Thanks to the real estate developers for comin up up with the clever solution of building vertically, giving rise to a recent phenomenon of high-rise buildings.
To, what exactly classifies a building as a ‘high-rise’?
High-rise buildings can be classified as multi-story structures above 35 meters. Some believe that a high-rise building must be out of the maximum reach of firefighters.
The height of buildings has risen significantly with each new decade; technology advancements are being integrated into building tall structures. Also, some concerns such as wind, gravity, and earthquake resistance are becoming more significant as well.
For the sake of understanding, here are the factors that make a high-rise building earthquake-proof.
- Strong Foundation: This includes deep and sturdy foundations; such as piles or caissons that reach the bedrock – for long-lasting stability.
- Structural System: This includes structures – reinforced concrete, steel frames, and composite structural – to resist the lateral and vertical forces generated by an earthquake.
- Damping Systems: Damping systems include Tuned Mass Dampers (TMD)/Viscoelastic Dampers (VED) – to reduce the building’s response to seismic forces.
- Seismic Isolation: Seismic isolation is a technique that involves placing bearings or isolators between the building and its foundation. This helps to reduce the transfer of seismic energy to the building.
- Bracing Systems: Bracing systems stiffen the building structure and provide additional strength and stability. These systems include shear walls, diagonal braces, moment-resisting frames, etc.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including inspections of the foundation, structural components, and building systems – to ensure that the building remains earthquake-proof.
By incorporating these factors into the design and construction of high-rise buildings, we can help ensure that structures can withstand earthquakes and provide a safe environment for occupants
However, these high-rise buildings are not simply a race to the sky, but they offer numerous benefits to individuals and the society at large.