A safer earthquake design code after Northridge

Article Abstract:

The extent of the damage caused by the earthquake that hit Northridge, CA, in 1994 underscores the need for a safer earthquake design. It also demonstrated the deficiencies of the present code, including its emphasis on the use of unreliable lower-bound solutions and its tendency to focus solely on the safety of the main frames of building structures. These deficiencies should be remedied by changing the intent of the seismic provisions in the codes that cover buildings, bridges and other public works.

Standards, Civil engineering, Earthquake engineering

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The Northridge fractures: are we learning the right lessons

Article Abstract:

The welded flange-bolted web connections typical of special moment-resisting frame design, despite suffering multiple fractures, withstood structural integrity during the aftershocks of the Northridge, California earthquake in 1994. Plans to replace these connections with high-cost materials seem unwarranted, as fracturing of metals or connections in the wake of earthquakes is unavoidable.

Testing, Buildings, Steel, Structural, Structural steel, Earthquake damage

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Northridge postscript: lessons on steel connections

Article Abstract:

Analysis of the Jan, 1994, Northridge California earthquake's impacts on many welded steel moment-resisting-frame buildings reveals the need for upgradation of seismic design for these structures to withstand future earthquakes. Among other things, nonmoment seated-beam connections were assessed to have failed and moment-connection welds were found to have cracked.

Planning, Evaluation, Earthquake resistant design, Structural frames

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