Key Lessons from Observed Earthquake Performance of Seismically Isolated Structures

The current paper presents examples of effective seismic isolation system activation and successful seismic protection of select buildings, infrastructure projects, and industrial facilities. Stringent structure design criteria promoting elastic response of vulnerable or critical elements and controlling drifts and floor spectral accelerations, when applicable, as well as proper selection of isolation devices with long-term reliable materials, adequate design parameters, and safety features or margins, are discussed in detail to emphasize their role in achieving the targeted design performance and effective reduction of seismic damage. In all the case studies presented, the use of friction pendulum systems by Earthquake Protection Systems, Inc. (EPS), designed, manufactured, and tested in accordance with the Seismic Isolator Standard (SIS), have been key to achieving the continued functionality of the protected facilities or structures.