G.17.4.1.1 What is a Pushover Analysis?
A pushover analysis is a static, nonlinear procedure using a simplified, nonlinear technique to estimate seismic structural deformations. It is an incremental static analysis which is used to determine the force-displacement relationship – or the capacity curve – for a structure or structural element.
The analysis involves applying horizontal loads, in a prescribed pattern, to the structure incrementally, i.e., pushing the structure and plotting the total applied shear force and associated lateral displacement at each increment, until the structure reaches a collapse condition or a prescribed limit.
This definition of a pushover analysis is in accordance with both the following references:
- FEMA 356 " Prestandard and Commentary for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings " (2000, American Society of Civil Engineers for Federal Emergency Management Agency)
- ATC-40 " Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Concrete Buildings " (1996, Applied Technology Council)