Using the SkyCiv Load Generator in EN 1991-1-3 Snow Load Calculations
To calculate the snow load pressures for a structure using SkyCiv Load Generator, the process is to define first the code reference. From there, the workflow is to define the parameters in Project Tab, Site Tab, and Building Tab, respectively. However, only users with a Professional Account or who purchased the standalone Load Generator module will be able to use this calculation. You can purchase the standalone module thru this link.
Site Data
Using EN 1991-1-3, you need to an address in the Project Address input first and the software will automatically get the snow load for that location. Currently, the load generator supports the following countries:
- Belgium
- France
- Germany
- Ireland
- Luxembourg
- The Netherlands
- United Kingdom
The snow load values were obtained using Appendix C of EN 1991-1-3 or each individual National Annex. To display the snow region map, you need to click “View Map Contours” and then select “Snow.”
Structure Data
The structure data and the wind and snow parameters are separated into different accordions. In order to calculate snow loads, the snow load checkbox should be checked.
Topography for EN 1991-1-3 Snow Calculation
This parameter is used in getting Exposure Coefficient Ce. The definition of each option is defined in the table below:
| Topography | Definition |
|---|---|
| Windswept | Flat unobstructed areas exposed on all sides without, or little shelter afforded by terrain, higher construction works or trees. |
| Normal | Areas where there is no significant removal of snow by wind on construction work, because of terrain, other construction works or trees. |
| Sheltered | Areas in which the construction work being considered is considerably lower than the surrounding terrain or surrounded by high trees and/or surrounded by higher construction works. |
Type of Snow
This parameter is used in getting the mean bulk weight density of snow, γ. The definition of each option is defined in the table below:
| Type of Snow | Bulk weight density kN/m3 |
|---|---|
| Fresh | 1.0 |
| Settled (several hours or days after its fall) | 2.0 |
| Old (several weeks or months after its fall) | 3.0 |
| Wet | 4.0 |
Design Situation
Currently, Design Situtation is limited to “Normal Condition.”
Consider Unbalanced/Drifted Snow Load Case?
This parameter is a “Yes” or “No” to calculate Unbalanced Snow Load Case. Upon selecting “No,” the balanced snow load case shall only be calculated. On the other hand, upon selecting “Yes,” the unbalanced snow load case table will show.
Drift on duopitch roof
This case is used to calculate the drifted snow load on duopitch/gable roof as shown below:
Drift on monopitch roof
This case is used to calculate the drifted snow load on monopitch/monoslope roof as shown below:
Drift on projections and obstruction
This case is used to calculate the snow load drift on obstructions above the roof level such as parapet walls, firewalls, chimneys, etc.
Drift on roof abutting to taller construction works
This case is used to calculate the snow load drift on roof abutting to taller construction works.
Results
The snow load results will show the parameters in calculating the undrifted snow load as shown below:
Unbalanced/Drifted Snow Load
If Unbalanced/Drifted Snow Load is selected to be considered, the results are tabulated on a table depending on the cases defined:
Detailed Calculation
The detailed snow load calculations can be accessed only by Professional account users and those who purchased the standalone load generator module. All the parameters and assumptions used in the calculation are displayed on the report to make it transparent to the user. You can download a sample detailed calculation thru this link.
