Seismic qualification by means of testing

SEISMIC QUALIFICATION BY MEANS OF TESTING Type of testing and typical application fields 

A method of direct seismic qualification of items is the testing of the actual item or prototype. If the integrity or functional capability of an item 

Test qualification of items in seismic categories 1 and 3 should be carried out when failure modes cannot be identified or defined by means of analysis or earthquake experience. Direct qualification by testing makes use of type approval and acceptance tests. Low impedance (dynamic characteristic) tests should be limited to identify similarity or to verify analytical models. Code verification tests should be used for the generic verification of analytical procedures, which typically use computer codes. The methods of testing depend on the required input, weight, size, configuration and operational characteristics of the item, plus the characteristics of the available test fadlify. 

The acceptance (proof) test is also used for electrical and mechanical components to demonstrate their seismic adequacy. It is typically performed by manufacturers to demonstrate compliance with procurement specifications and should not be used in the evaluation of seismic margins or the analysis of failure modes. Such testing is typically carried out by means of a shaking table. 

The code verification test is important for reliable analytical work. Computer codes should be verified before their application by means of analyses made using an adequate number of test results or results obtained from other appropriate computer codes or analytical procedures. A number of 

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