Shaking Table Test Study on Seismic Responses of Base-Isolated Buildings under Near-Fault Ground Motions

Abstract

The shaking table tests of a 1:7 scale model of three-floor steel frame base-isolated building was completed to study the seismic responses of base-isolated buildings under near-fault ground motions. Under the action of the typical near-fault seismic wave, the seismic responses of base-isolated structures increase with the increase of PGA. The maximum story displacements of super-structure decrease with increase of story. The velocity pulse has an adverse effect to acceleration responses of base-isolated structures. The isolation effect of base-isolated super-structures is still favorable under near-fault ground motions, but it will be necessary to add damping in isolation system or limit the displacement of bearings to prevent the excessive deformation of isolation layer.