Diseño y actualización estructural de edificación comercial de 3 niveles en Guayaquil según NEC-15

Abstract

This project assesses the performance of an existing building through a code-based comparison to support intervention decisions. The objective is to verify seismic behavior and, if needed, define a solution with minimal architectural intrusion that increases capacity and extends service life. The hypothesis states that, even with the same seismic weight, demand increases under current provisions due to changes in key design parameters compared to older codes, justifying a comparative assessment. During the project, a site survey, preliminary sizing, and structural modeling were carried out; a linear static analysis was performed using CEC-2000 and NEC-15 load combinations, and technical deliverables were produced, including structural and plumbing drawings, a cost estimate, and a schedule. Results showed that story drifts complied; however, for a reinforced concrete moment resisting frame (RCMRF) the change in the response modification factor R increased the seismic coefficient Cs, raising internal demands and leading to non-compliant strength checks in columns. It is concluded that the intervention should prioritize increasing column capacity with low architectural impact. Keywords: CEC-2000, RCMRF, seismic demand, structural assessment, architectural feasibility.