Using springs in construction to prevent disaster
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Natural disasters can be devastating for communities and infrastructure. In the past, buildings have been ill-equipped to face earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods, but as technology advances so too does the possibility for greater resilience.
In areas that frequently experience these sorts of conditions, designers are coming up with new and innovative ways to create structures that can withstand such disasters to a certain extent.
[edit] Resisting earthquakes with base isolation
Building structures that are resilient to earthquakes is of utmost importance in some regions, as collapse of structures causes most earthquake-related deaths. As the seismic waves cause the ground to shake, buildings can partially or completely collapse.
There have been a number of solutions suggested or put into practice by architects. One of these methods is known as base isolation and involves using a system of springs or bearings which effectively float the building above its foundations. As the building is attached to the foundations by a flexible yet strong material, when an earthquake hits, the structure is able to move slightly without being disconnected from its foundations.
This method has been used in practice, and a house in Santa Monica, California benefited during the Northridge earthquake of 1994.
[edit] Withstanding typhoon winds with tuned mass dampers
As buildings and structures continue to grow in height, it has become increasingly important to find ways to protect them from strong winds, typhoons and hurricanes.
Taipei 101 is one of the tallest buildings in the world and held the title of world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010 when Burj Khalifa was constructed.
It stands at 508 m (1,667 ft) tall and has 101 floors. Due to the height of the structure, it was essential to ensure its ability to withstand typhoon winds and earthquake tremors. This was achieved through the installation of a tuned mass damper. These are typically created from concrete blocks which use a spring mechanism to move in opposition to the resonance frequency oscillations of the structures.
The tuned mass damper in the Taipei 101 consists of a steel pendulum weighing 660 metric tonnes. This is suspended from the 92nd to the 88th floor and sways to decrease resonant amplifications of lateral displacements in the building. This movement helps to protect the building from the effects of earthquakes and strong winds.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Citigroup Center.
- Compression springs.
- Design Flexibility.
- Future Proofing Construction.
- Key qualities of springs.
- Managing and Responding to Disaster.
- Planning for Floods.
- Resilience.
- Risk in Building Design and Construction.
- Spring materials.
- Taipei 101.
- Torsion springs and their benefits.
--European Springs and Pressings Ltd 12:10, 18 Aug 2017 (BST)
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
Comments