COLBUN S.A.

ETG - 1.111
GENERAL TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
SEISMIC DESIGN

COLBUN S.A.
ETG - 1.111

ETG - 1.111
GENERAL TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
SEISMIC DESIGN

CONTENT
CLAUSE

SUBJECT

PAGE

1. GENERAL APPLICATION DISPOSITIONS.................................................................................1

1.1. Object and Application Field..............................................................................................1
1.2. Seismic Categories.............................................................................................................1
1.3. Seismic Intensity of Design................................................................................................3
1.4. Linear Response Spectrum................................................................................................4
1.5. Damping...............................................................................................................................5
1.6. Analysis Procedures...........................................................................................................5
1.6.2.

Static Method........................................................................................................7

1.6.3.

Dynamic Method.................................................................................................10

1.7. Calculation Report............................................................................................................13

2. SEISMIC SPECIFICATIONS FOR ELECTRIC AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT...................17
2.1. Scope

..............................................................................................................................17

2.2. Seismic Intensity of Design..............................................................................................17

2.3. Seismic Categories...........................................................................................................17
2.3.1.

Category A...........................................................................................................17

2.3.2.

Category B...........................................................................................................20

2.4. Analysis Methods..............................................................................................................22

2.4.1.

General................................................................................................................22

2.4.2.

Simultaneous actions with a seism...................................................................23

2.5. Robust Equipment.............................................................................................................23

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2.5.1.

General................................................................................................................23

2.5.2.

Robust equipment founded on firm land.........................................................23

2.5.3.

Robust equipment founded on alluvial or soft soils.......................................24

2.5.4.

Robust equipment assembled in buildings......................................................25

2.6. Special Dispositions for Some Main Equipment ...........................................................26

2.6.1.

Steam Boilers......................................................................................................26

2.6.2.

Pipelines and ducts............................................................................................27

2.6.3.

Tanks and deposits............................................................................................29

2.6.4.

Floodgates...........................................................................................................30

2.6.5.

Traveling crane...................................................................................................31

2.7. Electric Substation Equipment........................................................................................31

2.7.1.

Seism actions of drawings.................................................................................32

2.7.2.

Subdue response spectrum..............................................................................32

2.7.3.

Verification and qualification procedure..........................................................33

2.7.4.

Material characteristics......................................................................................33

2.7.5.

Rigid equipment. Static analysis.......................................................................35

2.7.6.

Static method without verification of fundamental frequency........................36

2.7.7.

Seismic qualification methods for equipment to which static analysis is not

applicable. ..............................................................................................................................37
2.7.8.

Seismic tests on vibratory table........................................................................39

2.7.9.

Alternative tests on vibratory table...................................................................47

2.7.10.

Minimum tests of horizontal resistance............................................................48

2.7.11. Seismic test of relays, instruments and control devices..........................................49

2.7.12. Modal dynamic analysis spectral...............................................................................50
2.7.13. Simultaneous actions with seism..............................................................................51
2.7.14. Mechanical coupling stress........................................................................................52
2.8. Anchorage and Supports.................................................................................................53
2.9. Admissible Strain..............................................................................................................54
3. SEISMIC DESIGN OF CIVIL WORKS.......................................................................................54
3.1. Scope

..............................................................................................................................54

3.2. Seismic intensity of Design..............................................................................................55

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3.3. Seismic Categories...........................................................................................................55

3.4. Design Spectrum...............................................................................................................57
3.5. Analysis Procedures.........................................................................................................60
3.6. Secondary Systems Assembled on a Structure.............................................................62
3.7. Soils Susceptible to Liquefaction....................................................................................62
3.8. Barriers and Dams in Concrete with Little Height..........................................................63
3.9. Earth Dams and Rockfill...................................................................................................65
3.9.1.

General................................................................................................................65

3.9.2.

Analysis procedures...........................................................................................66

3.10.

Retaining walls....................................................................................................66

3.10.1. Generality......................................................................................................................66
3.10.2. Deformable walls. Formulas for Thrust....................................................................68
3.10.3.

Stiff Walls............................................................................................................71

3.10.4.

Action line of thrust...........................................................................................71

3.10.5.

Seismic coefficient Kh and Kv ...........................................................................72

3.11.

Underground Works...........................................................................................73

3.12.

Outdoors Pipelines.............................................................................................74

3.13.

Intake towers.......................................................................................................75

3.14.

Chimneys.............................................................................................................77

3.14.1.

General................................................................................................................77

3.14.2.

Spectral Modal Analysis.....................................................................................78

3.14.3.

Static Method Analysis.......................................................................................79

3.15.

Silos, Chute and Bins.........................................................................................81

3.15.1.

Election of Analysis Procedures.......................................................................81

3.15.2

Static Method......................................................................................................81

3.15.3

Dynamic Method.................................................................................................82

3.15.4

Installations and Equipment..............................................................................82

3.15.5

Reinforced Concrete Structures.......................................................................82

3.16.

Cooling Towers...................................................................................................83

3.17.

Cylindric Tanks of Great Capacity Directly Founded on Soil.........................84

3.18.

Elevated Tanks....................................................................................................87

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3.19.

BRIDGES.............................................................................................................88

3.19.1.

Scope...................................................................................................................88

3.19.2.

Analysis Methods................................................................................................89

3.19.3.

Response Modification Coefficient...................................................................91

3.19.4.

Clearance and Overlap.......................................................................................91

3.19.5.

Vertical Seismic Actions.....................................................................................91

3.19.6.

Braces..................................................................................................................92

3.20.

BUILDINGS..........................................................................................................92

3.20.1.

General................................................................................................................92

3.20.2.

Machine House...................................................................................................92

3.20.3.

Boilers supporting structures...........................................................................93

COLBUN S.A.
ETG - 1.111

ETG - 1.111
GENERAL TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
SEISMIC DESIGN

1.

GENERAL APPLICABLE DISPOSITIONS.

1.1. Object and Field of Application.

The current Specification establishes the General Conditions that shall complied in the
seismic design of buildings, civil works, mechanical equipment, electric equipment and
its respective supporting structures, anchorages, connections and foundations.
Determines moreover, when applicable, the tests, trials and qualification procedures that
equipment mentioned shall be submitted to verify their compliance with resistance
conditions, operation capacity and others established by these specifications.
The special seismic conditions valid for the works or equipment specified will be subject
of the Special Technical Specifications which prescriptions will prevail over the current
Specification. This last one will govern everything that doesnt oppose to the Special
Technical Specifications applicable to the referred work or equipment.
This Specification is not applicable to works that due to their economic dimensions, their
particularities or risk magnitude implicated, require special studies for assessment of
seismic design parameters or analyze its response, such as, e.g., nuclear power
stations and equipment destined to them, large dam walls, specially if its failure may
endanger human township sited downstream.

1.2. Seismic Categories.

For the purpose of its seismic design, the works and equipment are classified in the

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categories described as follows:

Category A.
Equipment and Works which operation is specially important during and immediately
after an earthquake or that in the event of a failure could endanger the life of a great
number of persons or cause economic losses, direct or indirect, exceptionally high when
compared with the cost of increasing their safety (e.g.: generation equipment).
Equipment and works which failure, malfunction or restoration needs are definitive
cause of failure, malfunction or lack of operation capacity of other equipment or work
already included in category A. Elements which operation during the emergency
subsequent to an earthquake are indispensable for saving, rescue and assistance tasks
or service replenishment (e.g.: fire fighting systems, stationary batteries, emergency
power plant units, access bridges without alternative routes, spare parts warehouses
specially necessary in case of seismic emergency). Finally, is also part of this category
the places that store expensive equipment in respect to the structure (e.g.: machine
houses of hydroelectric power plants).
Category B.
Equipment necessary for the normal and continuous operation of the unit to which they
belong, but which failure, malfunction or restoration need affects the operation of
equipment that should remain in operation during an earthquake or in the subsequent
emergency (e.g.: hydraulic grid, disconnecting switches from 1 to 23 kV). The failure,
malfunction or restoration needs as consequence of seismic movements, of category B
equipment may be tolerated when imply in transitory interruption of power supply, which
could be supplied using the redundancy of the interconnected transmission and
distribution system.
The seismic design requisites for equipment of this category are for them to not collapse
and to be properly anchored according to the provisions of clause 2.8., in such way that
under no event their failure could affect equipment from category A.

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Also belong to category B the constructions which failure would result in intermediary
magnitude losses; buildings destined for housing or workshops, but where usually there
is no agglomeration of people; permanent warehouses to store material and equipment,
with exception for materials or essential spare parts in the event of seismic emergency;
constructions which failure is the exact cause of the failure or lack of operation of works
or equipment classified as category B, but that dont affect those from category A.
Permanent bridges in none essential routes.
Category C.
Equipment which failure doesnt result in malfunction of category A or B equipment that,
additionally, are not indispensable for the continuous operation of the operative or
functional set to which they belong. The seismic design requisite shall only need to
anchor them adequately according to the provisions of clause 2.8 to exclude the
possibility of damage or equipment from categories A or B.
Isolated or provisional constructions, not destined for dwelling and not classified in
categories A or B (such as provisional bridges, material warehouses in construction
sites, etc.) and which failure could cause damages or malfunction to the works or
equipment from categories A or B.

1.3. Seismic Intensity of Design.

For design purposes, the seismic intensity at the work site will be characterized
according to parameters a, v, d that represent, respectively, the maximum absolute
values of acceleration, of speed and horizontal displacement on the ground surface.
The values of a, v y d will be established in the Special Technical Specifications of the
work to which they refer, meeting the classification of seismic categories referred in
clause 1.2.
When dealing with works for which a Specific Technical Specification has not been
issued for a seismic design, as well as also in the event of standardized equipment that
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could be installed in places with different seismic conditions, the analysis will be based
on the horizontal movement parameters of the ground that are listed next:
Seismic Category

a/g

v(cm/s)

d(cm)

0.50

35

25

0.40

30

20

0.30

20

15

1.4. Linear Response Spectrum.

In general, the seismic strain will be determined by calculation, as of the response

spectrum subdue by the systems with a degree of freedom, linearly elastic with viscous
damping proportional to a relative speed. Such spectrums will be defined in the
respective Special Technical Specifications together with the seismic intensity
parameters. The exceptions to such rule are those indicated next.
a)

Standardized equipment for which there is a reasonable expectation that they

could be destined to places which seismic intensity of design could not be
determined beforehand.

b)

Works for which a Special Technical Specification for seismic design has not
been issued.

In these cases, the seismic strains shall be determined as of the linear response
spectrum of Figure 1.
The spectrums of the figure mentioned are valid for works or equipment comprised in
any of the exceptions recently registered and that, moreover belong to the seismic
category A. If consists of works or equipment from categories B or C, the ordinate of
the curves from Figure 1 will be multiplied, respectively by 0.8 and by 0.6. For damping
values not diagramed in the figure, the spectrum ordinate may be obtained by linear
interpolation of the curves.

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In all cases, the seismic category and the damping value employed in the determination
of spectrum ordinates shall count with the approval of the Head Inspector.

1.5. Damping.
For the assessment of the seismic response of linear systems or that reasonably could
be analyzed as if they were, it could be employed in the calculation of damping values
z, expressed as percentage of critical damping, not greater that those provided in Table
1.1 (p.23), without needing greater justification. Values greater than those mentioned
may be admitted, whenever justified by tests or trials in which stress and deformation
levels have been achieved compatible with the application that will be made in the
calculations of the results of such tests or trials. This justification will be especially
demandable when the system (structure or equipment) submitted to study is equipped
with elements specially destined to dissipate energy; the dissipation properties
supposed in the calculation shall have in such case an experimental fundament.
The maximum damping values that could be employed, without needing greater
justification, in the seismic analysis of electric equipment that contain fragile elements,
such as bushings, porcelain insulators, will be those specified in clause 2.7.12.

1.6. Analysis Procedures.

1.6.1. General.
The procedures specified in clauses 1.6.2 and 1.6.3 are applicable when the main
effects of the seismic action are due to inertia forces developed at the work site,
structure or equipment analyzed, as direct consequence of the land vibration
movement.
Such procedures are not applicable when the effects of the inertia forces are
despicable, such as, for example, in some underground works (buried pipelines, tunnel

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and caves, etc.).

The procedures of clauses 1.6.2 and 1.6.3., with the necessary modifications and
complementation when dealing with structures exposed to hydro-dynamic effects
caused by the seismic action (liquid deposits with free surface, floodgates, barriers, dam
walls, etc.) or when the interaction effects of soil and structure introduce significant
modifications in the seismic response (chimneys, cooling towers, etc.), constitute the
minimum demandable in respect to seismic analysis of mechanical equipment, electric
equipment, none underground civil works, buildings and outdoors structures in general.
Other methods or procedures of seismic analysis will be acceptable whenever they
comply with the corresponding Special Technical Specifications.
Clauses 1.6.2 and 1.6.3 refer, respectively, to static method and dynamic method of
analysis. In general, and preferentially, the static method will be adopted.
For the works belonging to seismic categories A or B, the dynamic method will be
obligatory only when the irregular distribution of the mass or of the rigidity or any special
particularity have to be necessarily employed. When such is applicable it will be
expressed in the corresponding Special Technical Specification.
The dynamic method will not be demandable for equipment or works classified in
seismic category C.
For mechanical and electric equipment, the delimitation of the application fields of the
static and dynamic methods is made according to Chapter 2 (clause 2.4.).

1.6.2.Static Method.

In the static method, the effects of seismic actions will assimilate to constant forces
(independent of time) proportional to the weights of the several parts of the system
analyzed and applied in the respective gravity centers. The horizontal components of
these forces will be presumed as acting all in a same direction, in the horizontal

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direction to which is being performed the analysis; the vertical components will be
considered driven all upwards or all downwards, according to the situations that result
most unfavorable for the element submitted to inspection. The analysis shall be
repeated inverting the direction of the horizontal forces to cover the most unfavorable
cases for several elements of the work or its anchorages.
In general will only be necessary to perform the analysis for each one of the horizontal
directions mutually orthogonal or approximately orthogonal, considered separate and
independently. Though, when at the opinion of the Head Inspector the peculiarities of
the system consider necessary, the analysis according to horizontal directions shall also
be performed that, at his criterion are potentially critical.
A.

Basal Level.
The basal level will be defined as the horizontal plan in which is applied the
seismic action.
When the system being studied is directly supported on the ground, the basal
level will be the horizontal plan in which are mutually balanced the horizontal
resultants of the inertia forces and the reactions of the foundation soil. Currently,
the basal level will correspond to the foundation seal; the exceptions to this rule
shall be justified meeting the specific conditions of lateral confinement of the
cementation.
When referenced to equipment supported in buildings, the basal level will be the
floor in which they are anchored.

B.

Seismic Coefficient.
The force of the basal shear design, that is the resulting H of the horizontal
forces of the seismic design applied above the basal level, will be provided by
the formula:

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H = CW

(1)

where C is an adimensional number, denominated seismic design coefficient (for

horizontal actions) and W is, in general lines, is the sum of weights sited above
the basal level, including the elements rigidly adhered to the system and total or
part of the overload or content. The necessary precisions to define W more
strictly as well as the procedure that shall be followed to determine the seismic
coefficient is provided in the adequate places of chapters 2 and 3.
Generally, the seismic coefficient C will be a function of the fundamental period
of the system and the proportionality coefficients between the horizontal seismic
forces and the weights of the respective parts will not be necessarily the same
for all of them.
C.

Vertical distribution of horizontal seismic forces.

When considering very robust equipment, reasonably similar to rigid bodies (see
clause 2.5.1) and founded or anchored in such way that the rotation movement
of its base is despicable, it will be assumed that the horizontal seismic forces are
those that correspond to a uniform field of acceleration. The same hypothesis
will be accepted for the civil works that reasonable comply with the conditions
enunciated, such as gravitational concrete walls with little height founded over
rocks (spillway walls for example). In all of these cases the seismic horizontal
load Hp that acts over the part of the system identified upon the subscript p will
be provided by the formula.

H p = CW p =

H
Wp
W

(2)

where C is the seismic design coefficient of clause 1.6.2. B and W p is the weight
of the part considered.
When considering very robust equipment or structures but that could accept
rotation movements over its base with amplitudes of certain consideration, it will

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be assumed that the seismic horizontal forces that act over the several parts in
which the system has been split for its analysis are proportional jointly to the
weights and the heights of the parts over the basal level, according to the
following formula:

Hp =

hp W p H
i hi W i

where the sum is extended to all the parts considered and the symbols
employed have the meanings registered next:
H

shearing design force on the basal level.

Hp

horizontal seismic design force applied to the

gravity center of the part identified with the subscription p.

hi

height of the gravity center of the part identified with

the subscription i, referred to the basal level.

hp

height of the gravity center of the part identified with

the subscription p.
wi

weight of the gravity center of the part identified

with the subscription i.

Wp

weight of the gravity center of the part identified

with the subscription p.

In the buildings relatively flexible and in structures that are similar to buildings,
the vertical distribution will be employed of the Chilean standard NCH 433 of. 72
(clause 6.2.1.) whenever they satisfy the conditions that such standard
establishes for the static method to be applicable.

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D.

Vertical seismic forces.

Simultaneously with the horizontal forces are considered constant vertical
seismic forces, proportional to the weight of the several parts in which they are
subdivided, the systems for analysis, applied in the respective gravity centers
and driven all upward or all downward with the purpose of producing the most
unfavorable combinations for each one of the elements submitted to
examination.
The vertical seismic force V p that acts on the part of the system individualized by
the index p is provided by the formula.

V p = Cv W p

(4)

where W p is the weight of the part considered and C v is the seismic design
coefficient for the vertical actions (adimensional number independent from index
p).
The procedure that shall be followed to determine the seismic coefficient C v is
provided in adequate places of chapter 2 and 3.

1.6.3.Dynamic method.

In the dynamic method, the structure or equipment subject of analysis will be

represented by a linear model of concentrated parameters. Its not possible to provide
general validity guidelines in respect to the number of degrees of freedom that shall be
employed in the modeling, once such will depend of the mass distribution, rigidity and
damping among the parts of the system analyzed. In case of buildings, at least one
degree of freedom by floor will be employed: the corresponding to the displacement in
the horizontal direction to which the analysis is being performed.
With obvious exceptions, such as structures with vertical revolution symmetry, the

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minimum demandable in respect to the complexity of the analysis is to perform for the
seismic excitation acting in each of the horizontal directions, considered separate and
independent and that, for each one of them to determine at least by the three first
natural modes. In the systems with irregular distribution of mass or rigidity, whether in
plant or elevation, this minimum demand may be clearly insufficient; in such cases, the
Special Technical Specification will indicate which and how many degrees of freedom
shall be considered in the analysis and the number of natural modes that shall be
determined.
The determination by the calculation of natural frequencies and modal vectors that shall
be employed in the assessment of the response may be performed supposing that the
there is no damping.
To determine the size of each natural mode to the strains (internal forces, bending
moment, etc.), the basal shear force Hj will be calculated contributed by the j order
mode and by the formula:

Hj = Cj M j
(5)

where Cj is the modal seismic design coefficient for j mode, determined as indicated
ahead, and Mj is the mass of the equivalent modal oscillator calculated by the formula.
2
[ i mi ij ]
Mj =
2
i mi ( ij )

(6)
in which Fij is the movement amplitude of mass mi when such oscillates freely in mode j,
the index is to individualize the masses considered in the model and the sum includes
all masses.

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The coefficient Cj will be obtained from the formula:

Cj =

A (T j )
R

(7)

where A(TJ) is the ordinate of the linear response spectrum assessed for the period and
corresponding damping to the mode and R is a modification coefficient of the response
that complies with the triple purpose of considering the ductility of the structure,
consider the possibility of more than one resistance line and incorporate in the analysis
the experience related to the behavior of structures similar to the one analyzed when
facing real earthquakes.
In electric equipment with fragile components will be employed R = 1; i.e., the seismic
design strains will be those that correspond to the response assessed upon the linear
model.
For buildings, structures and civil works the values of R are specified in Chapter 3.
In general, the damping will be specified as a fraction of critical absorption for each one
of the modes considered in the analysis, without having to introduce them by means of
parameters concentrated in the mathematic model of the system. For the election of
the critical absorption fraction that will be employed in each case the indications of
clause 1.5 and Table 1.1 will be respected. This disposition is not applicable to electric
equipment with fragile components neither to systems that contain elements destined
specially to dissipate energy (mufflers); for such equipment and such systems, the
absorption shall be incorporated to the mathematic model by means of discrete
elements of linear behavior which absorption constant shall be elected according to the
level of strains and deformations. In the event of electric equipment with fragile
elements the conditions of clause 2.7.12 shall be respected related to damping.
The strain S resulting from the superposition of the modal strains Sj will be obtained by
the formula

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S=

1
2

| Sj | +

j=1

1
2

r 3

2
j

j=1

(8)
where r indicates the number of modes includes in the analysis.
The resultant seismic strains occasioned by the horizontal movement of the land in the
direction in which the dynamic analysis is being performed will overlap those due to
vertical seismic actions. In general, these last ones may assimilate to the static forces
in the form specified in clause 1.6.2. D. Exception to this rule is made for structures that
are sensible to the vertical vibratory movements, such as great projection, prestressed
beams, bridges with important spans, etc., for which is convenient to make a dynamic
analysis in the vertical direction. The cases in which the dynamic analysis in the vertical
direction results as obligatory will be indicated in the respective Special Technical
Specifications, which will indicate, additionally, the form of combining the resultant
strains of such analysis with those obtained in the seismic analysis for the horizontal
movement.

1.7. Calculation Report.

The General Conditions of calculation adopted, the analysis method followed, the load
combinations considered in the examination of structural elements, including its
anchorage and connections, and the acceptance or rejection criterions employed will be
clearly and orderly exposed in a calculation memo.
The standards, codes, regulations, specifications of material and equipment quality, test
or trial procedures and other documents that have served of base shall be mentioned in
a precise form.
When the conformity test with the standards or Specifications are based in all or in part
of the analytical procedures, these procedures are presented in the calculation report,
step by step, in such way that the analysis could be verified in each one of its stages.

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The calculation report will indicate the or those more unfavorable cases contemplated in
the verification of the demands regarding the resistance, admissible strains,
deformations, displacements, tightness and other functional requirements, as applicable
in each case.
The calculation report shall include the following backgrounds that will serve as
indispensable grounds for the formulation of the mathematic model that will be
employed in the analysis:

a) Geometric characteristics of the analyzed system: general dimensions of the main

components of the system, including structural elements and its incidence relations;
areas, resistant modules and inertia moments of cross-sections; clearance and
tolerances, as corresponds in each special case.

b) Edge conditions: for the system as a set and connection between elements that
constitute it.

c) Distribution of masses: of the parts and main components, elements rigidly adhered to
the structure, permanent loads and content, as corresponds in each special case.

d)

Mechanical characteristics of materials: elasticity modules, flow point of ductile

material, rupture resistance, etc.
When applying the dynamic method of analysis, the calculation memo shall contain a
clear and complete description of the mathematic model employed, in which is identified
the bearing elements of concentrated parameters (punctual masses, rigid bodies,
elastic, absorption, etc.), their coupling form and the external edge conditions. It shall
contain, additionally, a definition of local and global coordinates employed to describe
the system configuration. The horizontal directions will be individualized according to
which is supposed that is directed to the seismic action and will be provide the number
of modes calculated for each one of them.
In the calculation report the following results may not be missing: mass and rigidity
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matrix, frequencies and modal vectors, equivalent modal oscillator masses, participation
coefficient of the modes. Seismic strains will also be registered, in each one of the
elements submitted to verification, for each mode and each one of the analysis
directions, together with the strains resulting from modal spectral overlapping (clause
1.6.3.). The demandable verifications will be performed for the load status that includes
seismic action, explicitly stating their results.
If the calculations have been performed by computer, a description of the program
employed shall be provided (or access to the users manual guide) with enough detail to
verify the input data, interpret the results and determine if the calculations comply with
the current Specifications. The list submitted shall clearly identify the program
employed, the structure submitted to analysis, the input data, the final results, the units
used to express the physical magnitudes and the processing date.

Finally, the calculation report shall expressly register and outline that the prescriptions
contained in the current Specification and Special Technical have been complied when
applied.

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TABLE 1.1.
TYPICAL DAMPING VALUES
STRESS LEVEL
1. Low: Stress really below
the
proportionality
limit
(below 0.25 times the flow
point)
2. Medium: Stress not
greater to more or less half
the flow.

3. High: Stress in the flow or

right under the flow.

4. Flow Over Limit: with

permanent
deformations
greater
than
the
conventional
flow
deformation.
5. All levels: for sway
movement of structure as
whole.

TYPE AND STRUCTURE CONDITION

- Very important pipelines.
- Steel structure with welded or permanent
unions, without gliding the unions.
- Prestressed or reinforced concrete
structure, without cracking.
- Very important pipelines.
- Steel structure with welded unions
- Prestressed concrete: reinforced
concrete with small fissures.
- Reinforced concrete considerable
cracked.
- Steel structures with clinched or tighten
unions.
- Very important pipelines.
- Steel structures with welded unions or
prestressed concrete without complete
loss of pre-stress.
- Reinforced concrete structures:
prestressed concrete with total loss of prestress.
- Steel with clinched or tighten unions.
- Pipelines.
- Welded steel structures.
- Reinforced or prestressed concrete
structures.
- Clinched or tighten steel structures.
- Over rock, VS 1.800 m/sec. (.)
- Over firm land. VS 600 m/sec. (.)
- Over land with W S 600 m/sec. (.)

(.) VS: programming speed of transversal waves.

16

z%

0.5 - 1.0
1 - 2
2 - 3
3 - 5
5 - 7
2 -3
5 -7
7 - 10
10 - 15
5
7 - 10
10 - 15
20
2-5
5-7
7 - 10

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2.

SEISMIC SPECIFICATIONS FOR ELECTRIC AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT.

2.1. Scope.
The current chapter complements the provisions of Chapter 1 in respect to the General
Conditions for seismic verification and design of electric equipment, mechanical
equipment and its components, supporting structures, anchorages and structural
connections.
The prescriptions of the current chapter will prevail over those of Chapter 1 and, are
hereinafter subordinate to those provided in the corresponding applicable Special
Technical Specifications.

2.2. Seismic Design Intensity.

The seismic intensity of the design will be specified according to the prescriptions of
clause 1.3.

2.3. Seismic Categories.

The classification of electric and mechanical equipment in seismic categories will be, in
general, those indicated next, except when otherwise provided in the Special Technical
Specifications. When any specific equipment doesnt appear in the classification
indicated herein, the seismic category to be assigned to it will be the same assigned to
the equipment that belongs to its same operational or functional system. In case of
doubt, the most exigent category will be assigned.

2.3.1.Category A.
-

Hydraulic-generator turbine set and speed regulation system.

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Valves (globe, butterfly, others) of main intake, its connections and switching system.

Drainage spillway floodgates.

Bottom discharge floodgates.

Water intake service floodgate.

Insulation floodgates in machine caves.

Hermetic metallic doors, in intake tunnels.

Cooling system for power plants.

Steam boilers and its auxiliary equipment, such as: grinders, fans and air and gas ducts,
precipitators and coal and ash silos.

Steam-generator turbine set and its auxiliary, control and lubrication equipment.

Condenser and primary and secondary cooling equipment in steam plants.

Main steam, water and petroleum pipelines.

Tanks, pumps and pre-heaters of thermal cycle in steam power plants.

Water desalinization and treatment plants.

Coal unloading cranes in wharfs.

Gas-generator turbine set with auxiliary equipment.

Diesel-generator engine set with its auxiliary equipment.

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Emergency generator groups.

Synchronous generator excitation equipment.

Segregated or encapsulated phase bars.

Generator switching cells.

Power switches.

Power transformers.

Step-up transformers.

Auxiliary service transformers.

Pliers.

Disconnecting switches greater than 23 kV, including fusible disconnecting switches.

Re-connectors.

Lightning rods.

Insulator columns used as bar supports s.

Shielded substations and SF 6 insulators.

Shunt reactors.

Failure limiter rectors.

Relays.
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Coupling condensers.

Synchronous compensators and static compensators regulated by tiristors.

Wave Traps

Stationary batteries.

Battery loaders.

Single-phase inverters.

Auxiliary service cells a.c. and d.c.

Conventional control system.

Data supervision and acquisition system.

Fire fighting system, with tanks.

2.3.2.Category B.
-

Machine house and pit drainage equipment.

Water intake emergency floodgates.

Turbine discharge floodgates.

Barrier service floodgates.

Discharge spillway auxiliary panel.

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Hydraulic grids.

Water intake screening machines.

Traveling crane of machine house or cave with rail.

Spillway and water intake portico crane.

Coal handling and manipulation plants.

Illumination equipment of substations not assisted (except for emergency).

Condenser banks in derivation, to correct the power factor, from 1 to 15 kV.

Disconnecting switches from 1 to 23 kV.

2.3.3. Category C.
-

Machine cave or house discharge equipment.

Ventilation and air conditioning equipment.

Mechanical Workshop and Laboratory Equipment.

Floodgates of derivation or return channel.

Floodgate equipment, secondary capturing gateway and grid.

Secondary capturing automatic floodgate.

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2.4. Analysis Methods.

2.4.1.General.
The static method will be preferentially employed. The usage of dynamic analysis, itself
or as an interpretation instrument and trial complement and dynamic tests, will be
restricted to the cases listed next:

a)

When established by the Special Technical Specifications.

b)

Equipment that, due to the fragility of the materials of some of its components,
present special characteristics in their failure mode, which due to complexity, size or
weight results impracticable or impossible to forward to dynamic tests on vibratory table
as a complete set (examples: sheltered substations insulated in SF 6, power
transformers, refractory material walls inside boilers).

c) Special systems sensible to displacements regarding its components (e.g.: steam

generators and its supporting structure).

d)

Equipment assembled with elements destined specially to dissipate power

(buffering) or to limit relative displacements (clearance tops) and which response may
not be assessed by static method.
The Special Technical Specifications will indicate the analysis method that shall be
adopted when important amplification effects are expected, such as those that could
occur in equipment assembled over structures or filling soils, or when forecasted
significant effects of cementation interaction with the foundation soil.

2.4.2.Simultaneous actions with the earthquakes.

The seismic strains will combine with the dynamic service strains and others arising
from the normal equipment operation (proper weight, internal pressure, vibrations,
thermal effects, electric effects, etc.). It will be considered, additionally, as simultaneous
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with the above those eventual actions which occurrence probability with the earthquake
is not despicable, such s short-circuit torque, transient axial thrust in turbines, etc.

2.5. Robust Equipment.

2.5.1.General.
For the application purposes of clause 1.6.2 C, it is hereby considered as robust
equipment those that due to their function shall be designed to resist strains much
greater than seismic and that, additionally, dont contain components manufactured with
fragile materials (examples: synchronous generators, hydraulic turbines, central steam
turbo-generators, valves, motors, pumps, motor-pump units, motor-compressors, liquid
or gas pressure accumulator tanks in command or regulation systems). The seismic
analysis of robust equipment and the design of their anchorages may be performed by
the static method.
The supporting skids and machinery thrust included in robust equipment will be verified
for the additional forces arising from the acceleration of rotating masses caused by the
earthquake. For such effect shall be considered that such parts are submitted to the
same acceleration of the fix parts.

2.5.2.Robust equipment founded on firm ground.

In case of robust equipment assembled over foundation made directly to the rock or on
firm ground, the supposition that the rotation in the foundation due to earthquake effects
will be accepted as despicable.
The horizontal and vertical components of seismic design force are provided by the
formulas (between parenthesis are registered the expressions for the respective seismic
coefficients):

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H =

1,2 a
W
g

V =

0,6 a
W
g

C =

1,2 a

(9)

C =

0,6 a

(10)

with the limitations

H 0,5 W

(C 0,5)

V 0,25 W

(C 0,25)

(11)
(12)

In these formulas, a is the maximum acceleration of the ground in the horizontal

direction, specified according to the provisions of clause 1.3., g is the gravity
acceleration and W is the total weight of the equipment, of masses rigidly adhered to it
and the content, when corresponds. When the content is liquid, it will be allowed to
consider only one part of its weight, whenever provided a justification accepted by the
Head Inspector.
The forces H and V will be distributed among the system parts in the proportion to their
respective weights, according to formulas (2) and (4) of clause 1.6.2.

2.5.3.Robust equipment founded on alluvial or soft soils.

In case of robust equipment assembled on a monolithically foundation erected over
alluvial soils or soft cover, the vertical distribution of the horizontal seismic forces shall
be made considering the rotation effect of the cementation. Except when otherwise
stated in the Special Technical Specifications, the provisions set forth below shall be
followed.
The components H and V will be assessed according to the formulas and limitations set
forth in clause 2.5.2., employing for maximum horizontal acceleration of the land the
24

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value indicated in the Special Technical Specifications. The force H will be distributed as
established in the final part of the clause 1.6.2. C, using formula (3). The force V will be
distributed in the proportion of the weights of the parts in which the system is divided for
its analysis.

2.5.4.Robust equipment assembled in buildings.

The horizontal seismic force Hx in the anchorage plan of robust equipment rigidly
assembled on the upper levels of the buildings or similar structures analyzed by static
methods, may be calculated employing the formula:

Hx =

1,2 a
hx
1+
W

g
h

(13)

with the limitation

Hx W

(14)

where:
h =

total height of the building or structure over its basal level

hx =

floor height on which the equipment is anchored, referred to the buildings basal level.
The seismic vertical force will be calculated in the form specified in clause 2.5.2., where
a is the maximum horizontal acceleration of the land in which the building is erected.
If the building or structure to which is the equipment rigidly anchored has been analyzed
by the dynamic method, instead of formula (13), the following will be used:

Hx =

1,2 a x
W
g

(15)

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with the same limitation of the formula (14). Here ax is the maximum horizontal
acceleration of the anchorage floor, obtained to determine the linear response of the
building in the direction to which the equipment shall be analyzed.
The equipment elastically assembled on upper levels of the building will be subject to
the provisions of the Special Technical Specifications.

2.6. Special Dispositions for Some Central Equipment.

2.6.1.Steam Boiler.
The seismic analysis of the system formed by a suspended boiler (steam generator)
and its supporting structure will be made preferentially by the modal scope method
described in clause 1.6.3. Dynamic methods more elaborated may be used, whenever
they count with the approval from Colbn S.A.
The static analysis may be employed in preliminary projects with the purpose of predimensioning the elements of the structures and its foundations.
The boiler will be mathematically modeled as a rigid body (six degrees of freedom),
suspended from a supporting structure by suspension bars (hangers) and laterally
restricted by elements that represent coupling devices that in the prototype serve to
enable, control, limit or hinder the relative horizontal displacements between the boiler
and the supporting structure.
The inertia properties of the boiler may be reproduced modeling it as concentrated
mass system interconnected by rigid bars without mass. The localization and magnitude
of the concentrated masses will be elected in such way to reproduce with precision the
mass distribution of the prototype. In the calculation of the masses will be undertaken
that the boiler, heat exchangers, deposits and pipelines are filled with water. It will be
considered, also, that the entire liquid moves solidarity with the boiler body.
It will not be necessary to model the hangers individually; its joint effect may be
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represented by a bar reduced system (four or more) with mechanical properties

equivalent to the set or prototype hangers, in order to reproduce with precision the
natural frequencies and the theoretical model forms of the three first system modes
formed by the boiler, considered as a none-deformable solid, suspended by a fix
support by hangers of the prototype.
There is a special interest in determining the displacements related to the boiler in
respect to the supporting structure and assess the forces that act over the
interconnection devices between both. For this reason special care shall be taken when
modeling these devices, each one of them shall be represented individually in the
mathematic model.
The vibrating forms of the supporting structure-boiler system are specially influenced by
the horizontal displacement of the boiler and its rotation around the ordinate.
Consequently, the supporting structures will be represented by a tri-dimensional
mathematic model. Without restrictions, the analysis will be made for the seismic
excitation acting according to each one of the horizontal directions that are assessed as
critical, considering separate and independently (the corresponding effects will not be
superposed).

2.6.2.Pipelines and ducts.

The current clause is not applicable to pressure pipelines from the main intake in
hydroelectric power plants or pumping plants, which seismic design will be governed by
specific provisions in chapter 3.
The seismic actions over pipeline and main water or steam ducts are considered actions
in the longitudinal and transversal directions, separated and independently, but
simultaneously with the most unfavorable combination of functional situations in respect
to the valve position (open or closed), infiltration (maximum or minimum caudal),
temperatures (cold or hot pipeline) and transitory hydraulic effects (water hammer),
when applicable.

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The weight W, besides its own weight, will include those of the content, lining and
insulations.
Verification in the displacements will be made in case of earthquakes, to corroborate the
nonexistence of shock or interference danger with other elements. For such purpose
the assumption of maximum seismic deformation (horizontal or vertical) shall be
admitted as twice of the one calculated for the static method loads.
The minimum distance between the pipeline and the deformed duct, including lining and
any other element will be 100 mm, for the most unfavorable combinations of directions
and seismic strain direction and cold or hot pipeline cases.
It will be considered that hydraulic type buffers may be employed for pipelines of great
flexibility, which when conveniently displaced, may enable free thermal dilatation of
pipelines, although under a seismic, constitute fix points.
The interaction of the pipelines with structures or with fix equipment shall be considered,
inasmuch as for little flexible pipelines, connected to massive or rigid components, the
structures or the different structural elements, may be broken or damaged as
consequence of differential displacements due to rotation movements of the
foundations during earthquakes or by differential settlement and displacement
associated with foundation soil compaction due to vibration effect caused by
earthquakes. Rigid pipeline systems shall be avoided which could put up resistance to
the lateral displacement of a structure to which are anchored or connected.

2.6.3.Tanks and deposits.

A.

Little capacity tanks and deposits.

The seismic design of pressure deposits and little capacity tanks, such as those that are
part of functional systems related to the generation equipment of hydraulic plants
(speed regulation, valve command, fire fighting systems, etc.), will be governed by the
prescriptions of the current clause and by the other items of chapter 2 as applicable.
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In the calculation of hydrodynamic pressures caused by the earthquake the cover of the
deposit will be considered as being rigid and part of the content, duly justified by
calculation, a solidarity moving with it. If a justification acceptable to the Head Inspector
is not provided, it shall be construed as the liquid mass adhered to the walls of the
deposit corresponding to the total content. This same hypothesis shall be made when
there is no free surface for liquid inside the deposit.
If there is liquid spillage possibility due to seismic movement, is shall be corroborated
that the outflow above the free rest level is enough to avoid such occurrence. In
covered tanks, the support structures that sustain it shall be verified and if connections
to the walls are watertight and capable of resisting the hydrodynamic pressure that is
produced when the overflow is insufficient.
B.

Cylindrical tanks of great capacity founded directly on the ground.

The analysis and seismic design of cylindrical tanks of welded steel, directly supported
on land and destined to store liquids at atmospheric pressure or slightly above the
atmosphere will be made according to the provisions of clause 3.17.

2.6.4.Floodgates.
In the seismic design of floodgates and its supports and anchorage, in addition to the
forces due to proper weight and hydrostatic pressure, the following seismic forces are
considered:
-

One horizontal force H, provided by the equation

H =

1,2 a
W
g

(H 0,5 W)

(16)

One vertical force V, provided by

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V =

0,6 a
W
g

(V 0,25 W)

(17)

Hydrodynamic pressures provided by the equation

P =

1,25 ha
z
sen

2h
g

(18)

The symbols employed have the following meaning:

a

maximum horizontal acceleration of land determined according to the

specified in clause 1.3.

g

gravity acceleration.

total liquid depth, water above the floodgate.

depth of the point in which is calculated the hydrodynamic pressure,

measured since the loading plan.

W

total weight of floodgate and of elements rigidly connected to it.

liquid weight by volume unit.

2.6.5.Traveling crane.
The seismic analysis of the traveling crane will be made employing the static method.
The seismic coefficient of horizontal and vertical design will be:

Ch =

C =

1,2 a
g
0,6 a
g

C h 0,4
C v 0,2

(19)

(20)

where a is the maximum horizontal acceleration specified in clause 1.3. The weight W to
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which is applied such coefficients include the crane weight plus the car and other
equipment, but doesnt include the loads freely suspended.
The seismic forces over the traveling crane are not combined with other horizontal
forces eventually occurring, such as brakes and the dynamic forces associated to the
normal equipment operation.
Adjustable bumpers shall be made available with the purpose of stopping from falling in
case of derailment or earthquake. These bumpers will be supported on the crane track.
Bumpers will also be arranged to limit the crane movement in the vertical direction and
avoid it from leaping from the rails.

2.7. Electric Substation Equipment.

The specifications contained in the clauses of the current section will govern the seismic
design and the verification procedures and qualification of electric equipment that are
typical in generation, transmission and distribution substations, such as switches, pliers,
disconnecting switches, step-up transformers, lightning rods, panels, battery supports,
etc.

2.7.1.Seismic actions of design.

Except when, due to the seismic conditions of the work site, the Special Technical
Specifications otherwise specifies, the electric substation equipment and its supporting
structures shall resist simultaneously the seismic actions indicated below:

a)

The horizontal direction: ground movement which acceleration, speed and

maximum displacement is such that, according to clause 1.3 and according to the
seismic category, correspond to applying to standardized equipment susceptible to
being installed in places with several seismic conditions, not necessarily known
beforehand.

b)

In the vertical direction: a uniform and constant acceleration field with intensity
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equivalent to 60% of the maximum horizontal acceleration of the ground.

The seismic verification will be made for each one of the critical horizontal directions,
considered separate and independent, electing in each case the most unfavorable
combination of directions and senses of horizontal and vertical actions.
For the cases contemplated in clauses 2.7.5 and 2.7.6 the horizontal movement of the
ground may be replaced by a uniform and constant acceleration field.

2.7.2.Subdue response spectrum.

The response spectrum that shall be employed in the seismic verification and
qualification of the electric substation equipment, will be those set forth by the Special
Technical Specifications. If these dont dictate anything in such aspect, the scope will be
determined as of Fig. 1, adopting absorption values counting with the approval of the
Head Inspector.
The curves of the mentioned figure have been drawn for equipment fitted in category A.
For the equipment from category B, the ordinate of the curves of the figure will be
multiplied by 0.8. The spectral ordinates corresponding to the intermediary values of the
absorption in the graphics of Figure 1 may be obtained by the linear interpolation
between the curves drawn.

2.7.3.Verification and qualification procedure.

The verification of the compliance of Technical Specifications and seismic qualification
of the electric substation equipment will be made upon a mix procedure consisting of
trials, experimental determinations and laboratory tests, combined with analytical
procedures as provided in clauses 2.7.4 to 2.7.14.
Exceptions:
Relays will be released from every other test or verification for which the protocols

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demonstrating their satisfactory operation in seismic tests according to standard

ANSI/IEEE C 37.98 1978 are presented to the satisfaction of Colbn S.A, with an
acceleration level of 5 g in the range from 4 to 15 Hz. The same exception will be
extended to every type of instrument and control device for which is demonstrated its
satisfactory operation with an acceleration level of 5 g in the range from 4 to 15 Hz.
On the other hand, are also released from all test or verification, the elements for which
the Contractor presents, at the satisfaction of Colbn S.A., the protocols that
demonstrate the compliance of the tests and safety coefficients set forth in the current
General Technical Specification, with a acceleration level of 5 g in the gravity center of
the element or equipment.
Equipment that have been qualified according to the current General Technical
Specification will not be submitted to re-qualification, whenever consists exactly of the
same model.

2.7.4.Material characteristics.
The documents that endorse the guaranteed characteristics of the materials (trial
protocols issued by the respective manufacturers) shall be delivered. These include the
following:
-

Elasticity module (Young module).

Flow point of ductile materials.

Rupture pressure of seals.

Absorption level that corroborate the damping, if such is foreseen in the design. The
protocols shall demonstrate that the absorption is not less than the minimum value
guaranteed in the range of temperatures between -10 oC and +55oC.
In order to determine the admissible strain for the traction due to flexion in the insulators,
values of characteristic resistance that dont exceed 110 daN/cm 2 may be employed,
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without needing greater justification of the Contractor. Without limitation, before the
execution of seismic tests, all insulators supplied by Colbn S.A. will be subject to routine
tests consisting in submitting each insulator, assembled in the flanges foreseen in the
equipment design, to a flexion moment equivalent to 70% of the guaranteed flexion
moment, in each one of the orthogonal directions considered separately and in both
directions.
If the Contractor uses values of characteristic resistance greater than 110 daNcm 2, the
shall be justified with rupture tests to flexion on a sample formed by not less than 5
insulators extracted randomly from the fabrication lot supplied by Colbn S.A., in order to
determine the value of the characteristic resistance Rc defined as:

Rc = R - 2 sr

(21)

where R and sr are, respectively, the mean values and the Standard deviation of the
rupture stress, obtained as of the results of the trials by the formulas:
n

R =

Ri
Sr =

Ri - R

(22)

n -1

where Ri (i= 1, 2, ....., n) are the rupture stress values observed in trials and n 5 is the
number of insulators tested.
The determination of the insulators characteristic resistance will consider the final
disposition of parts assembled with the purpose of considering all stress concentrations
that such assemblage could produce.
In all cases the quality Standard and trial standards employed shall be notified.
For insulators, the characteristic resistance shall be indicated in the conclusion of the
flexion moment in the critical section of insulator rupture.

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2.7.5.Rigid equipment. Static analysis.

Rigid equipment will be those that comply with the following conditions:
a)

Forms an independent unit assembled over a sole foundation implemented directly on

the ground, without interposition of a supporting structure.

b)

Mechanically disengaged from other equipment or neighboring structures.

c)

Its lowest natural frequency, determined experimentally, is greater than 30 Hz.

The frequencies proper of metallic components, such as battery support and cells may
be determined by calculation.
In all cases, even if the natural frequencies are determined by calculation or by trials, it
shall be considered that the mass of electric equipment assembled over metallic
components.
Rigid equipment may be verified and qualified seismically by static method, employing
for such seismic design forces provided by:

H =

1,2 a
W
g

(H 0,5 W)

(23)

V =

0,6 a
W
g

(V 0,25 W)

(24)

Both H and V will be distributed in proportion to the weights of the parts.

If the condition c) is complied, but any or both conditions a) and b) are not complied, the
static method may be applied, making the verification that the equipment may support
additional strains associated to the maximum relative displacement of its miscellaneous
parts, one in respect to the others, or in respect to the equipment or structures to which

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they are mechanically coupled. In order to make the verification, the most unfavorable
hypothesis shall be considered in respect to the direction in which the seismic forces act
over each one of the parts, equipment or structures mechanically coupled.

2.7.6.Static method without verification of fundamental frequencies.

The seismic verification and qualification of the electric equipment upon the static
method variant specified next will be applied only for exception and only if, at the
decision of the Head Inspector, the electric malfunction or the unwished action of the
equipment are susceptible to being detected by analysis (e.g., stationary battery
supports).
If the experimental corroboration that the natural lowest frequency of the equipment
overcomes 30 Hz is not performed, or if the equipment doesnt comply with such
condition, the verification and qualification of the equipment may be performed by static
analysis, adopting for the horizontal and vertical components of the seismic action
design values provided by the expressions:

H =

1,2 AW
g

V =

0,6 AW
g

(25)

where A is the maximum ordinate of the subdue response spectrum that should be
applied according to clause 2.7.2.
The absorption value employed in the determination of A shall count with the approval
of the Head Inspector.
When applying this variant of the static method, force H shall be distributed among the
parts according to equation (3) of clause 1.6.2. C. The force V will be distributed in the
proportion of the weights of the parts.

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2.7.7. Seismic qualification methods for equipment to which the static analysis is not
applicable.
When the conditions to apply clauses 2.7.5 and 2.7.6 are not achievable, the seismic
verification and qualification of the electric substations will have the following steps:
A.

Analytical verification.
Among the terms set forth by the Contract for the delivery of plans and technical
information for the approval of the Head Inspector, the Contractor will submit for
approval of Colbn S.A. the calculation report with a dynamic analysis of the design.
The calculation report will comply with the requisites of clause 1.7 of this Specification.
This calculation has as purpose to opportunely verify, before tests, that the critical points
of the design have been settled by the manufacturer. This calculation may be performed
upon modal analysis or other which the Contractor considers more precise.
In the event when the modal analysis is chosen, the Contractor will follow the provisions
set forth in clause 2.7.12., of this Specification.

B.

Seismic qualification.
The seismic qualification will be made by a combination of trials and calculations and
will have the following stages:

1.

Execution

of

routine

tests specified

in the

corresponding

Special Technical

Specifications of the equipment to be tested. These tests will include the verification of
the characteristic resistance value of insulators, as correspondent according to clause
2.7.4 of this Specification.
2.

Tests in vibrating table (clause 2.7.8.).

3.

Repetition of the routine tests indicated in 1, except for the verification tests of the
insulators characteristic resistance.

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4.

Analysis to demonstrate equipment suitability under the simultaneous action of

earthquakes and other loads (clauses 2.7.13., 2.7.14. and 2.9.). In special, the
insulating columns, filling, bolts and intermediary parts employed in the fixation of
insulators, equipment fixation bolts to the assemblage structure and dampers if
contemplated in the design will be analyzed.
All tests indicated previously, will be performed before the Head Inspector. During the
tests in vibratory table the equipment service conditions will be reproduced, specially the
operation of the equipment that shall be operating during an earthquake, such as, for
example, breakers and relays. Only the control elements (for example, relays and
shutting coils and opening of breakers) will be energized. In the compliance with this
requisite, it shall be justified by the Contractor, their submittal to the approval of the
Head Inspector for the alternative measures that will be adopted to demonstrate the
correct equipment operation during an earthquake.
The laboratory where the tests on vibrating tables will be performed shall have to be
approved by the Head Inspector. For such purpose, the bidder awarded the contract will
submit the background of such Laboratory, with necessary data to verify the compliance
of clause 2.7.8. G. Such background will be submitted with the calculation report.

2.7.8.Seismic tests on vibratory table.

Before performing the seismic tests on vibratory table described in points C and D of the
current clause, the exploratory tests of free oscillation and static tests will be conducted
that are specified in points A and B, respectively. For the execution of this set of tests
the sequences A, B, C, D will be followed. In the rest of the points of this clause will be
indicated the measurements that shall be performed and fixed the general requisites
that shall be complied in the test and laboratory procedures being performed.
A.

Exploratory tests of free oscillation.

With the purpose of determining the frequencies and absorption of the different parts
that constitute the equipment, exploratory free oscillation tests will be performed on

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each of the elements that the Head Inspector indicates. For the execution of these
tests, the equipment, in loading conditions, will be fixed over a rigid base by means
forecasted in its design.
Each one of the elements which frequency and absorption should be determined, will
be separated from its balance position, applying in the gravity center a force that will be
gradually increased until reaches a value not lower than one third of the element and
free oscillations will be registered that are produced when the force application is
abruptly interrupted.
When the Head Inspector considers necessary, he may indicate for free oscillation
exploratory test to be performed separate and independently, in more than one force
application direction. It will be preferentially selected the directions that correspond to
the more vulnerable axis of the equipment. If the majority of vulnerable axes are not
known, two orthogonal horizontal directions may be arbitrarily selected. In all cases, the
test directions shall count with the approval of the Head Inspector.
The absorption rate will be determined according to the graphic of Figure 2, employing
that register zone in which the declination of the oscillations appears with clarity and
precision. When the equipment contains two or more elements susceptible of vibrating
with similar frequencies, it is possible that its vibrations interfere producing flapping. In
such cases, the absorption will determine the procedure as indicated in the upper left
part of Figure 2.
The frequency of the tested element will be determined based on the three first
oscillation cycles registered.
B.

Static test.
At the height of the gravity center of the trialed element and in the horizontal direction
considered of interest, a force will be applied that will grow gradually under the almoststatic conditions, until reaches a maximum value. This value will be equivalent to the
product of the element mass by the acceleration of its gravity center, determined this
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last one upon calculation as of the response spectrum set forth in the Special Technical
Specifications, considering the element as a linear system with a freedom degree with
the frequency and the absorption obtained in the explanatory tests of free oscillation
referred in the previous letter A.
If the Special Technical Specifications have not been issued or if such specifications
dont establish response spectrum applicable to the equipment being studied, those
contained in Figure 1 of the current Specification will be applied.
Once obtained its maximum value, the force applied will be gradually reduced to zero
and repeated the operation until completed three loading and unloading cycles.
This test pursues the following purposes:
a)

Calibrate the deformation detectors (strain-gauges).

b)

Determine strains and deformations in critical points under almost static conditions.

c)

Detect if permanent displacements are produced at the end of the load and unload
cycles.

d)

Determine the transversal rigidity of the trialed element.

e)

In case of equipment equipped with dampers, corroborate that undesirable impacts are
not produced in such devices, before submitting the equipment to more severe dynamic
tests.
In order to comply with the objectives a) and b) deformation detectors will be installed at
least in the points of the most requested parts according to the response of the element
object of the trial and will determine the calibration curves for loading and unloading
(force applied versus deformation, or, force applied versus elastic tension).
To comply with the objectives c) and d), the transversal displacements will be measured
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in points of interest (for example, the gravity center or the highest point of the
equipment or trialed element; equipment terminals coupling points). The displacements
measured will be put into a graphic in terms of the force applied, for both loading as well
as unloading stages. This test phase will comply, additionally, with the purpose of
detecting deviations in respect with the linear elastic behavior.
The static test will be performed for the same horizontal directions of the exploratory
tests of free oscillation.
The Head Inspector may indicate that the static test shall be made making loading and
unloading cycles with inversion of the applied force direction, specially when intended to
determine the hysteretic behavior of the sealing, structural unions or energy dissipating
devices (buffers), as well as when there is the assumption that the mechanical behavior
depends in the direction of the force applied.
In the execution of the static tests the same requisites of equipment reinforcement and
fixation set forth in the free oscillation tests will be observed.
C.

Frequency scanning.
The frequency scanning test pursues the following objectives:

a)

Determine the equipment resonant frequencies as a set (modal frequencies) within the
range that interests for the determination of seismic response (0.5 - 30 Hz).

b)

Determine the absorption of each of the modes which frequency doesnt exceed 30 Hz.
This determination will be obligatory when the equipment is provided with elements
destined specifically to dissipate energy (buffers) or when intended to employ in the
calculations absorption values greater than the admitted in clause 2.7.12.

c)

Provide information for the performance of constant frequency tests (point D).

d)

Detect none linear effects in the dynamic response of the equipment.

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e)

Provide information that, considered jointly with the one obtained in the exploratory tests
of free oscillation and in the static tests, serves as background for the elaboration of the
mathematic model of the equipment.
The equipment, settled over a vibratory table according to the provisions set forth in
sub-clause G-04, will be submitted to oscillatory movement of its base at constant
amplitude and variable frequency. The frequency will vary in the stage between 0.5 and
30 Hz, with a variation speed that doesnt exceed one octave per minute, and will be
maintained constant in each stage during sufficient time period to establish the
maximum response, to this frequency, during at least 5 complete cycles of oscillation.
The test will be repeated for different amplitudes of the table, until obtained the
maximum response register in the different equipment elements, with readings not lower
than 10 times the minimum sensibility of the measured, for excitation frequencies
between 0.5 and 30 Hz, but without overcoming any of the elements 60% of the seismic
response that corresponds to it according to the specified response scope. The
compliance of this last limitation implies in the prior justification by the maximum
excitation level acceptable in the test, in frequency range.
The results will be represented in amplitude curves of the response for each element in
terms of excitation frequency, for different constant excitation amplitudes (resonance
curves). The resonance frequency and the absorption rates will be estimated as of
these curves. The curves will serve, additionally, to detect none linear dynamic effect.

D.

Constant frequency tests.

For each resonance frequencies detected in a scanning test, seismic tests will be
performed in a vibratory table, with constant excitation frequency, following the rule
indicated next.

1.

A seismic test will be performed in a vibratory table with amplitude excitation essentially
constant and frequency equivalent to the fundamental frequency detected in the
scanning test. The oscillation amplitude of the vibratory table will be adjusted in such

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way that the "maximum sinusoidal acceleration" a1 of the gravity center of the element
results equivalent to the value provided by the formula:

a1 = K A ( T 1 )

(26)

where:
K

Factor that has as purpose to consider amplification effects that

eventually have not been considered to specify the response spectrum of the
design (effects of foundation soil, soil-structure interaction, etc.). This factor will
be indicated in the Special Technical Specifications. When not specified, it will be
considered K=1.
A(T1)

Ordinate of the design response spectrum corresponding to the

fundamental period T1 and the absorption of the fundamental mode determined

in the tests described in letter C of the current clause. If the Special Technical
Specifications dont establish a design spectrum, those of Figure 1 will be
employed.
It will be construed as maximum sinusoidal acceleration, the effective value (rms) of the
mean acceleration wave, multiplied by _2. The effective acceleration value shall be
calculated as of the instantaneous acceleration register versus time by a method that
provides an adequate precision, such as integration by high resolution computer.
2.

In the test of sub-clause 1, the duration of the excitation shall be such that the response
is maintained during an interval not lower than 20 seconds or greater than 30 seconds.

2. For each one of the upper resonant frequencies determined in the scanning test, a
sinusoidal flapping test will be made consistent in the application of a set of five flapping
formed by five oscillation cycles each, separated among them by sufficiently large
pauses for the interference between the effects of successive flapping are despicable
(see figure 3).
3. The greater acceleration of the vibrating table during each flapping will be equivalent to 60%
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of the design acceleration, in the equipment base, established in the E.T.P. If such
specifications have not been issued or if the design acceleration has not been
established, the greater acceleration of the vibratory table during the flapping tests will
be equivalent to 0.3 g.
4. The Head Inspector may require the execution of additional flapping tests for frequencies
different from those determined in the scanning tests. The purpose of such additional
tests will be that the set of responses obtained in the vibratory table covers the design
scope in the entire range of frequencies of interest (0.5 - 30 Hz). The additional tests will
be performed according to the provisions of sub-clauses 3 and 4 above.
5. If the test referred in sub-clause 2.7.8.D.1, the "maximum sinusoidal acceleration" of the
gravity center exceeds the value a1 required by the equation (26), the correction of the
maximum value of tensions will be accepted, for the effects of comparing them with the
admissible voltages, multiplying them by the ration between a1 and the referred
"maximum sinusoidal acceleration"
6. Unless the Contractor has agreed with Colbn S.A. an alternative verification method for the
operation conditions that shall have the equipment such as power breakers (see clause
2.7.7.B), these equipment shall be submitted to an operation cycle unloaded, during the
frequency test execution part of sub-clause 2.7.8.D.1.
7. In case the excitation of an element to a corresponding response is not possible by the
procedure set forth in this clause or when the element is not accessible to measure its
response, a separate test shall be performed on such element, fixed on a rigid base by
elements identical to those that will be assembled in the equipment. The excitation
employed in such test and in the details of the test procedures shall be approved by the
Head Inspector.
E.

Measures that shall be registered.

During these tests on vibratory table the instantaneous variations shall be registered in
terms of time period in the following magnitudes:

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1.

Horizontal acceleration response in the gravity center of each one of the elements
subject to verification.

2.

Elastic strain in at least two points of the most demanded part by response of each
element. If the columns are constituted by two or more insulators, the Inspector will
determine the need to install additional sensors. Special care will be taken with the
installation of deformation detectors to avoid incorrect registers; especially deformation
detectors shall be installed in insulators directly on porcelain and not over vitrified part.

3.

Relative displacement between those parts which displacement response may be

important for the test result (for example: contacts of a breaker)

4.

Displacement of the set base tested in respect to the vibratory table.

5.

Acceleration or displacement of vibrating table.

6.

Change of status (closed-open) of such elements with relays, contactors, breakers and
disconnecting switches.

F.

Trial instructions in the tests on vibratory table.

The seismic tests in vibratory table described in letters C and D of the current clause will
be made, independent and successively, according to the horizontal directions
considered as most vulnerable. When such directions are not known, the tests will be
performed according to the orthogonal axis randomly chosen. In all cases, the test
directions shall count with the prior approval from the Head Inspector.
If the structural characteristics of the set are subject to changes according to the
different service conditions, as it would be the case of a disconnecting pole in the
positions "open" or "closed", the tests shall be performed in each of the service
conditions possible and for each one of the test directions.

G.

Laboratory characteristics.

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The tests on vibratory table shall be performed in a laboratory authorized by Colbn

S.A., which counts with equipment and experience necessary for the test.
The minimum characteristics of the facilities will be as follows:
1.

The vibratory table shall have enough dimensions and mass in order to achieve an
oscillation predominantly sinusoidal, with the equipment assembled over it under test
conditions. This condition will be construed as complied when the amplitude of the sum
of harmonics in the displacement wave for a mass doesnt exceed 15% of the
fundamental amplitude.

2.

The frequency of the table shall be adjustable between 0.5 and 30 Hz, with a precision
better than 1% of the adjusted frequency value, with the purpose of achieving enough
excitation stability on the resonance points.

3.

The installation shall count with the measurement equipment necessary to achieve a
simultaneous registration of the measures indicated in letter E, of this clause.
Likewise, the Laboratory will count with the necessary computer facilities to calculate,
reliably, the effective values (rms) of the accelerations as of the instantaneous
acceleration registers.

4.

The safety of the trialed equipment will be performed according to the means foreseen
in the design for the equipment assemblage under service conditions. In the event when
the safety devices are not the same used in the assemblage of the equipment in
service, the Contractor will justify before the performance of the tests indicated,
additionally, which measurements will be performed to assess the influence of such
difference; in this case; the execution of tests will not be performed without the
authorization of the Head Inspector.

5.

The laboratory shall count with the calibration certificates, in force on the date of the
tests performance, for all instruments and sensors used in the corresponding
measurements. The certificates shall have been granted by a specialized institution,
independent from the Contractor or equipment supplier.

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2.7.9.Alternative tests on vibratory table.

When the Special Technical Specifications determine, the corresponding equipment
offer will include the execution of tests on vibratory table, alternatives to the constant
frequency tests, described in clause 2.7.8.D. For such purpose, the offer shall include at
least:
a)

Over price for the execution of alternative tests (for example, multi-frequency excitation,
seismic movement simulated with energy scope provided, etc.).

b)

Detailed description of the procedure to determine the excitation level in which the
seismic qualification shall be performed.

c)

Measurements that will be performed during the tests.

d)

Proposition of assessment procedure.

e)

Laboratory background that will perform the tests, with indication of similar tests recently
performed.
Colbn S.A. will indicate with the Contract adjudication, if accepts the alternative tests.
The definitive test program will be agreed with the awarded bidder.

2.7.10. Minimum tests of horizontal resistance.

When the Special Technical Specifications determine, the equipment or elements which
nominal voltage is lower than 123 kV, which consist on simple columns and that dont
have parts that result critical in their responses with the same column, may be submitted
to a minimum test of horizontal resistance in free oscillation, together with the tests
executed as described in clauses 2.7.7 letter B.1 and 2.7.8 letter A and B, in the
corresponding sequence. The equipment that is submitted to a minimum test specified
herein, will not be submitted to the tests on vibratory table of clause 2.7.8 letter C and
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D.
The minimum tests of horizontal resistance will be performed according as indicated
next:
a)

The equipment, in energized conditions, will be fixed over a rigid base, by means
foreseen in its design. Instruments will be installed to register the acceleration in the
gravity center and deformation detectors (strain gauges) to register strain variations in
the most demanded points.

b)

In the gravity center of equipment or element submitted to trial and in horizontal

direction estimated as most vulnerable, will be applied a force approximately equivalent
to:

1,3 W a1
g
where
a1 is provided by the equation (26) and W is the equipment weight over basal level.
c)

The average quadratic value (rms) of the first acceleration semi-waves shall be
equivalent or greater than

a1
2
d)

The equipment submitted to test shall not present, after it, any deformation, damage or
leakage and shall be fully capable of resisting any of the receipt tests specified.
Additionally, safety factors of elastic strain shall be assessed according to clause 2.9.;
for this effect, the qualification strains that are compared with the admissible will be
those obtained multiplying the average quadratic values by 2 of the first strain semiwaves.

2.7.11. Seismic test of relays, instruments and control devices.

When the exceptions set forth in clause 2.7.3 are not complied, the relays, instruments
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and control devices will be submitted to tests on vibratory table according to the
following pattern:
The elements indicated shall be assembled on panels, cabinets or corresponding cells.
Relays, instruments and control devices, and corresponding cells shall be assembled
with the means foreseen in the design.
The equipment will be submitted to an oscillatory movement at its base with a constant
acceleration and variable frequency between 0.5 and 30 Hz.

Unless otherwise

indicated in the Special Technical Specifications, the maximum sinusoidal acceleration

of the table will be equivalent to 0.5 g. The Head Inspector will determine the
acceleration to be applied in the even that the relays, instruments and control devices
are installed in cabinets over other equipment.
Three operation status of the protection and control elements shall be controlled every 1
Hz. The status will be: operation, none operation and transition (since none operation
status to the operation status). For each one of the operation and none operation
status, the minimum excitation time of the table in each frequency shall be 15 seconds.
The tests shall be performed for the main symmetry axis of the corresponding panel,
board, cell or cabinet.
It shall be registered by oscillograph; the acceleration of the table, acceleration in the
gravity center of the panel where the protection and control devices are installed, coil
energizing, contact position and other characteristics that shall be agreed by the Head
Inspector before performing the tests.
For the relays and relay auxiliaries will be applied, additionally, the conditions of clauses
3 and 4 of Standard IEEE No. 501-1978 that contradict with the current Specifications.

2.7.12. Dynamic analysis of spectral modal.

In the spectral modal analysis the following general indications of clause 1.6.3 will be
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performed, adopting for the response modification factor the value R=1.
The mathematic model of the equipment analyzed shall include a sufficient number of
elements for all important components of the equipment to be represented and to be
capable of reproducing vibrating modes with frequencies lower than 30 Hz.
Special care shall be taken when modeling the coupling conditions between the subsystems or complex equipment parts, as well as the assignment of absorption values for
the different natural modes. Due to the importance that the absorption has for the
assessment of the response, it is convenient that the estimated values to be on the safe
side. Therefore, unless the measurement results otherwise justifies, the absorption
associated with the joints or connections may not be greater than the values provided
next as percentage of the critical absorption:
-

Welded joints

4%

Joints tighten with controlled torque bolts

7%

Fragile components

0.5%

Greater values may be used whenever justified by experimental determinations duly

documented.
The determination of the modal participation coefficient and the equivalent modal mass
oscillator will be made as indicated in clause 1.6.3. The response to the horizontal
excitation will be superposing the modal responses according to equation (8) of the
clause mentioned with a number r of modes for at least equal to the necessary so it
may include all those which natural frequency curves are lower than 30 Hz.
Jointly with the dynamic strain due to horizontal seismic excitation, will be considered
the static strain due to the increased gravity or reduced due to the effect of vertical
acceleration field referred in clause 2.7.1.b., considering in each case the most
unfavorable combination of directions and course.

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2.7.13. Simultaneous actions with earthquake.

The horizontal and vertical seismic strain will combine with those associated with the
normal conditions of equipment service and with those eventual strains which
simultaneous occurrence probability with the earthquake is not despicable. The
following enumeration covers the most frequent cases:
-

Thermal effects due to operation conditions in permanent regime.

Internal pressure in elements that contain gas or air; in case of power switches the
internal pressure will correspond to the maximum work pressure when performed the
interruption of nominal short-circuit current.

Short-circuit strain when applicable; the short-circuit level to be considered will

correspond to the installation drawing.

Sudden pull of equipment terminals: will suppose the direction that provides the most
unfavorable combination with a value of:

100 daN for equipment with nominal voltage equivalent or lower than 245 kV.

175 daN for equipment with nominal voltage greater than 245 kV.

Other service strains (for example, those originated by the operation of oil pressure
mechanisms of power breakers, compression forces originated by fixation devices of
power transformers).

2.7.14. Strain from mechanical coupling.

The coupling between components or subsystems shall be verified by means of trials or
analysis, if flexible enough to enable to observe the interaction of components or subsystems within the range of maximum amplitudes foreseen. This demand will be
complied showing that:
1)

The coupling has enough clearance to admit dislocations equal to or greater than the
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sum of relative dislocations of each one of the components in respect to the ground. If
the components are not assembled over a common foundation, such circumstance shall
be considered.
2)

The natural frequencies of the components or sub-systems that are affected in an

important form by the fact when there is or not coupling.

3)

The forces generated by the coupling as consequence of relative movements remain

within the resistance capacity of the same couplings and components or coupled subsystems. Such capacity may be verified by static test.
If when performing the verifications recently described, results that the coupling affects
significantly the combined coupling of components, a spectral modal analysis of the set
shall be performed.

2.8. Anchorages and Supports.

The safety or anchorage devices of the equipment shall be designed to hinder its pull
over and its dislocation, whether horizontal or vertically. The design strains shall be
determined for the combination of load status and directions and horizontal and vertical
seismic force course that are most unfavorable for the element submitted to exam.
The design and verification of the devices mentioned will be made without counting with
the friction that could exist between the support surfaces.
The purpose will be that the safety or anchorage devices dont hinder the free thermal
dilatation. If this condition may not be clearly accomplished, the thermal strains shall be
aggregated to those arising from other actions.
Whenever possible, the anchorage pins will be designed for traction only; additional
fixation element will be placed to avoid them to be submitted to shearing.
The anchorage devices and safety elements of equipment installed in buildings shall be
designed in such form that relative displacements of the several parts of the supporting
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structure dont occur due to equipment failure or form the own connection and
anchorage elements. Special care shall be taken in case of equipment that has to act
jointly with the structural elements due to their rigidity of the building destined to resist
horizontal forces.
The admissible strains under seismic conditions in the materials of the anchorage
devices are specified in clause 2.9.
2.9. Admissible Strain.
In general, the seismic verification of mechanical and electric equipment, as well as
seismic design of its supporting structures, fixation and anchorage elements, will be
made following the criterion of admissible strains without loss to the verifications for
admissible dislocations and other criterions applicable to special equipment.
For those load combinations which includes seismic action, the admissible strains in the
ductile materials of members and structural connections may be even 33% greater the
strains admitted by the standard agreed for none eventual load status, but without
exceeding 80% of the flow point.
For fragile materials (porcelains) the admissible tension to traction due to flexion, under
seismic conditions, will not exceed 55 daN/cm 2, unless, according to the provisions of
clause 2.7.4, the Contractor justifies with trials a characteristic value Rc greater than 110
daN/cm2. In this last case, the admissible strain will not exceed de 1/2 Rc.

3.

SEISMIC DESIGN OF CIVIL WORKS.

3.1. Scope.
This chapter contains general dispositions that contemplate the provisions set forth in
Chapter 1 in respect to the analysis and seismic design of civil works. In general,
seismic actions are specified here with more details that shall be considered in the
structural calculation of these works.
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The prescriptions of the current chapter will prevail over Chapter 1 and, therefore, will
be subservient to those provided in the Special Technical Specifications when
applicable.
The combination of actions that characterizes the different load status to which the
structure should be designed or verified, including those combinations in which seismic
actions are interposed, as well as also safety coefficients, admissible strain, load
resistance increasing or reduction coefficients, will be those prescribed in the Special
Technical Specifications applicable to the materials and work types or structures
covered in each special case. The Special Technical Specifications will indicate which
standards, specifications or design guides are applicable and establish the exceptions
or additional demands that eventually are necessary adopted.

3.2. Seismic Design Intensity.

The seismic design intensity will be specified according to the prescriptions of clause
1.3.

3.3. Seismic Categories.

The seismic categories of the different works are indicated in the Special Technical
Specifications. If these dont mention the seismic category of a work or structure in
special, the classification of Table 3.1 will be applied.

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Table 3.1.
Civil Works Classification by Seismic Categories
WORK
1.

2.

3.

C AT E G O R Y

Works common to Hydroelectric Plants, Thermoelectric and Transf. Systems

- Machine houses and command buildings of electric power plants.
- Supporting structures and electromechanical equipment foundations
Same category of the equipment
- Elevated tanks
- Bridges:
* In operation roads without alternative route.
* In operation roads with alternative routes which bridges, if any
belong to category A
* Provisional bridges
- Retaining walls
Same category of the work jeopardized by the lack of wall
- Buildings:
* Hospitals, emergency stations, schools, churches, roads, garages and
storage areas for vehicles, equipment or materials specially
necessary in case or earthquake emergency
* Housing, workshops, laboratories, sheds and garages, in general.
* Provisional constructions not destined for housing
Hydroelectric Power Plants.
- Capture Works: dams, floodgate structure, intake properly said.
- Elevated discharge works; floodgate structures, spillway and associated
works.
- Intake Works:
* Canals, tunnels, siphons, water ducts, equilibrium chimney, load chamber
* Discharge sluice
* Pipelines and armoring
* Discharge canals

A
A
B
C

A
B
C
A
A
A
B
A
A

Thermoelectric Power Plants.

- Civil works of water cooling systems: input; water ducts, siphons,
pumping station, cooling towers.
- Chimneys.

4.

A
A

Transmission Systems.
- Transmission line towers
- Substation command houses

A
A

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3.4. Design Scope.

Unless the Special Technical Specifications determine the design spectrum that shall be
applied, it will proceed as indicated next:
-

It will be adopted as the start point the linear response spectrum of accelerations A(T,z)
that the Special Technical Specifications assigns for the work site and corresponding
seismic category.
I such specifications have not been issued or if these dont mention the linear response
spectrum applicable to the work site, the start point to elaborate the design spectrum will
be the linear response spectrum of figure 1, with due consideration to the seismic
category of the work to which they apply.

A value for the damping ratio z shall be adopted according to Table 1.1 and the pertinent
clauses of these General Technical Specifications.

The ordinates a (T) of the design spectrum will be provided by the following
expressions:

(T) =

( T1 ) =

A (T, )
,
R

T > T1

A ( T1 , )
R

(T) = (1 -

(27)

T
T
)a +
* ( T1 ) ,
T1
T1

0 T T1

Where :
a
T1

Maximum horizontal acceleration of the ground surface at the work site.

=

Period corresponding to the final point of the ascendant stretch of the

linear spectrum of accelerations.

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Response modification coefficient which value is specified in Table 3.2 or

in the pertinent places of the clause regarding particular types of works.

It shall be considered that the role of the response modification coefficient is to reduce the
strains corresponding to the elastic response spectrum to provide the due consideration to the
structure rigidity, the existence of more than one element system resistant to tremors and
accumulated experience around the seismic behavior of works similar to those being analyzed.
This means that the internal forces (flexion moments, shear forces, etc.) calculated as of the
scope now affected by coefficient R, as well as the deformations and displacements calculated
based on these strains in the hypothesis of linear behavior, may be, in general much smaller
than those actually present during an earthquake. Consequently, the coefficient R shall not be
applied when assessing relative displacement between two structures or parts of a same work
with the purpose of dimensioning the clearance or overlap necessary. Analog to this, if the
structure contains elements formed by fragile materials, the value R shall be the unit, except
when justified a greater value, which shall be submitted to the approval of the Head Inspector.

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Table 3.2.
COEFFICIENT R OF RESPONSE MODIFICATION FOR STRUCTURES OTHER THAN
BUILDINGS.
STRUCTURE TYPE
1.

Structures in the form of inverted pendulum, construed as such those in

which the mass unit or more is concentrated in the upper part and
that when there is only one resistant element to horizontal forces in the
direction of the analysis.

2.

3.0

Deposits under pressure (spherical deposits) and elevated tanks at the

ordinary pressure over ductile rigid frames or counterbraced structures
with diagonals

3.

3.5

Cylindrical steel tanks to store liquids at ordinary pressure, founded directly

over the ground (anchored or not anchored).

3.5

4.

Reinforced or prestressed concrete tanks, directly founded over ground

4.5

5.

Projecting structures with distributed mass, such as intake towers, silos,

Chimneys in reinforced concrete or steel (free, anchored, supported laterally
in a supporting structure), except for those that may be included in No.7.
4.5

6.

Chutes and elevated boxes that are not classified as inverted pendulum,
over ductile rigid frames or structure counterbraced with diagonals.

5.0

7.

Silos and chimneys which walls reach the foundation in a continuous form

5.0

8.

Bridge strain:

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- In the form of wall, for seismic forces acting parallel along the wall

3.0

- In the form of wall, for seismic forces acting perpendicularly along the wall

3.5

- Formed by a single column for any direction of the seismic action.

3.5

- Formed by ductile frame of rigid knots:

9.

a) Seismic forces in the frame plan.

5.0

b) Seismic forces perpendicular to the frame plan.

3.5

Outdoors steel pipelines.

4.0

3.5. Analysis Procedures.

The delimitation of application fields of different seismic analysis procedures has been
performed in general terms according to clause 1.6. Aggregated next are a few
criterions that are convenient to consider in the election of the analysis procedure when
dealing with works for which the current Specification doesnt expressly state the
method that shall be employed.
In general the static method will be employed.
If important dynamic amplifications or turns in the structure are not expected to occur
around the horizontal axis at the foundation level (sway), the method will be applied in
its most simple form, employing uniform seismic coefficients, equal for all parts of the
structure and independent from the natural period of such.
If the effects of the sway over the foundation are considered as important in the
structure, but considerable dynamic amplifications are not expected, the static method
with seismic coefficients independent from the natural period will be applied. In order to
consider the sway, the basal section will be distributed in the vertical following a
triangular law (clause 1.6.2.C, equation.3).
Unless the Special Technical Specifications state otherwise, in the seismic analysis of
the rigid massive structure comprised in some of the cases recently described (for
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example, spillway walls, floodgate nipple, etc.) the design coefficients C and Cv will be
employed as specified in the equations (28) and (29) of clause 3.8.
When the preliminary analysis indicates the possibility of important dynamic
amplifications, due to the natural period estimated falling within the range of great
spectral ordinates, it one of the following methods shall be elected:
-

Static method with a horizontal seismic coefficient depending on the period value
estimated, distributing in the basal section according to the vertical in the form indicated
ahead.

Spectral modal analysis

In the event the first alternative is adopted the value for the fundamental period used
shall be justified to assess the seismic coefficient. The basal section will be distributed in
elevation supposing that the horizontal accelerations in the different levels are
proportional to the lateral deflections of the structure oscillating in its fundamental mode.
For such effect, the fundamental modal form may assimilate to the balance
configuration of the structure submitted to static horizontal loads, proportional to the
weights of the different parts, acting all in the same direction, according to the analysis
direction
When considering buildings destined for workshops or dwelling, as well as other
structures of similar characteristics, the selection of seismic analysis method will be
made according to the provisions of standard NCh 433. Of. 72.
In the selection of the analysis method for boilers supporting structures the provisions
of clause 2.6.1 of the current General Technical Specification shall be respected.
The machine house buildings of hydroelectric or thermoelectric power plants may be
analyzed by static method, except when otherwise specified in the Special Technical
Specifications.

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3.6. Secondary Systems Assembled on Structure.

Special care shall be taken in the assessment of the seismic actions to which are
exposed the secondary systems assembled on the main structure, most of all the
fundamental frequency of the secondary system, supposedly fix over its base, to be
slightly different from some of those natural modes of the main system that participate
significantly in the response of tremor, or when the mass of the secondary system is a
fraction not despicable from the total mass.
This warning is applicable, for example, to smaller structures built over a dam wall or
structurally connected to it (works for the operation of floodgates, intake towers), to
tanks built over buildings, to the equipment elastically assembled on upper floors of the
building, etc.

3.7. Soils Susceptible to Liquefaction.

In the foundations seismic design of any structure will be analyzed the possibility of the
soil supporting it to generate a liquefaction phenomenon or significant loss of its
supporting capacity as consequence of a significant increase in the pressure of the
pores caused by the action of dynamic strains.
Except when the Special Technical Specifications otherwise state, the analysis may be
performed in regard to the following considerations:
-

The soil liquefaction is manifested in the soils that are below the water table level.

Are susceptible to liquefaction the limpid granular soils or with none plastic thins or low
plasticity (Plasticity rate lower or equivalent to 5%).

The liquefaction potential of the soils that dont have gravels will be investigated based
on the results obtained from the Standard Projection Essays defined in the standard
ASTM - D 1586, using the criterions set forth in the "Simplified Procedure for the
assessment of the soil liquefaction" proposed by H.B. Seed and I.M. Idriss, duly
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updated, or other procedure that counts with the approval of the Head Inspector.

3.8. Little Height Concrete Dams and Barriers.

The seismic design of the concrete dams and barriers which maximum height doesnt
overcome 30 m may be performed employing the static analysis method. The
eventuality of making the dynamic analysis and the conditions in which such shall be
performed will be established in the Special Technical Specifications.
The analysis will be made by the longitudinal unit, with horizontal seismic forces
perpendicularly driven to the cap.
The horizontal seismic coefficient of design C will be obtained from the formula.

1 a
C =

4 g

1
4

si

0,30
(28)

a
a
, si < 0,30
g
g

C = 0,6

where a is the maximum horizontal acceleration on the land surface set forth by the
Special Technical Specifications for the site and seismic category of the work.
For the vertical seismic coefficient of the design Cv will be adopted

Cv =

1
C
2

(29)

The pressure increments over the water surface above and the decrement in the waters
below, due to the horizontal seismic action will be calculated by graphics and Tables that
gather the results obtained by Zangar. In the special case when the water surface
above is a plan, instead of the graphics the approximate expression below may be
employed:

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P =

y
Ch
y
*
2 - +
2
h
h

y
y
2 -
h
h

* f( )

(30)

with

f( ) = 0,735 - 1,25
- 1,75

180
180

(31)

The symbols have the following meaning:

p=

pressure increment due to horizontal seism.

y=

depth of the point where p is assessed, measured since the free rest surface.

h=

total liquid depth.

g=

liquid weight by volume unit.

q=

inclination of upper water surface in respect to the vertical, expressed in degrees.

The shear stress and bending moment at the depth and may be assessed by the
expressions:

Q(y) = 0,726 py
2
M(y) = 0,299 py

(32)

It will not be considered increase in the sub-pressure for seismic purposes. Neither will
be considered the inertia forces that act over the accumulated sediments at the dam
wall bases; it shall only suppose that the effect of the hydro-dynamic pressures existing
up to the wall base, as if the sediments didnt exist.
The structures and equipment installed over the wall top, as well as its anchorages and
safety shall be designed at least for a coefficient equal to the double of coefficient C
employed in the seismic design of the wall, without loss to the provisions of clause 3.6.

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3.9. Earth and Rockfill Dams.

3.9.1.General.
In the design of earth and rockfill dams, whichever their height, the considerations about
the seismic stability shall receive special attention in each one of the Project phases,
since the preliminary studies conducted to assess the technical feasibility of the work
and definition of its location, up to the study and detailed design of each special
component (definitive design of the transversal sections, material selection that will be
employed, determination of the minimum overflow necessary, stability of dam slopes,
crest stability, drains, ducts and buried pipelines, etc.).
The Current General Technical Specification refers exclusively to the analysis of seismic
stability of dam walls up to 60 m high, formed by materials not susceptible to experiment
loss of a significant part of its supporting capacity, as consequence of an increase in the
pores pressure caused by the action of dynamic strains and in which great deformations
are not produced for the accumulated effect of load cycles.
Notwithstanding such limitation, reference is made here to some activities that should
be developed to obtain the indispensable information in a good seismic design. The
enumeration provided next doesnt intend to be complete; it only intends to call attention
over those tasks related with seismic design of earth and rockfill dams which are
considered important.
-

Conduct geologic studies to establish the eventual existence of local failures, its nature
and seismic activity.

Seismic studies instructed to specify the seismic design actions.

Geotechnical studies to assess foundation ground stability at the work site, under
seismic conditions and, in special, to determine its liquefaction potential.

Geotechnical studies which purpose is to assess the seismic stability of the natural
slopes surrounding the reservoir and the possibility that such produces slippages or

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avalanches, including underwater slides that imply in spillage risks over the dam body.
-

Ground and laboratory investigations to define the dynamic characteristics and material
resistance (wave propagation speed, transversal elasticity module, absorption, etc.).

3.9.2.Analysis Procedures.
The seismic design of the earth and rockfill walls will be made over the limiting base of
permanent deformations and displacements caused by the design seism at values that
are defined as admissible.
For dams with heights greater than 60 m the calculation of permanent displacements
will be accepted according to the simplified method of Makidsi and Seed, or other
similar ones that count with the approval of the Head Inspector, whenever the dam wall
material is not subject to fast and important increases of pore pressure, under dynamic
load action and that dont produce great deformations due to the accumulated effect of
load cycles. When the height of the wall exceeds 60 m., or any of the conditions
recently numbered are not complied, other analysis methods shall be applied that are
not covered by the current Specification.
The Special Technical Specifications may qualify the wall designed as "critical work", yet
by the great magnitude of eventual damages or the risk for Human Township sited
downstream. The walls classified as such shall be submitted to special analysis
procedures, established in the respective Technical Specification Particular.

3.10. Retaining Walls.

3.10.1. Generalities.
With the purpose of distinguishing between the situations that could be presented in
respect to the displacement possibilities and the cinematic conditions applicable, the
retaining walls will be classified as deformable and rigid (none-deformable).
Deformable walls are earth filling structures with rigid lower surface that under lateral
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load actions may move, whether due to translation or rotation, in an amount sufficient to
generate an active pressure status in the filling it sustains.
The thrust over deformable walls, both under seismic conditions and none seismic, are
calculated supposing that the filling is presented in a limit balance status.
Conventional retaining walls belong to a class of deformable walls, founded over
grounds and that have free cap. The retaining walls with free cap, founded on rock, will
be designed as they were deformable, but will be verified as rigid, considering the
strains in this last condition as of eventual nature.
Rigid (none-deformable) walls are earth filling structures that cant move or rotate, even
when laterally loaded (e.g.: underground walls propped by floor slabs, buried box walls).
The thrust over rigid walls, in both seismic and none seismic conditions are calculated
under the hypothesis that the soil retained by it is in elastic balance, i.e., are far from the
limit balance status.
The basic hypothesis of Mononobe method will be accepted, according to which the
pressure that the filling exercises over the retaining wall, under seismic conditions, may
be calculated according to the usual theories of earth thrust applicable, under static
conditions, to the wall type and for the border conditions that rule in the case submitted
to exam, with the purpose of aggregating to the gravity field a field of fictitious, uniform
and constant forces of components khg, in the horizontal direction perpendicular to the
wall cap and kvg, in the vertical direction, where kh and kv are two seismic coefficients,
horizontal and vertical, respectively, and g is the intensity of the gravity field. The
problem is therefore submitted to the usual methods, changing the intensity of the
gravity field for.

g = g

k h2 +

1 - kv

(33)

and rotating the internal wall outer face and the free filling surface in an angle q
provided by
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kh

1 - kv

= arc tg

(34)

According to which the applicable theory is the Coulomb or Rankine, the calculation
method of thrust under seismic conditions will be denominated Mononobe - Coulomb or
Mononobe - Rankine.
The assessment of the thrust in general (internal outer face wall not flat, irregular
surface filling, overload of the filling surface, water table, etc.), will be performed by well
known graphic methods. In the simpler cases of homogeneous filling, without water
table, straight internal outer face and flat free surface without overloads, the formulas
provided in the continuation and in sub-clause 3.10.2 and 3.10.3 may be applied. Its
convenient to warn that such formulas are only valid if, in addition to the conditions
recently listed, the following is complied:
-

There is no filling liquefaction danger.

The soil with immediate contact with the internal outer face is formed by filling placed
after the construction of such wall.

The balance may be studied by longitude wall unit (walls sufficiently large).

The cohesion of the filling is despicable.

3.10.2. Deformable walls. Formulas for thrust.

The total thrust by longitude unit of the wall, under seismic conditions, will be calculated
with the following formula:

Es =

1
H2
2

Lateral force by longitude unit (static plus dynamic).

1 - kv

(35)

Ks

where:
Es

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Global unitary filling weight.

Filling height in a plan in which the lateral forces will be assessed.

Ks

Thrust coefficients under seismic conditions.

Kv

Vertical seismic coefficient.

For the calculation of Ks will be selected between:

-

Gravitational or semi-gravitational walls, to which the Mononobe Coulomb method will

be applied, and

Counterfort walls in cantilever, for which the Mononobe Ranking method will be
applied.

A.

Mononobe Coulomb Method.

The thrust coefficient active under seismic conditions KaS is provided by (see Fig. 4a for
the angles and symbols implied):

K aS

cos2 ( - - )
=
cos cos2 ( + ) * cos( + + ) (1 +

2
n)

(36)
where:

n =

sen ( + ) * sen ( - - i)
cos ( + + i) * cos (i - )

(37)

= internal friction angle of the filling material.

b = angle between the internal outer face and the vertical.
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d = friction angle between the concrete and filling (normal conditions may be suppose d=/ 2)
i = filling inclination.

kh

1- kv

= arctg

Kh = horizontal seismic coefficient.

Kv = vertical seismic coefficient.
The active thrust coefficient under none seismic conditions, Ka, are obtained making = 0.
B.

Mononobe Ranking Method

The active thrust coefficient under seismic conditions KaS is provided by:
(see fig. 4b).

K aS =

cos i

2
[ cos (i - ) - m ] + [sen (i + ) - sen (i - )]
cos - [ cos (i + ) + m ]

(38)
where:

m = cos2 (i + ) - cos2

(39)

and the other symbols have the meaning defined above.

The active thrust coefficient, under seismic conditions Ka, is obtained making = 0. Results

Ka =

cos i * cos i cos i +

cos2 i - cos2

cos2 i - cos2

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3.10.3. Rigid walls (none deformable).

The total thrust per longitude unit of the wall under seismic conditions will be calculated
according to the equation.

ES =

1
H 2 ( 1 - k v ) K os
2

(41)

where

K os = f K o

(42)

where KO is the thrust coefficient in repose, and

f =

K as
Ka

(43)

An amplification coefficient that will be considered at the ration between the thrust
coefficients under seismic conditions and static conditions, calculated according to the
formulas from Mononobe - Coulomb or Mononobe Rankine method, according to
which corresponds the best wall conditions.

3.10.4. Thrust action line.

The total thrust Es is divided in two components:
-

the static thrust (Ea in the active case)

the increment E due to earthquake (in active case, E = Es - Ea ).

Both components will be considered parallel to the thrust under static conditions. The
pressure distribution corresponding to the increment E will be undertaken as triangular,
decreasing since its greater value on the filling surface until annulling at the wall base;
consequently, the application point of E is found at the height 2H/3 above the base.
The static component will be supposed hydrostatically distributed; meaning, the
pressures due to the static component grow linearly with the depth under the free filling

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surface.
3.10.5. Seismic Coefficient Kh y Kv .
Except when the election of other values satisfactorily justifies at the decision of the
Head Inspector, the seismic coefficients Kh and Kv will be.

kh =

1 a

2 g

kv =

1
Kh
2

(44)

(45)

where the maximum ground acceleration of the work site indicated in the Special
Technical Specifications for the corresponding seismic category.
In case of deformable walls, instead of applying equation 44, the value Kh may be
achieved from the ratio:

a 0,087 v 2
kh =
g
a

1
4

(46)

where a and v are, respectively, the acceleration and maximum speed of the ground
according to the Special Technical Specifications and the seismic category of the work
corresponds to apply, and is the permanent horizontal displacement of the wall cap,
due to the earthquake considered admissible. The value of shall count with the
approval from the Head Inspector. The horizontal and vertical components of the inertia
forces corresponding to the wall mass will be calculated employing the same
coefficients Kh and Kv used in the ground thrust calculation. The vertical component will
be supposed as distributed uniformly in the entire wall volume. The same is valid for the
horizontal component, in case of rigid walls. In the other hand when considering
deformable walls the distribution of equation 3 (clause 1.6.2 C) will be used.

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3.11. Underground Works.

The seismic analysis and design of the buried pipelines and ducts, tunnel living, drills,
caves, balance chimneys and galleries will be made undertaking that during the
earthquake, the surrounding mean (soil or rock) imposes to the structure its own
vibrating displacements of free field, namely, those that would develop in the ambience
if the work didnt exist.
The curvatures, longitudinal deformations and angular distortions to which verification or
design is made shall be the most unfavorable as reasonably expected at the depth in
which the work occurs, for the different types of seismic waves that could affect the site.
To define the movement of the ambience that will serve as calculation basis, the Special
Technical Specifications will indicate the following parameters:
-

Acceleration and maximum speed of the particles on the ambience surface.

Propagation speed of the several types of elastic waves in the ambience that surrounds
the work, or enough background to enable to determine them (elasticity modules,
density, rock quality rates, etc.)
In the calculation will be considered the attenuation of the acceleration amplitudes and
ambience particles speed with the depth, the incidence angle that is more unfavorable
according to the wave type covered, the coherence of the movement and the effects
related with the heterogeneity of the ambience (passage of one type of soil to another,
for example).
The following basic formulas will be employed to calculate the deformations, angular
distortions and corresponding curvatures to the body waves to the work depth:
Compression and dilatation wave:

V
,

a
2

(47)

Shear waves:

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V
V
a
, =
, = 2

(48)

The meaning of the symbols employed is as follows:

a

acceleration amplitude of the ambience particles

speed amplitude of the ambience particles.

propagation speed of compression and dilatation waves.

propagation speed of shear waves.

deformation (elongation or shortening per longitude unit) maximum.

maximum angular distortion.

maximum curvature.

All of them at the depth of the work in project.

3.12. Outdoors Pipelines.

In the seismic analysis of outdoors metallic pipelines on isolated supports of any type
(support seats, pedestals, and anchorage blocks) will be made, in general, by the
elastic method, using for C and Cv the values.

C =

1
a
*
2
g

Cv =

1
* C
2

(49)

that are applied to all weights implied

, including the total of the content.
When the rate D/t between the diameter and the thickness is smaller than 150, the
pipeline will be analyzed as a continuous beam over fix supports, considering the
expansion joints and the flexible joints with structural ball-socket joint. For D/t 150, the
pipeline will be analyzed as cylindrical shell, especially in the vicinity of the supports.
Exceptionally and when settled in the Special Technical Specifications, the pipeline will
be analyzed by dynamic method, supposing the excitation applied to the supports in the
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form that such specifications prescribe. For the response modification coefficient will be
used R=4.

3.13. Intake Towers.

The provisions of the current clause are applicable to the intake towers formed by an
independent structure (not structurally connected to the dam wall or other greater
structure). If such condition is not complied the intake tower will be analyzed as a
secondary system, as provided in clause 3.6.
With the obvious exception to the intake towers with revolution symmetry, the seismic
analysis will be performed, separated and independently, for the horizontal directions
that are considered critical. The spectral modal method will be used, with at least three
modes for each analysis direction. The calculation will be conducted for two conditions:
empty dam and full dam.
The tower will be molded with a beam that deforms only by flexion, without P- effects.
In the calculation of the frequencies and modal functions will be supposed that there is
no absorption and that the displacement has the same direction that the horizontal
seismic excitation. The absorption will be incorporated in the model as a function of the
critical absorption applicable to each mode.
For the empty dam condition will be adopted z=0,03 for the upper modes. The
absorption of the fundamental mode will be assessed as indicated in sub-clause 3.14.2.
(equation .52).
In the full dam condition will be used values for z valid for the empty dam condition,
increased by 0.02.
The mass of the system per unit of height, m(z), will be assessed as indicated next:
a)

For the empty dam condition:

m(z) = mo (z)

(50)
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b)

For the full dam condition:

m(z) = mo (z) + mi (z) + me (z)

z

(51)

vertical coordinate
m0

tower mass properly such (structure), without

discounting the flotation effect, per height unit

mi (z)

water mass adhered inside, by unit of height

me (z)

water mass adhered outside, by unit of height

It is supposed that the mass mi (z) y me (z) moves jointly with the structure.
When the tower is a revolution body, the masses mi (z) and me (z) may be evaluated
using the results established for the tanks and cylindrical towers, using as cylinder
radium ri (z), if considering mi (z), and re (z) if requires to assess me (z). Here ri (z), re (z)
are, respectively, the inside and outside radius of the tower in the vertical coordinate
section z. If the tower section is rectangular, mi (z) it may be assessed using the
expressions for rectangular tanks; whereas me (z) will be assessed as if the tower was a
cylinder with diameter equal to the diagonal of a square with side equivalent to the
smaller or greater of the sides of the external rectangular section of the tower, according
to the direction of the seismic action whether longitudinal or transversal.
It will be aggregated, additionally, one mass M1, elastically connected to the inside walls
of the tower to represent the fundamental mode of the undulating superficial movement
of the liquid inside. For the calculation of the mass M1 and the form which it shall be
connected to the rest of the system will follow the same criterions employed in the
Housner model for rigid wall tanks.
The vertical seismic actions will be similar to a vertical acceleration field, uniform and
constant with intensity a/2, where a is the maximum horizontal acceleration on the
surface of the land established in the Special Technical Specifications.
For the assessment of the design scope corresponding to the horizontal actions will be
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employed a modification factor of response R = 4,5.

3.14. Chimneys.
3.14.1. General.
In the election of the analysis directions shall be considered the localization of the
orifices and other singularities (duct input, manholes and cleaning wells, etc.). When
referred to chimneys which shaft doesnt reach directly the foundation, shall be
considered, additionally, the privileged directions that the supporting structure may have
Analogical considerations are valid for chimneys that are not self-supporting (anchored,
laterally supported into a structure) or chimneys with more than one fume duct. In
special cases, it will result as necessary to perform the analysis according to more than
two horizontal directions; such eventuality will be signaled in the Special Technical
Specifications.
The vertical seismic actions will be similar to a vertical acceleration field, the uniform
intensity and constant equal to half of the maximum horizontal acceleration on the
ground surface, driven to upward or downward according to which of the directions
results as more adverse.
The shaft of the chimney will be molded with a beam that deforms exclusively by flexion,
without effects P - D. Namely, the additional flexion moments produced by vertical
forces as consequence of lateral displacements due to seism will be despised.
In the analysis will be included the mass of the shaft, ducts, lining, armoring, isolation,
support console and other accessories adhered to the chimney. In the event when the
steel chimneys are lined with shotcrete (gunite), the rigidity of the additional flexion shall
be considered contributed by the lining. The Special Technical Specifications will signal
if necessary to consider the interaction of the soil-structure.
Preferentially, the spectral modal analysis method described in clause 1.6.3 will be
employed, including the superposition procedure of modal responses that are specified
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there. The modal analysis will be obligatory in case of chimneys that lay over a
supporting structure.
The method will be applicable to analysis of chimneys with height not greater than 60 m
which shaft reaches directly the foundation. Only estimative preliminary calculations will
be applied to greater height chimneys.

3.14.2. Spectral Modal Analysis.

In general, only the three vibration modes shall be calculated for each one of the
analysis directions. Although, this number of modes may be insufficient for reinforced
concrete chimney cases of great heights, provided with metallic armoring, which will
depend of the safety mode of the armoring. In all cases, the Special Technical
Specifications will indicate the number of modes to be employed. It will be accepted as
simplifying hypothesis that the structure contains classic vibrating modes. In the
determination of the frequencies and modal functions it will be supposed that there is no
absorption and that, for each analysis direction, displacements are not produced
laterally perpendicular to the excitation.
The absorption will be incorporated as a function of the critical absorption applicable to
each mode. For the superior modes will be used z = 0.03, in reinforced concrete
chimneys, and z = 0.02, in steel chimneys. For the fundamental mode greater modes
may be used than those recently indicated, with the purpose of considering the
absorption of the soil and the loss by radiation due the foundation sway. With this
purpose the following formula may be used.

s T s2 + T 2
=
2
T s2 + T

(52)

where:
z =

absorption of the foundation structure system in fundamental mode.

zs =

absorption of the structure over fix base ( = 0,03, for reinforced concrete chimneys; =
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0,02, for steel chimneys).

zF =

absorption by foundation head (see Table 1.1 for typical values).

TF =

sway period of the structure as it was a rigid body over the elastic foundation.

Ts =

period of the first mode for the structure with its fix base.

The modification coefficient of linear response will be applied according to the provisions of
clause 3.4. In general, the value R = 4.5 will be used except for reinforced concrete chimneys
on site which reaches in a continuous form the foundation; in this last case the value R = 5 may
be adopted.

3.14.3. Static Analysis Method.

The basal shear force will be calculated according to the formula:

H =

A (T, ) W
gR

(53)

where:
A(T,z ) =

ordinate of linear response spectrum of accelerations.

fundamental period of the chimney.

absorption expressed as a fraction of the critical: 0.03 for reinforced

concrete chimneys; 0.02 for steel chimneys.

W

total weight above the basal plan.

acceleration of gravity.

response modification coefficient.

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For R the same values specified in clause 3.14.2 will be used.

The fundamental period of reinforced concrete chimneys which shaft reaches the cementation
in a direct form may be estimated by the semi-empiric formula (Specification for the Design and
Construction of Reinforced Concrete Chimneys, ACI Committee 307).

T =

1,57 h2
3 Do - Dh

(54)

Where T is expressed in seconds and the other symbols have the following meaning:
h =

Height, m.

D0 =

Exterior diameter on the base, m.

Dh =

Exterior diameter at the edge, m

E =

Young module of concrete, Kg f/cm2.

Once obtained the basal shear force, its distribution according to the height and calculation of
flexion and bending moments will be performed as provided in the Chilean standard NCH 433
of. 72 in its clause 6.2.1 for flexible structures.

3.15. Silos, Chutes and Bins.

3.15.1. Election of Analysis Procedure.
When the silo walls are extended up to the foundation and the material stored lays directly on
the ground, the seismic analysis will be made preferentially following the static method. When
the structure contains elevated deposits which bottom is above the ground level, it will perform,
in general, a dynamic analysis, as well as in case of high silos over which important
installations occur that could suffer due to the effect of movement amplification. When a
dynamic analysis performance is necessary, such shall be indicated in the Special Technical
Specifications.

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The horizontal direction of analysis will be chosen meeting the requirements of orifices and
other singularities (lateral discharge orifice; position of columns, when applicable; distribution of
the silos in the plant, when considering a battery of silos, etc.). In some cases it may result as
necessary to perform the analysis in more then two horizontal directions; such eventuality will
be indicated in the Special Technical Specifications.

3.15.2 Static Method.

When the static method is employed, the basal shear H will be calculated by the formula.

H = C W + W ef

(55)

where:
W = structure weight and of elements jointly adhered to it.
Wef = efficient weight of ensilaged material, defined as indicated next:
-

Total weight of ensilaged material when considering suspended bottom deposits.

-

In 80% of the ensilaged material, when such material lies directly on the

ground.
C =

horizontal seismic coefficient set forth in the Special Technical Specifications.

In case of silos that have deposits which bottom doesnt rest directly on the ground, the
value of C may not be lower than 0.2.

3.15.3 Dynamic Method.

The calculation of seismic strains by the dynamic method will be made supposing
absorption of 5% of critical. The modification coefficient of response will be established
in Table 3.2.

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3.15.4 Installations and Equipment.

When the seismic analysis is made by the static method, the auxiliary structures and the
equipment installed over the upper level of the silo, as well as also its anchorage
devices, will be designed for a horizontal seismic coefficient equal to 2.5 C, where C is
the seismic coefficient employed to calculate the basal shear of the silo.
If the dynamic method is employed, the design forces of the structures and equipment
recently referred will be those that result from the linear dynamic analysis, applying the
modification coefficients of the response that corresponds to the structure type or the
equipment referred.
3.15.5 Reinforced Concrete Structures.
The design of silo, chutes and bins in reinforced concrete will be according to the
standard ANSI/ACI 313-77 "Recommended Practice for Design and Construction of
Concrete Bins, Silos and Bunkers for Storing Granular Materials" and the corresponding
comments (ACI 313 R-77), except in respect to the seismic analysis that shall comply
with the provisions set forth in the General Technical Specifications, specially in the
current clause 3.15.
The following recommendations will also be observed:
-

In item (b) of clause 4.2.1 of the Standard ANSI/ACI 313-77, when enumerating the
overloads reference is made among them those from wind and earthquakes, specifying
that they will be designed considering the greater among them. Its convenient to
aggregate that even if the wind conducts to greater strains than the earthquake, the
structural elements (e.g.: columns) shall be detailed to obtain the required rigidity under
seismic conditions.

Clause 4.6.1 of the standard ANSI/ACI 313-77 will be employed as next:

The bottom of silos and chutes will be designed to support vertical forces due to
ensilaged material and other loads, according to the provisions of section 4.4. It will be
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construed that under seismic conditions, the vertical force acting in the bottom by the
ensilaged material is equivalent to 80% of the material weight. To such forces will be
aggregated the thermal strains that shall be considered according to the ensilaged
material nature.
Additionally the other loads and strains that shall be considered, the columns that
sustains the bottom of the silos or chutes shall be capable of supporting the vertical
loads received by the bottom, including the total of the ensilaged material weight when
the load condition considered includes the seismic actions.
3.16. Cooling Towers.
The design of cooling towers in reinforced concrete in hyperboloid revolution form will
be made according to the recommendations of the Committee 334 of ACI-ASCE: "ACI
334. 2R-77 (Rev.1982). Reinforced Concrete Cooling Tower Shells - Practice and
Commentary".
Such as indicated therein, a modal spectral analysis may be employed supposing that
the seismic action of a sole horizontal component of arbitrary direction. The linear
response spectrum employed in the analysis will be indicated in the Special Technical
Specifications. Absorption of 5% of the critical will be supposed in all modes. The
superposition of modal responses will be made according to the provisions of the
current General Technical Specifications (clause 1.6.3. equation. 8).
In the preliminary design will be adopted a modification coefficient of the response R =
2.0. In the final design may be adopted values greater than R whenever such procedure
is justified, upon none linear analysis, in the form recommended in Section 4.5 of the
Committee Comments ACI-ASCE.

3.17. Cylindrical Tanks of Great Capacity Directly Founded on Ground.

The seismic design of cylindrical welded steel tanks, directly founded on the ground and
destined to contain water or liquid fuels at atmosphere pressure or slightly above
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atmosphere, will be made following the provisions of Appendix E of the standard "API
Standard 650-Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage", 7th Edition, November 1980
(ANSI/API 650-1980, Rev. 1, February 1984), with modifications at the clauses that are
indicated:
I

If not specified response spectrum.

E.3.1. :

Zone coefficient: the value Z = 1 will be used, unless the

E.T.P. applicable to the work otherwise indicates.

Importance coefficient: the value I=1.2 will be adopted
E.3.3.1

The coefficient C1 will become equivalent to 0.32.

E.3.3.2

The value C2 will be calculated by the equation

0,45

C 2 = 0,4
T

2
3

(56)

where T is the fundamental period of the undulation movement of the liquid container in
the deposit, expressed in seconds.
II

If specified response spectrum.

E.3.3.3 :

If specified the linear spectrum of response applicable in

the work site, the formula for M contained in clause E.3.1 of the standard
API-650 will be employed as next.

M = CW 2 X 2 + C W r H t + W 1 X 1

(57)

The symbols employed here are defined in the clause recently

mentioned, except for C and C' that is defined by the expressions.

C =

A (T , )
gR

(58)

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C =

A (T , )
gR

(59)

in which
A (T,z ) = ordinate of acceleration spectrum for the period T
of fundamental oscillation mode of liquid and the absorption z
= 0.005.
A (T',z') = ordinate of acceleration spectrum for the period
T' of the fundamental mode of the system formed by the
structure and the water adhered and an absorption z' = 0,02.
R

Modification coefficient of response. R = 3,5 will

be considered. The form of applying this reduction when T' is

smaller than the corresponding period at the final point of the
ascendant stretch of the linear spectrum response of
accelerations, will be the one specified in clause 3.4.
III

Clarification.
E.4.1. Y E.4.2.:

W L = 7,9 t b

Is declared that in the formula

F by G H

(60)

and in the expressions where appears G, this symbol represents an admission

number equal to the ratio between the stored liquid density and the water
density.
E.4.2.: Is replaced the first phrase by the following: The thickness tb of the
bottom plate under the mantle will not be greater than the thickness of the
plates of the lower course of the cylindrical cover, but in no event lower
than 6 mm. (Observed in the same text of the standard API Standard 650,
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Section 3 - Design; clause 3.4. Bottom Plates, sub-clause 3.41.)

IV.

Overflow.
E.8.1.: In order to reduce the risk of spillage and prevent damages
in the roof and the cylindrical wall surface, an overflow will be designed, r,
between the free surface of liquid and the structure of the cover not less
than.

r min (m) = 0.10 + 0,25 D (m)

(61)

Smaller overflows may be employed whenever they dont modify

adequately the geometry of the deposit or the design of the stretch and
its connections with the rest of the structure in order to be capable of
supporting the forces due to the superficial undulations of the liquid.
V.

Additional Dispositions.
In order to forestall the lack of cylindrical mantle of tanks not anchored
due to instability in compression, it will be corroborated that the following
condition is complied:
n

E t2 Wt d
t
*
*
2*
D H W 1 2H t b

0,1

> 5. I

a
g

(62)

where

n = 0,1 + 0,4

H
D

(63)

but, in all cases n 0,25

Here:
E = Young module of steel
a = maximum horizontal acceleration of design, on the ground.

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g = acceleration due to gravity.

= weight of stored liquid, by volume unit. The other symbols are defined
in the standard API 650, Appendix E.
If, in order to comply with these conditions it is chosen to increase the thickness t of the
lower plates of the cylindrical mantle, the thickness of the other mantles will also be
increased in the same proportion.

3.18. Elevated Tanks.

The elevated tanks that contain liquids with free surface will be analyzed as linear
systems with several degrees of freedom, decomposing the liquid action in an impulsive
component (adhered mass) and the convective components associated with the
splashing movement.
The mathematic model know as Housner model may be employed, in which the liquid is
represented by a set of discrete masses M0, M1, M2,..... The first, M0, corresponding to
the adhered water and moving jointly with the deposit. The others, M1, M2,...., represent
the movement modes of the splashing and are elastically connected to the deposit. For
the calculation of these masses it may be considered that these deposit walls deform
under the action of hydrodynamic pressure. It will be admitted as sufficient
approximation to employ only masses, M0 and M1, to represent the liquid.
Unless otherwise justified, the same absorption rate will be used for all system modes
formed by the liquid and the structure, according to the rule below:
- Reinforced concrete structure

z = 5%

- Steel structure with rigid know marks

z = 3%

- Counterbraced steel structures with diagonals

z = 2%

The vertical seismic actions will be similar to a uniform and constant acceleration field
av, equal to an intensity of half the maximum horizontal acceleration of the ground. If
considered as acting simultaneously with the seismic horizontal strains, in the direction
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that results most critical for the structural element submitted to analysis. In special, the
effect of the vertical seismic actions, represented here, over the pressure exercised by
the liquid against the walls and the bottom of the deposit, is equivalent to multiply the
hydrostatic pressures (in repose) by the factor: 1 av /g.

3.19. BRIDGES.
3.19.1. Scope.
The specifications of the current section are applicable to the seismic design of bridges
of convectional structuring which largest stretch has a free span not exceeding 80 m. It
will be construed as conventional structuring bridges those which superstructure is
made based on beams or caisson piles, straight, of concrete (reinforced, prestressed or
post-stressed) of steel, either continuous or simply supported, with collaboration of
platform slab or without it.
They are not applicable to bridges that have other structural configuration (suspension,
anchored, in steel, etc.).
The buried bridges (culverts) will not need analysis or seismic design, except when
corresponding to the dynamic increment due to earth pressure during an earthquake
against the walls (clauses 3.10). Such increment will not be applied if the total height of
the culvert is lower than two times the filling thickness over the rivet.
The current Specification doesnt include the analysis and design of the foundations.
3.19.2. Analysis Methods.
a)

Simplified dynamic method.

Consists in analyzing the structure as if it was a system with one freedom degree
considering only the fundamental mode for each one of the analysis directions.

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To model the structure (platform, beams, pillars, support guides or bolts) as one system
with freedom degree, the configuration of static deformation will be adopted to the form
of fundamental mode, for each analysis direction, that results from applying parallel
horizontal forces at the analysis direction and proportional to the weights of the different
parts of the work. Special care will be taken in representing the actual support
conditions of the platform; in special will be included in the deformity model the
neoprene support plates (elastometers).
The fundamental period will be determined by the Rayleigh method, i.e., as of the
equation that results from equalizing the maximum kinetic energy with the maximum
potential energy of the structure oscillating according to the approximate modal form
obtained as indicated in the previous paragraph. With this result and the value
attributed to the absorption the spectral ordinate A(T,z) will be obtained, using for such
the linear response spectrum indicated in the Special Technical Specifications. In these
cases z = 0.05 will be used, unless otherwise determined by the specifications recently
mentioned.
The simplified dynamic method may be employed in the design of structures relatively
rigid (T< 0,5 s ) and absorption relatively high (z= 0.05 or greater) that comply,
additionally, with the restriction of clause 3.19.1.
The bridges with one single stretch and the bridges formed by several independent
stretches, simply supported over stumps which height doesnt exceed 20 m are settled
within the application field of the simplified dynamic method. For such effect, the height,
of the stumps will be measured as of the corresponding undermine line to the annual
average outpouring line up to beams support.
The analysis will be made, separate and independently according to the parallel and
perpendicular directions of the longitudinal axis of the platform. It will be undertaken that
the displacements for each analysis direction are produced precisely in such direction.
Consequently, the method shall not be applied to bridges with major angles (greater
than 15).

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The method will not be applied in continuous beams bridges in which the rate between
the adjacent stretch spans is not settled between 0.8 and 1.25.
Such method will neither be applied when the stump have heights, or lateral rigidity,
very disparate.
Finally, the simplified dynamic method will not be applied when the platform is formed by
beams that have ball-socket joints between consecutive supports.
b)

Spectral modal analysis.

It may be applied to all bridges that comply with the restrictions indicated in clause
3.19.1. The analysis may be performed according to the longitudinal and transversal
directions (parallel and perpendicular to the platform axis) considered separate and
independent, whenever the slope doesnt overcome 15.
For greater slopes, the excitation will be applied successively according to each one of
the analysis directions, but the model shall consider that the response is threedimensional. The effects corresponding to the different directions will not superimpose
for which the analysis will be performed.

3.19.3. Response Modification Coefficient.

In the dimensioning of the pillars, columns, support frames, the values R indicates in
Table 3.2 (p.86) will be used.
For the dimensioning of anchorage and support devices, as well as the design of
elements destined to limit the displacements regarding the beams in respect to the
pillars and braces, or between contiguous stretches, the value R = 1 will be used, for
both horizontal and vertical displacements.

3.19.4. Clearance and Overlap.

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The clearance which purpose is to avoid impacts is necessary between adjacent

stretches or between the platform and the walls of the braces, as well as the necessary
overlap to reduce the risk of fall of stretches will comply with the specifications
contained in ATC-6 "Seismic design guidelines for highway bridges" (Oct. 1981).

3.19.5. Vertical Seismic Actions.

Will be similar to a field of uniform accelerations and of constant intensity av = 0,5 a,
where a is the maximum horizontal acceleration of the ground established in the Special
Technical Specifications.
3.19.6. Braces.
The ground thrust in the braces under seismic conditions will be calculated as specified
in clause 3.10 (in special, the specified in sub-clause 3.10.5).

3.20. BUILDINGS.
3.20.1. General.
The seismic design of workshop or dwelling buildings and other similar structures will
comply with the provisions of standard Nch 433. of 72, in everything that contradicts the
current General Technical Specifications.
While the National Institute of Standardization doesnt issue the new standard for
seismic design currently in study, the criterions to conciliate the provisions of standard
Nch 433 Of. 72 with the provisions set forth in the current Specifications will be
established case by case in the respective Special Technical Specifications.
3.20.2. Machine House.
Whenever the static method is employed the seismic coefficient for horizontal forces will
be determined by the ratio:
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C =

(T)
g

where a(T) is provided by the equation 27 of clause 3.4 and T corresponds to the
natural functional period in the analysis of the direction.
For the calculation of a(T) will be employed the value indicated in the Special Technical
Specifications. The value of z will be selected following the indications of Table 1.1. The
angle periods T1 and T2 may be selected equal to those indicated in picture 1 for the
absorption that shall be applied.
3.20.3. Boiler supporting structures.
An analysis may be performed only with the purpose of pre-dimensioning the structure.
The definitive analysis will be made according to the dynamic method, following the
provisions of clause 2.6.1.

COORDINATES OF ANGLE POINTS FOR

a = 0.5, v = 50 cm/sec
g

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EQUATION OF HYPERBOLE

FIG.1

NATURAL PERIOD

T (Sec)

LINEAR RESPONSE SPECTRUM FOR a = 0.5

AND THE INDICATED DAMPING

92

v=50 cm/s

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FIGURE 2 ABACUS TO DETERMINE THE DAMPING

93

94

CYCLES EACH

FIG. 3 FIVE PULSATIONS TRAIN WITH FIVE LOAD

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95
MONONOBE OKABE THEORY, COULOMB CONDITIONS

FIG. 4a ACTIVE PRESSURES AND EXERCISED BY A DRY SOIL

WITHOUT COHESION, UNDER SEISMIC CONDITIONS

PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION OVER THE

VERTICAL PLAN B

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96
MONONOBE OKABE THEORY, RANKINE CONDITIONS

FIG. 4b ACTIVE PRESSURES AND EXERCISED BY A DRY SOIL

WITHOUT COHESION, UNDER SEISMIC CONDITIONS

PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION OVER THE

VERTICAL PLAN A

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