What Does a Seismic Bracing Company Do?

Author : Md Saiful Islam | Published On : 31 Jan 2024

When an earthquake shakes a building, seismic bracing prevents equipment from falling from where it’s suspended or colliding with other structural elements. It also keeps the equipment from being damaged by vibration, which could make it unusable or worse, cause structural damage to the entire building. In addition, warehouses that prioritize seismic safety will be able to meet standards and regulations, as well as potentially benefit from Section 179 of the tax code, which offers companies significant tax deductions on investment in equipment and systems that improve overall operational efficiency and safety.

Typically, a Seismic Bracing Company will specialize in design and installation of the seismic restraints that keep HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other mechanical systems fully functional during an earthquake or seismic event. They’ll offer a range of bracing components and other products to address different types of structural problems, as well as non-structural damage.

Seismic restraints can be as simple as a cable tie that holds a piece of piping in place, but most projects involve a lot more planning. For example, a contractor may need to know whether the project is in an earthquake zone, which determines the amount of force that must be taken into account when designing a seismic system. Other considerations include the weight of the system, its expected displacement, the strength and location of the seismic support, and more.

Depending on the building and its type, a contractor might use cross bracing, shear walls, moment-resisting frames, or base isolation systems. Each one addresses a different type of structural problem. Cross bracing involves placing braces in an X shape, providing stability in two directions. Shear walls provide stability at relevant locations within a building. Moment-resisting frames withstand vertical and lateral forces without bonding to the structure’s foundation. Base isolation systems bolster the structure’s base, protecting it from seismic and wind forces.

Seismic bracing is essential for preventing fire sprinkler systems from being damaged or rendered useless during an earthquake. It’s required by NFPA 13, which lists specific earthquake-protection applications based on the building’s seismic zone and its seismic design category. To properly brace a pipeline system, contractors must perform a number of calculations. These include determining the system’s weight; calculating the seismic force, or expected displacement; dividing the brace strength by the seismic force to find out how far apart the braces can be; identifying any vertical lift or threaded rod stiffeners that need to be added; and more.

Seismic cable bracing can save a lot of time and hassle over other forms of seismic restraint, such as strut or angled iron. Unlike these rigid options, cable bracing doesn’t have a length limit because it’s used in tension only. It can also be easily installed in the tight spaces involved in many retrofits. It’s the perfect solution for any project in need of a flexible and fast way to strengthen seismically vulnerable equipment and comply with NFPA 13 requirements. Whether you’re looking for an experienced seismic bracing company to design or install your system, or simply want to learn more about the industry and its products, we’re here to help. Contact us today for more information.