There are many challenges for manufacturers when providing seismically qualified equipment. Utilities give minimal time to manufacturers to prepare design drawings, manufacture, and deliver the equipment. We understand these challenges and have developed a process that has helped manufacturers meet the end-user’s needs.
Our structural engineering experience for power utilities gives us an edge over most other seismic qualification providers. We understand the needs of the utility, and we know what the utilities are looking for from their manufacturers. Our experienced principals and staff have years of experience preparing seismic qualification reports, shake-table test plans, and pre-testing analyses. This lets us get through the review process faster.
Our active participation in IEEE 693 committee gives us the ability to be on the leading edge of seismic qualification. We use our committee involvement to inform you of upcoming changes that may affect the qualification of your equipment.
What you get from us
- We help you save time and money by providing early feedback on possible modifications needed to the equipment to meet the requirements of IEEE 693.
- We help you determine the qualification level and method for the equipment.
- Our streamlined process provides the fastest turnaround times.
Common challenges that cost time and money
- The seismic qualification is started near to the start or after fabrication begins.
- Lack of understanding of code or recommendation requirements, i.e., Radiators require bracing directly to the tank walls.
- Understanding shake table lab availability and limitations.
We offer a pre-testing analysis of equipment to determine possible weak links in the system that may require modification prior to testing. Our experience with Finite Element Analysis and the behavior of systems have given us a unique perspective on modeling components to best fit the anticipated dynamic response of the equipment.
We provide consulting for shake table testing for a wide variety of equipment. We will work with you and the end user to ensure the testing and acceptance criteria meets the requirements of the project. Our interest is providing the help you need to best meet the goals of the project and provide you with the guidance needed to meet the testing requirements. Whether it is an IEEE 693 qualification or seismic certification to meet California’s Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) OSP seismic requirements, we can help.
Our services for shake table testing include:
• Pre-testing Analysis to identify possible weak links
• Assistance with the development of test plans and acceptance criteria
• Shake table facility procurement and selection
• Project management
• Test report
We provide structural consulting for Transmission and Distribution systems for manufacturers, utilities, and EPC contractors. Our diverse background in substation structure design, equipment qualification, and building design allows us to help with a wide variety of structural needs, including:
- Electro-mechanical analysis for complete substations
- Peer review of equipment qualification report or analysis
- Determination of position-specific seismic input for equipment located in buildings or other structures.
- Base isolation of equipment
- Seismic evaluation of substation structures, equipment, and buildings
- Foundation design
- Evaluation of the existing structures for the addition of equipment
- Flexible conductor profile dynamic analysis for interconnection of equipment or flexible bus substations
- Wind vibration analysis on substation structures
- GIS system structural analysis, including GIS building design
- Indoor substation equipment and building design/evaluation
- Preparation of emergency response plans