Shake Table Testing: The Most Reliable Tool to Simulate Earthquakes
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Mustafa Mashal
Abstract
Recent earthquakes have shown the vulnerability of our current infrastructure, as previous building standards have not been adequate to counter natural forces effectively. Shake tables are the most reliable testing method for evaluating seismic performance of structural models. In shake table testing, ground motion records from previous earthquakes can be input through a computer system to test full or small-scale structural models.
There are currently three shake tables belonging to Idaho State University. This research presents a description of the tables and their capabilities. Procedures on how to operate the tables and record data from experimental structural models during testing are presented. Given the state of ISU’s tables, research has focused around hydraulic systems analysis, operations analysis, and limitations determination.
The most typical directions of motion are vertical and horizontal from which a good understanding of how a structure may behave can be determined. Acquisition/control systems are used to determine and measure force, intensity, and displacement of the structural model during testing. The operating system can allow for a simple sine curve cycle of motion or a classical shock, which can be programmed to simulate recorded ground motions. With the now operable tables, research upon actual structural models can begin.
Shake Table Testing: The Most Reliable Tool to Simulate Earthquakes
Recent earthquakes have shown the vulnerability of our current infrastructure, as previous building standards have not been adequate to counter natural forces effectively. Shake tables are the most reliable testing method for evaluating seismic performance of structural models. In shake table testing, ground motion records from previous earthquakes can be input through a computer system to test full or small-scale structural models.
There are currently three shake tables belonging to Idaho State University. This research presents a description of the tables and their capabilities. Procedures on how to operate the tables and record data from experimental structural models during testing are presented. Given the state of ISU’s tables, research has focused around hydraulic systems analysis, operations analysis, and limitations determination.
The most typical directions of motion are vertical and horizontal from which a good understanding of how a structure may behave can be determined. Acquisition/control systems are used to determine and measure force, intensity, and displacement of the structural model during testing. The operating system can allow for a simple sine curve cycle of motion or a classical shock, which can be programmed to simulate recorded ground motions. With the now operable tables, research upon actual structural models can begin.