In the ever-evolving landscape of construction and structural engineering, understanding how different seismic zones and vertical earthquake motions affect steel structures is crucial, especially for industries like energy that rely on robust infrastructure. A recent study led by Fatma Peker from TURGUT ÖZAL ÜNİVERSİTESİ, MÜHENDİSLİK FAKÜLTESİ, has shed new light on this complex interplay, offering insights that could reshape how we design and build in seismic-prone areas. The study, published in the Journal of Advanced Research in Natural and Applied Sciences, delves into the behavior of steel structures under vertical earthquake motions in different seismic zones.
The research focused on four distinct regions in Turkey: İzmir, Bitlis, Samsun, and Konya, each with its unique seismicity. By analyzing a ten-story steel building model in these areas, Peker and her team aimed to understand how vertical earthquake motions influence structural behavior. The model was designed according to the Principles for the Design, Calculation and Construction of Steel Structures-2016 and the Turkish Building Earthquake Code-2018, ensuring a robust framework for analysis.
One of the most striking findings was the impact of Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) on structural performance. “The displacement, rotation, base shear force, and moment values obtained in the provinces with higher PGA values were also higher,” Peker noted. This revelation underscores the critical importance of site-specific seismic assessments, particularly for industries like energy that often build in remote or high-risk areas.
The study also explored the effect of earthquake direction on structural behavior. “The vertical earthquake effect did not significantly change the results obtained for the horizontal direction in this study,” Peker explained. This suggests that while vertical motions do play a role, horizontal forces remain the primary concern for structural integrity. This could simplify future design processes, focusing more on horizontal earthquake resistance.
For the energy sector, these findings are particularly relevant. Energy infrastructure, including power plants, refineries, and pipelines, often spans vast areas with varied seismicity. Understanding how different seismic zones and vertical motions affect steel structures can help engineers design more resilient infrastructure, reducing the risk of catastrophic failures during earthquakes. This could lead to more reliable energy supply, even in high-risk areas, and potentially lower insurance costs for energy companies.
The study used records of the 2020 İzmir earthquake (Mw=6.9) for analysis, providing a real-world context to the theoretical models. This approach adds a layer of practicality to the research, making the findings more applicable to real-world scenarios.
As we look to the future, this research could shape how we approach seismic design in the construction industry. By emphasizing site-specific assessments and understanding the nuances of vertical earthquake motions, engineers can create more resilient structures. This could lead to innovations in building materials, design techniques, and even regulatory frameworks, ultimately making our infrastructure safer and more reliable.