HITEC releases report on seismic isolation systems
The report, Summary of Evaluation Findings for the Testing of Seismic Isolation and Energy Dissipating Devices (#40404), includes innovative technologies designed to make bridges more resistant to earthquakes. They work by allowing the bridge superstructure to move relative to its substructure, providing needed flexibility.
Need for validated performance data prompted evaluation
HITEC undertook a comprehensive group evaluation of these devices at the request of the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the Federal Highway Administration to address the need for validated performance data for these technologies and to determine their suitability for use on new and existing bridges.
All known manufacturers of seismic isolation and energy dissipation devices from around the world were invited to participate in the evaluation program. This testing program was the first to conduct full-scale, dynamic testing of these devices for use throughout the U.S.
Ten vendors submitted eight isolators and three energy dissipaters for testing. The isolation bearings were subjected to a series of tests designed to evaluate stability, response during earthquake simulations, and fatigue and weathering effects, among other things.
Report helps interpret results of eight technology reports
The new report provides a brief snapshot of the history of seismic isolation for bridges and helps interpret the results of eight individual technology evaluation reports.
Three reports presenting the results on dampers (energy dissipaters) evaluated during this process were Enidine Inc. Viscous Damper (#40403), Oiles Multiple Viscous Shear Damper (#40401) and Taylor Devices Fluid Viscous Damper (#40402).
The individual isolation systems completing the evaluation program were: Dynamic Isolation Systems Elastomeric Bearings (#40369); Earthquake Protection Systems, Inc. Friction Pendulum Bearings (#4O370); FIP-Energy Absorption Systems, L.C.C. Slider Bearings (#40367); R. J. Watson, Inc. Sliding Isolation Bearings (#40368); Scougal Rubber Corporation High Damping Rubber Bearings (#40373); Skellerup Base Isolation Elastomeric Bearings (#40376); Tekton® Inc. Roller Bearings (#40366); and, Tekton® Inc. Steel Rubber Bearings (#40365).
Copies of Summary of Evaluation Findings for the Testing of Seismic Isolation and Energy Dissipating Devices (#40404) or any of the technology specific reports mentioned above may be purchased by calling 800-548-2723 or 703-295-6300, or via pubs@asce.org.
For additional information concerning the seismic isolation and energy dissipater evaluation program or HITEC, contact Elizabeth Delo at 202-842-0555 or press@cerforg.
Editor's note: CERF is an independent, nonprofit 5Ol©(3) organization created by the American Society of Civil Engineers and headquartered in Washington, D. C. CERF operates innovative technology evaluation centers in the areas of highways, public works, the environment, and buildings to help the design and construction industry expedite the transfer of innovation into practice.
Edited by Joyce Jungclaus, Editor, Public Works Online