NEHRP Clearinghouse
- Title
- NBS (National Bureau of Standards) Tri-Directional Test Facility.
- File
- PB84217462.pdf
- Author(s)
- Woodward, K.; Rankin, F.
- Source
- May 1984, 44 p.
- Identifying Number(s)
- NBSIR-84-2879
- Abstract
- A general description of a unique structural testing apparatus is presented. The apparatus is called the NBS Tri-directional Test Facility (NBS/TTF). The NBS/TTF can subject large structural elements to a wide variety of three-dimensional loadings including both translations and rotations in three orthogonal directions. The facility is computer based with all aspects of data acquisition, reduction, and display coordinated and controlled by a minicomputer. The minicomputer also controls the loading of test specimens as directed by the operator. The loads are applied by a closed-loop hydraulic system having seven independently servo-controlled hydraulic actuators. Test specimens having dimensions as large as 3 m long by 3 m deep by 3.5 m high may be installed and tested in the facility. Lateral forces of up to + or - 900 kN may be imposed on the test specimen in combination with vertical forces of up to + or - 1800 kN.
- Keywords
- Earthquake resistant structures; Test facilities; Lateral pressure; Hydraulic servomechanisms; Computer applications; Buildings; Actuators; Loads (Forces); Structural analysis