Title:
Full-Scale Structural Testing
Author(s):
Frieder Seible, Gilbert A. Hegemier
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
8
Issue:
7
Appears on pages(s):
48-52
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
7/1/1986
Abstract:
The Charles Lee Powell Structural Systems Laboratory at the University of California, San Diego, is one of the few facilities worldwide where full scale structural systems can be subjected to critical loads in an on-line-computer-controlled multi-actuator environment. The structural four-cell box-girder test floor provides a 120 x 50 ft (37 x 15 m) test area with tie-down sleeves on a 2 ft (0.6 m) module in each direction. The main feature of the 57 ft (17 m) high laboratory is a heavily post-tensioned reaction wall for the full-scale testing of five story buildings under simulated earthquake loads. The reaction wall dimensions and load capacities make this facility unique in the United States. Full scale structural systems testing will provide the long needed experimental capabilites to verify design procedures and complex analytical models.