Test Configuration

We will start by “duplicating” the Berkeley tests in a first phase.

The first will replicate the tests performed at Berkeley (1:3 scale), and the physical test will be limited to one column.

The trapezoidal support will be designed to provide a support analogous to the one present in the frame tested on the shake table. In all cases, the column will be rigidly supported at one end, and subjected to a 3 dof boundary conditions at the other. A 220 kip horizontal actuator will apply an imposed displacement, whereas the two vertical 110 kip actuators, under force control, will impose a vertical force and a moment. Force control being notoriously complex, we will adopt the scheme developed by the site CO-P.I

We anticipate testing around 20 columns. One of the early objectives of this test is to determine whether there is a rate effect in the seismic response of reinforced concrete columns. The outcome of this question will help determine which of the two envisioned tests of the CEA will be performed.