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April 1, 2010

Researchers test quake-proof framing system

  • The system has steel fuses that are designed to flex and dissipate energy while vertical tendons return the frame to its original position after an earthquake.
    • By JON SILVER
    Journal Staff Reporter

    Image courtesy of the University of Illinois [enlarge]
    A new structural system was tested last summer on the world’s largest shake table, at E-Defense in Japan.

    Even buildings designed to withstand earthquakes can suffer serious damage when a big one hits. The motion can exert enough stress on the structures to make them unfit for use. Lives are saved, but the buildings face costly repairs or even demolition.


     
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