Case Study: Earthquake Protection Systems achieves seismic bearing testing and qualification with Eaton hydraulic systems

Buildings, Bridges Withstand Earthquakes with the Help of Eaton Products

Earthquake Protection Systems (EPS), based in Vallejo, California, needed a way to test Friction Pendulum™ seismic isolation bearings under realistic earthquake conditions. To do that, it turned to Eaton for a hydraulic system using large bore cylinders, valves, and pumps that could simulate both the vertical load of a structure and the dynamic horizontal movement of seismic activity in real time.

Working with EPS and Berendsen Fluid Power, Eaton designed and built a robust test stand hydraulic system featuring custom Eaton cylinders, Vickers® DG and slip-in cartridge valves, and a Vickers PVM pump. The resulting fixture can simulate loads up to 15 million pounds and horizontal travel up to 14 feet, and it is now used around the clock for production testing and bearing qualification for the most demanding certification specifications.

Earthquake Protection Systems

Victor Zayas

President