When a seismic protection system is implemented for structures, the first step is to carry out the engineering design in accordance with this system. In conventional seismic design methods, the preferred approach is to design rigid structures. That is, the structure is designed to be exceptionally rigid in order to withstand all seismic, wind, and other environmental loads.
However, in modern methods—such as base isolation, Tuned Mass Dampers (TMD), and similar solutions—the structure is designed to be relatively lightweight. This is because the impact of earthquake and wind loads on the structure will be absorbed by the products utilized in the selected method. For instance, if the base isolation method is chosen, the seismic loads acting on the structure will be absorbed by the bearings (isolators). Consequently, the structure no longer requires a rigid design as before.
At ESDESCON LLC, we are fully prepared to provide complete engineering support for the seismic design required when implementing modern seismic protection methods.
