Seismic Protection

Conventional "anti-earthquake design" for the construction of rigid structures and buildings has recently been superseded by "seismic isolation design". This is considered the most effective design technology for protection measures against earthquakes as it is based on the concept of reducing the seismic forces transferred to a structure.

With "seismic isolation design" it is now possible to seismically isolate not only new constructions but also existing constructions through the insertion of special devices between the base of the structure and its foundations.

These special mechanical devices secure the structure by:
- preventing additional vertical load transmission due to seismic movements
- horizontal isolation of the base of the structure during a seismic event
- absorbing  seismic energy
- absorbing and dissipating  the structural response to seismic energy

Seismic Isolators  are generally characterised by having a high stiffness quotient under small displacements, so behaving like a fixed point (in order to prevent movement due to wind, etc.) while having a low stiffness quotient under large displacements (to react to and absorb wide oscillations).

The correct choice of device generally depends on:
- the type of earthquakes expected
- the type of structure
- the nature of the underlying soil
- the structure’s maximum permissible structural movement

International standards

The behaviour of the Agom E-SAFE isolator and the technical and mechanical features of the materials used to manufacture them, comply to the requirements of international standards as Italian OPCM 3274 and following amendments in addition to CNR 10018 standard, European codes on construction EN1998-1 and EN 1998-2, European code on anti seismic devices prEN15129.
Agom can also design and manufacture seismic isolators complying with different design requirements prescribed by other international rules and standard.

Corrosion Protection

Steel components exposed to the elements are protected against corrosion. Agom adjusts the level of corrosion protection in accordance with the aggressiveness of the environment in which the bearings are to be installed and each customer’s requirements.  

 The standard corrosion protection in accordance with EN 1337-9, is as follows:
- sandblasting SA2.5 grade
- two-component high-thickness epoxy zinc paint:  250 µm

The Hight resistant corrosion protection (Metallization) is as follows
- Sandblasting to SA 2.5
- Metal spraying to 85µm with Zn/Al = 85/15
- Sealing: Epoxy sealer 15-25µm
- Top coat: Epoxy paint 100µm

Comprehensive Labelling

All anti-seismic devices are provided with a metal label detailing the main properties of the device: 

- device type
- maximum vertical and horizontal loads
- rotation and displacement parameters
- order number
- date of manufacture

Installation and Anchoring to the Structure

Usually all the seismic isolators are equipped with suitable anchor bars for anchoring purpose to lower and upper structure. To improve the isolators replacement with minimal up-lift of the structure, suitable Agom interconnecting Quick Devices QD are provided. Seismic isolators with bolts can be supplied for connection with steel structures.