We investigated how creating new steel-framed openings affects the seismic behaviour of load-bearing masonry walls.

Using advanced nonlinear FE simulations, we analysed the influence of frame typology, steel-profile size, masonry quality, connection details, and opening position. The results show that only very stiff frames can restore the original wall stiffness, while strength is less sensitive to the chosen profile. Masonry quality and the degree of steel–masonry interaction strongly affect capacity, and non-centred openings generate markedly different responses depending on the direction of seismic action.

Extending the study to 3D buildings reveals that even strength increases in a single wall can worsen the global displacement capacity.

The work provides guidance for safer design and highlights when local interventions may trigger global structural effects.

References

• [Billi L., Laudicina F., Salvatori L., Orlando M., Spinelli P. (2019). Forming New Steel-Framed Openings in Load-Bearing Masonry Walls: Design Methods and Nonlinear Finite Element Simulations. Bulletin of Earthquake Engineering, 17:2647-2670]