Assessing the Collapse Probability of Base-Isolated Buildings considering Pounding to Moat Walls using the FEMA P695 Methodology

Abstract

The collapse probability of two three story base-isolated buildings considering pounding to moat walls is examined using the methodology in FEMA P695. The superstructure models consist of a steel intermediate moment frame and a steel ordinary braced frame designed for the same seismic hazard. The behavior of these buildings under various ground motions is first examined, and it is found that the more rigid braced frame results in larger displacements demands on the isolation system, increasing the potential for impact. The collapse studies examine the effect of moat wall gap distance on the probability of collapse for these structures. These studies show that the flexibility and ductility of the moment frame model allow the superstructure to better absorb the impact forces. The braced frame superstructure tends to impact at lower shaking intensities and degrades in strength more rapidly due to the limited ductility that increases the risk of collapse.