Response Evaluation of PC/RC Pipe-Rack Structure under Strong Seismic Events

Abstract

In seismic prone region the seismic risk quantification of the piping systems and its supporting infrastructure is mandatory to control the damage and minimize the loss of life. Some of the Petrochemical plants of Pakistan are established during 1960’s-1970’s and designed according to British standards of pre-cast concrete design practices. According to British code for precast concrete (BS-CP 116) no seismic provisions were considered at that time. These structures can be highly vulnerable to Natural Hazards Triggering Technological Accidents (Na-Tech) events and can caused huge losses to human life, property and also significant consequence on energy sector of Pakistan. Therefore, the primary objectives of the current study are to investigate the as-built condition of RC pipe-rack system, perform a seismic analysis to determine structure response to seismic forces, identify the venerable points with in the structure and propose the retrofitting strategy accordingly.