Seismic Evaluation Of Equipment Supporting Structures

Abstract

Industrial buildings are commonly subjected to forces induced by machine vibrations, earthquake and wind loads. There are number of equipments which have vibrating actions and at the same time tall enough to withstand the wind and earthquake forces. This study deals with the 37m high vessel supported on two storey RC frame. The structure was modeled using STAAD PRO 2007. Equivalent lateral forces for model structure were calculated according to seismic provisions for Lahore. The anchorage mechanism between vertical vessels and table top foundation is studied in detail for earthquake induced loading. Anchorage mechanism was designed on ductile failure of stud and bolt. This study revealed that seismic forces on equipment supporting structures are 20 to 30 % more than ordinary structures due to low lateral force resistance factor. Design of heavy equipment is primarily governed by large overturning moments. The tilting effect due to heavy equipment loads is catered by proper anchorages to ensure the safe performance under the severe earthquakes. The conclusions will also be useful for the structural designers involved in the design of such industrial buildings