Seismic retrofitting is the process that is used to modify existing buildings to be more resistant to seismic activities. Also, this technique makes the building more resistant to soil failure and ground motion. Therefore, the structures will not be affected in case of any seismic activities. Most people are now demanding for this technique, especially in urban settings. This has led to the establishment of so many earthquake retrofit companies. This is because of the high demand. There are several techniques used for the retrofitting. Some of the most common ones are listed below.
To begin with, the first PRESS approved technique is called external post-tensioning. This is a method that has been applied for many decades since its approval. In case you are wondering, PRESS is research body that has been there for decades, and it operates in Japan and the U. S of A. The scientists spent sleepless nights looking for ways to curb the impact of seismic activities.
The second technique is called the base isolation that uses base isolators. This is done by collecting structural elements of the building. These elements are then used to substantially decouple the structure of the building from the shaking ground. Therefore, the integrity of the building is enhanced as well as its seismic performance. The seismic engineering technology can thus be applied in any building to make it more resistant.
The third method is by the use of supplementary dampers. These dampers absorb the energy and motion during seismic activities. The absorbed energy is converted to heat. Therefore, the effects are damped into the structures that are attached to the ground rigidly. Nevertheless, when the damping process continues for several years, the building can become weak. All in all, this is also a very effective technique.
TMD is another fundamental technique used by retrofitting companies. Tuned mass-dampers are used in this case. Normally, movable weights that are attached to devices that have spring-like structures in them are used. These are applied in skyscrapers to prevent them from swaying during strong winds. Hence, it is very effective in big cities where there are so many tall buildings.
The fifth technique is known as slosh tank. Here, a large tank, called a sloshing tank, is filled with a low viscous liquid like water. Then, the tank is taken to a part of the structure that there are lateral motions that are significant, like the roof. It thus counters all the dynamic motions that may take place.
Another technique is called the active control system. This is applied in very tall buildings. Usually, modern buildings are built with light-weight materials. Therefore, they might sway during seismic activities or certain wind conditions. This is where this technique is applied to prevent the tall building from swaying.
These and many other techniques are used today to strengthen buildings. Hence, if you happen to live in areas prone to earth movements, soil failure or strong winds, protect your house. You can use the most appropriate method for your structure. The retrofitting company will advise you on the best.
To begin with, the first PRESS approved technique is called external post-tensioning. This is a method that has been applied for many decades since its approval. In case you are wondering, PRESS is research body that has been there for decades, and it operates in Japan and the U. S of A. The scientists spent sleepless nights looking for ways to curb the impact of seismic activities.
The second technique is called the base isolation that uses base isolators. This is done by collecting structural elements of the building. These elements are then used to substantially decouple the structure of the building from the shaking ground. Therefore, the integrity of the building is enhanced as well as its seismic performance. The seismic engineering technology can thus be applied in any building to make it more resistant.
The third method is by the use of supplementary dampers. These dampers absorb the energy and motion during seismic activities. The absorbed energy is converted to heat. Therefore, the effects are damped into the structures that are attached to the ground rigidly. Nevertheless, when the damping process continues for several years, the building can become weak. All in all, this is also a very effective technique.
TMD is another fundamental technique used by retrofitting companies. Tuned mass-dampers are used in this case. Normally, movable weights that are attached to devices that have spring-like structures in them are used. These are applied in skyscrapers to prevent them from swaying during strong winds. Hence, it is very effective in big cities where there are so many tall buildings.
The fifth technique is known as slosh tank. Here, a large tank, called a sloshing tank, is filled with a low viscous liquid like water. Then, the tank is taken to a part of the structure that there are lateral motions that are significant, like the roof. It thus counters all the dynamic motions that may take place.
Another technique is called the active control system. This is applied in very tall buildings. Usually, modern buildings are built with light-weight materials. Therefore, they might sway during seismic activities or certain wind conditions. This is where this technique is applied to prevent the tall building from swaying.
These and many other techniques are used today to strengthen buildings. Hence, if you happen to live in areas prone to earth movements, soil failure or strong winds, protect your house. You can use the most appropriate method for your structure. The retrofitting company will advise you on the best.
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