Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Guidelines For Non Ductile Buildings Seismic Retrofit

By Jerry Burns


Non-ductile structures are considered to have high fatality numbers during an earthquake. These kinds of structures are characterized by having concrete floors, roofs which are supported by concrete walls and columns. The rigidity form of these structures leads to a limited ability to absorb the shock during an earthquake. Relevant retrofitting measures must be considered to ensure that these buildings can withstand seismic activities. Here are a few methods for non ductile buildings seismic retrofit to be considered.

Consider using the column reinforcing measures. Different materials can be used to strengthen columns which support buildings. This includes reinforcement using carbon fiber, plate winding, aramid fiber and poring reinforced concrete. Aramid and carbon fibers are the best measures to undertake since they are light and do not add weight to the building foundation.

Internal bracing procedure. Structures that have in-built columns supporting floors require internal bracing. This procedure involves the installation of braces that are fixed on the beam and the columns in a cross-sectioned manner. Steel is the best metal to use in such consideration since it is strong and lightweight. The braces can be used as window openings for buildings with low light intensity.

Add reinforced concrete on the wall. Weak walls must be reinforced to ensure that they withstand earthquake shock. This method does not apply to every wall making it less costly and effective. However, it adds the weight on the foundation which can be a disadvantage or advantage according to the weight capacity of the respective base.

Use ceiling clipping technology. Ceiling clipping technology is a cheap method that is used to reinforce ceilings using a conventional method. The clips are attached to the main base of the ceiling and improve the holding capacity of the ceiling material. These clips are affordable, easy to install and produces an aesthetic appeal to the house interior.

Seismic-isolating methods. This process involves the use of technology that reduces the effect of shake produced by an earthquake on a structure. It involves the use of seismic-isolating devices and technology. Some of the devices that can be used include rubber and lead which can absorb the shock produced during earthquakes. These devices can reduce the level of structure vibration to about one third to one fifth during an earthquake.

Acquaint with relevant shake control measures. Various effects result from a shaking building. This risk can be reduced through the installation of a tank or a heavy material on the top of a building and using ceiling damping devices. Building owners can as well adopt built-in dampers which are external braces that have built-in damping systems.

Ensure that you are compliant with all the regulations provided. Most construction authorities expect all non-ductile buildings to be retrofitted within a given window. Failure to observe these regulations within the stipulated period, the respective buildings can end up being demolished. Therefore, building owners should hire experienced companies to analyze their structure and decide on the most suitable retrofitting measure.




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