Shake Test!

It was an interesting day at the UBC Earthquake Lab yesterday!

Approx. 70 people came out to witness the shaking of "Frida," our little cob model. Media and city officials were in attendance.

The intent was to subject Frida to a large earthquake that was recorded inthe Mojave Desert, beginning at 1/4 intensity, then 1/2, and finally full strength, recording failure after each test.

The first test started well. However, technical difficulties with the shake table hydraulics resulted in the table repeatedly contacting the bumper pads, delivering massive shocks and subjecting the model to excessive forces. Frida however took it all in stride. The building separated from the table surface, but stayed intact. After repeated shocks, only minor cracking of the plaster was observed around window and door frames, with one crack visible on the interior. Although different than the forces experienced during an earthquake, the ground acceleration was off the scale. Thus, despite the table malfunction, much was learned from the test.

Repairs are being made to the table, after which another attempt at the actual tests will be made. Although already damaged, the model is expected to perform well. Media covering the event included CBC French TV (aired Thursday night at 6pm), a small piece in the Province, and CBC Radio's "Sounds Like Canada" (air dateTBD).




Setting-up "Frida" for testing (placing roof sensors).




Kristi and Kay with model.




Kay and Steve tighten roof plate bolts prior to testing.




Kay and Steve - Frida's proud parents.




An eager crowd awaits the tests.




Dr. Carlos Ventura and technician in control room.




Post-test: Kay checks interior for cracks.




Post-test: slight damage of doorframe and lower wall.




Post-test: Cracks (marked with marker).