Bridge Seismic isolation systems 1

[KOKONIS36]

The Eradiquake Sliding isolation bearing and the Elastoplastic seismic isolation system are the least Known seismic isolation systems for bridges.What are their advantages and disadvantages ?

 

[Qshake]

Isn't Eradiquake sliding system manufactured by R.J. Watson? Or Watson-Bowman?

The advantages that I like about the sliding system are:

1. Low profile, which mitigates stability concerns under large displacements.
2. The bearing isn't coupled to shear stiffness of a elastomeric system and so can be placed in areas of confined nature yet still perform. On the other hand if you use lead-rubber the stiffness is derived from shear deformation of the rubber, which means that for large displacements you must have a tall bearing. In many cases, you don't have that much room to allow the bearing to perform as required. This sometimes means using costly frictionless sliders such as PTFE bearings.

Regards,
Qshake

Eng-Tips Forums:Real Solutions for Real Problems Really Quick.

 

[KOKONIS36]

Yes ,this is R.J.Watson system,otherwise Known as EQS.I can understand its advantages.What about its disadvantages ?

 

[Qshake]

I haven't heard of any disadvantages. I suppose that the bearings could become large in plan dimensions, more so than what you have to work with.

Another disadvantage is that the spring material may be susceptible to degradation as it is a type of plastic derivitive. But I don't know that for certain.

I've worked with this company before and have found them to be good to work with and accommodating on what I've needed in terms of matching the performance I was looking for.

Regards,
Qshake

Eng-Tips Forums:Real Solutions for Real Problems Really Quick.