Design charts for eurocode-based design of elastomeric seismic isolation systems

Abstract

In the past decade, base isolation technology has been widely adopted for protection of structures in earthquake-prone areas of Europe and of Italy in particular. Due do the devastating effects of seismic events, it is deemed necessary to furtherly encourage the design of seismic isolation systems among practitioners. For this purpose, a Eurocode based design procedure for laminated rubber bearings is proposed in this work. An overview of the design process is derived to demonstrate the extension of current seismic provisions and develop an effective and easy to use procedure for constructions with different axial load. A design method, based on a stress approach and including stability checks, is discussed according to latest version of European seismic code and translated into comprehensive design charts for a given set of isolator mechanical properties and hazard levels. Correction factors have been provided to adjust the chart design values according to effective isolators’ properties and actual seismic hazard parameters. An example is proposed do demonstrate the usefulness of the method and the applicability of commercially available devices.