries code. A 6-storey reinforced concrete structure is considered in the study. There are 2 spans in the x and y directions of the build. Three-dimensional model is created in the ETABS program using the weight of the structure and some known features. The natural vibration period of the structure is taken from the program and the base shear forces acting on the structure are calculated and compared