June 5, 2009

China quake simulator is world’s largest

BEIJING

The world’s largest vibration simulation centre has began construction at Shanghai’s Tongji University.

The centre will be able to test the quake-proof capabilities of the city’s skyscrapers and stadiums more accurately, and observe the effects of earthquakes on long structures such as bridges, subways and tunnels.

“With a larger total bearing ability, we can set up a bigger and more elaborate model of a structure to put on the vibrators,” Li Jianzhong, professor of civil and structural engineering, said. “It will allow us to see more clearly how a structure is damaged.”

The centre’s four vibrating platforms will be able to carry 200 tonnes, almost double the capacity of the current largest at the University of Nevada, Reno, in the United States. Simulator at Beijing’s China Academy of Building Research and Chongqing’s Communications Research and Design Institute can bear up to 70 tonnes.

DCN News Services

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