Earthquake fundamentals

Goals

The objectives of the training Earthquake fundamentals :

At the end of this training course, trainees will have acquired a realistic and relevant understanding of the different physical orders of magnitude, and will be able to conduct and analyse a test campaign, optimising the test definition and its implementation.
• 18 & 19.03.2026 - Vélizy
• 09 & 10.06.2026 - Vélizy
• 17 & 18.09.2026 - Vélizy

The aim of this training course is to:

• Identify the physical parameters of a structure's behaviour during an earthquake


• Identify the different types of earthquakes and their objectives


• Determine the test method and associated instrumentation based on the programme and equipment to be tested


• Understand the severity of an earthquake through calculations. Interpret the results obtained

Program

1/ Clarify the fundamentals of earthquakes
Revisit physical quantities and their reality.
Illustrate the concepts of resonance, amplification and damping.
Recall the objectives and parameters used for earthquake testing: SRC, ZPA, accelerogram
Revisit IEEE earthquake standards


2/ Identify testing methods
Interpret the capabilities and performance of various electrohydraulic testing methods, shock machines and control systems
Select measurement sensors and their location
Use appropriate signal processing


3/ Monitor and analyse a test campaign
Define test setup requirements
Choose the control strategy
Analyse the measurement results Monitor an earthquake test on our test equipment.


4/ Understand earthquake calculations
Understand the assumptions to be taken into account
Understand the calculation methodology
Analyse the results and effects of an earthquake on the equipment