Shake-Table Tests Prove 'Rocking' Frame

摘要

Performance-based seismic design is on a roll, thanks to recent, first-of-their-kind shake-table tests that proved the viability of a "rocking" braced frame that moves seismic design beyond life safety toward build-for-repair. The steel frame not only survived shaking that was 1.75 times stronger than the Northridge earthquake, it returned to its original plumb position after shaking, thanks to post-tensioned strands. Damage was limited to a replaceable fuse, as planned.