Methods 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.

Use relevant measures to reinforce the columns. Buildings which have column support are supposed to be augmented using different measures. This includes measures such use of reinforced concrete, steel plate winding, aramid fiber, and carbon fiber. Carbon fiber and aramid are the best measures since they are easy to install and do not add a lot of weight to the building foundation.

Consider bracing the building using steel. Steel bracing is a common method that is used in strengthening the building against seismic movements. Columns are braced using X-shaped steel braces inserted between the columns and beams. The use of steel is lighter compared with the addition of resisting earthquake. It also allows light inside the building through the opening formed by the steel braces.

Reinforce weak concrete walls. Weak walls can be a great menace to a non-ductile wall. Therefore, they need to be reinforced with reinforced concrete to strengthen them. Such measure is less costly and effective since it is done to weak walls only. The weight that is added through this method can also enhance the resistance of a building if the foundation is strong enough to withstand the pressure. Otherwise, it can be a great risk if the total building exceeds the foundation capacity.

Clip the ceiling. Ceiling clipping prevents collapsing of the roof during seismic activity. The respective clips are installed on an existing structure and can be installed using the conventional process. These clips are affordable and can add an aesthetic appeal to the interior of a building. They do not have any big effect on the structure of a building as well.

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.

Consider the shake control measure. This kind of technology provides relevant measures to control the shaking of a building. It involves measures such as the installation of a large water tank on the roof or a suspended mass in the roof. Besides that, a ceiling damping method is used to control the shaking of the ceiling. It can as well use a built-in dumper which is installed at the exterior part of a building.

Comply with the regulations provided by construction authorities. Authorities that are responsible for building in areas which are prone to earthquakes have provided regulations related retrofitting measures. It is important to acquaint with them and implement them early enough to avoid the demolition of your building due to non-compliance.




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