Seismic Isolators : Isolating the catastrophe
Technology

Seismic Isolators : Isolating the catastrophe

Though 81 percent of the strongest earthquakes on earth occur along the circum-Pacific seismic belt, which is often referred to as the "Ring of Fire." The Alpine-Himalayan seismic belt extending up to Andaman-Nicobar island region, is also known to be one of the seismically active belts of the world.

Due to a surge in development activities brought on by urbanisation, economic expansion, and the globalisation of India's economy, the risk of earthquakes has increased. After an earthquake, severe financial losses that cause the local or regional economy to collapse could have long-term negative effects on the entire nation. In the event that a megacity like Delhi or Mumbai is affected by an earthquake, this effect would be amplified even further.

All the elements of the built environment including tall buildings have to constantly remain in the shadow of tremors which can cause havoc, in such cases use of seismic isolators can reduce the intensity of damage caused by an earthquake and minimise the loss of life and property.

Seismic isolation is the process of installing isolation devices beneath a building to shield it from major earthquakes. Japan has used it to good effect. The number of seismic isolated buildings exceeds 4000. The National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo was built in 1958 by Shimizu Corporation and was originally designed by Le Corbusier, a well-known architect of the 20th century. In 1998, the seismic isolation retrofit was used to renovate this museum . The seismic isolation retrofit was first implemented in Japan at the National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo.

Since the 1980s, the seismic isolation method has been studied and used in buildings. The columns and beams of the conventional earthquake-resistant design are constructed to be sturdy and adaptable enough to withstand earthquake motions. This method is used to design and construct the vast majority of buildings. When a typical building experiences a powerful earthquake, it may be able to avert collapse and save its occupants' lives. However, the building's furnishings and equipment will almost certainly fall, and the building's structural components may sustain significant damage.

Under the building, isolation devices are installed to separate the structure from earthquake motions. The building's shaking can be significantly reduced with seismic isolation. Laminate rubber bearings have made it possible to use the seismic isolation method.

In order to lessen the bearings' deformation in the event of an earthquake, the seismic isolation method requires the installation of energy-absorbing devices alongside laminated rubber bearings. Layers of rubber and steel make up a lead-rubber bearing, which has a solid lead plug in the center. The lead plug is a device for absorbing energy. Special rubbers are used in high-damping rubber bearings to significantly dampen motion and dissipate energy.

Across India the feasibility of using seismic isolators needs to be studied carefully. A lot of buildings can use this method to shield themselves from the severe impact of earthquakes. These retrofits should also be a part of the smart cities mission to make existing and upcoming cities smarter.

Though 81 percent of the strongest earthquakes on earth occur along the circum-Pacific seismic belt, which is often referred to as the Ring of Fire. The Alpine-Himalayan seismic belt extending up to Andaman-Nicobar island region, is also known to be one of the seismically active belts of the world. Due to a surge in development activities brought on by urbanisation, economic expansion, and the globalisation of India's economy, the risk of earthquakes has increased. After an earthquake, severe financial losses that cause the local or regional economy to collapse could have long-term negative effects on the entire nation. In the event that a megacity like Delhi or Mumbai is affected by an earthquake, this effect would be amplified even further. All the elements of the built environment including tall buildings have to constantly remain in the shadow of tremors which can cause havoc, in such cases use of seismic isolators can reduce the intensity of damage caused by an earthquake and minimise the loss of life and property. Seismic isolation is the process of installing isolation devices beneath a building to shield it from major earthquakes. Japan has used it to good effect. The number of seismic isolated buildings exceeds 4000. The National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo was built in 1958 by Shimizu Corporation and was originally designed by Le Corbusier, a well-known architect of the 20th century. In 1998, the seismic isolation retrofit was used to renovate this museum . The seismic isolation retrofit was first implemented in Japan at the National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo. Since the 1980s, the seismic isolation method has been studied and used in buildings. The columns and beams of the conventional earthquake-resistant design are constructed to be sturdy and adaptable enough to withstand earthquake motions. This method is used to design and construct the vast majority of buildings. When a typical building experiences a powerful earthquake, it may be able to avert collapse and save its occupants' lives. However, the building's furnishings and equipment will almost certainly fall, and the building's structural components may sustain significant damage. Under the building, isolation devices are installed to separate the structure from earthquake motions. The building's shaking can be significantly reduced with seismic isolation. Laminate rubber bearings have made it possible to use the seismic isolation method. In order to lessen the bearings' deformation in the event of an earthquake, the seismic isolation method requires the installation of energy-absorbing devices alongside laminated rubber bearings. Layers of rubber and steel make up a lead-rubber bearing, which has a solid lead plug in the center. The lead plug is a device for absorbing energy. Special rubbers are used in high-damping rubber bearings to significantly dampen motion and dissipate energy. Across India the feasibility of using seismic isolators needs to be studied carefully. A lot of buildings can use this method to shield themselves from the severe impact of earthquakes. These retrofits should also be a part of the smart cities mission to make existing and upcoming cities smarter.

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

REC Transfers HVDC Project to Power Grid

REC Limited has successfully handed over the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for a High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission project to Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL). This strategic move aligns with the nation's objectives to strengthen its power transmission network. Key Highlights: Project Overview: The HVDC project, under the inter-state transmission system (ISTS) initiative, is a critical component of India's push toward robust and efficient electricity transmission. It aims to handle bulk power transfer across long distances while ensuring minimal losses. Role of RE..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

NF Railway Collaborates with IIT Guwahati

The Northeast Frontier (NF) Railway has signed strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with IIT Guwahati to foster technological advancements and improve railway operations in the region. This partnership focuses on innovative solutions to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in rail infrastructure. Key Highlights: Purpose of MoUs: The collaboration aims to leverage IIT Guwahati's expertise in technology and research for implementing cutting-edge solutions across railway operations. Key areas of focus include: Automation and digitization in maintenance. Sustainability initiati..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Danapur Division Modernization Plans Revealed

The Railway Board has unveiled ambitious plans for the expansion and modernization of the Danapur Division, a critical hub under the East Central Railway. The initiative focuses on infrastructure development, enhanced passenger amenities, and operational efficiency. Key Highlights: Scope of Modernization: The Railway Board's blueprint emphasizes: Upgrading existing infrastructure to accommodate more passenger and freight traffic. Improving station facilities, such as platforms, waiting areas, and connectivity. Introducing advanced signal systems for safer and smoother operations. Freig..

Hi There!

"Now get regular updates from CW Magazine on WhatsApp!

Join the CW WhatsApp channel for the latest news, industry events, expert insights, and project updates from the construction and infrastructure industry.

Click the link below to join"

+91 81086 03000