limitations for dt in NTHA

[saharnaz]

HI
how can we find an appropriate dt for time history analysis?
is there any limitation for the lowest dt? or we can lessen dt until the analysis runs successfully?

[fmk]

the dt depends on the model. some of the integration schemes have a dt min based on stability requirements. After considering the dt for the integrator people then look to the input motion, if no dt from the integrator they typically just chooses the dt of a recorded ground motion. Finally if convergence issues they cut the dt, sometime to such an extent that an explicit integrator might as well be used.