Why Can Skyscrapers Survive Earthquakes?

Earthquakes are a serious threat to tall buildings, especially skyscrapers that tower hundreds of meters above. However, many tall buildings in the world remain standing strong even though they are hit by major earthquakes. What's the secret? Here are some of the main factors that make skyscrapers earthquake-resistant!

1. Flexible Structure, Not Rigid
Why is it important?

Buildings that are too rigid are more prone to collapse during an earthquake. Therefore, skyscrapers are designed to move with the vibrations of the earthquake, not against them.

The solution:

• Steel as the main frame: Steel is more flexible than concrete, so many tall buildings use steel frames or reinforced concrete mixtures.
• Strong columns and beams: Special frame systems are used so that buildings can absorb earthquake energy without causing structural collapse.

2. Deep and Strong Foundations
Why is it important?
The deeper the foundation, the stronger the building is in facing earthquakes. Vibrations from the ground can be better dampened if the foundation reaches a stable soil layer.

The solution:

• Pile or caisson foundations that are embedded in hard ground to provide stability.
• Thick concrete slabs at the base of the building to distribute the load evenly.

3. Dampers
Why is it important?
Skyscrapers are equipped with dampers that help reduce the impact of earthquakes by balancing the building’s motion.

The solution:

• Tuned Mass Damper (TMD): A large weight (usually a giant ball) placed at the top of a building to balance vibrations during an earthquake.
• Liquid Damper: A large water tank placed at the top of a building to absorb vibrations with its fluid motion.

Example:
The Taipei 101 building in Taiwan has a 660-ton Tuned Mass Damper, which can reduce vibrations by up to 40%!

4. Aerodynamic and Symmetrical Design
Why is it important?
Buildings that have an aerodynamic or symmetrical shape are better able to withstand lateral forces caused by earthquakes.

The solution:

• Symmetrical and centered designs help distribute earthquake forces evenly.
• Conical or curved buildings can reduce lateral pressure caused by vibrations.

Example:
The Burj Khalifa tower in Dubai is designed with a symmetrical spiral shape, making it more stable in the face of earthquakes and strong winds.

5. Earthquake-Resistant Construction Materials
Why is it important?
The materials used in skyscraper construction must be able to absorb earthquake energy and remain strong without cracking or collapsing.

The solution:

• Flexible reinforced concrete, which is more resistant to deformation.
• High-strength steel, which can absorb earthquake energy without breaking easily.
• Lightweight and strong composites, such as carbon fiber and stainless steel.

6. Seismic Isolation Technology (Base Isolator)
Why is it important?
Some skyscrapers use a seismic isolation system, where the building is separated from the foundation using flexible bearings that absorb earthquake vibrations.

The solution:

• Rubber and steel base isolators are placed between the foundation and the building structure.
• Allows the building to "float" above the ground vibrations, so that it does not directly receive the impact of the earthquake.

Example:
The Transamerica Pyramid building in San Francisco uses a seismic isolation system that has proven effective during a major earthquake in California.

Conclusion: What Makes a Skyscraper Earthquake Resistant?

• Flexible structures that can move with the earthquake.
• Deep and strong foundations to stabilize the building.
• Vibration damping systems such as TMD and liquid dampers.
• Aerodynamic and symmetrical designs to reduce lateral pressure.
• Earthquake-resistant materials such as reinforced concrete and high-quality steel.
• Seismic isolation technology to dampen vibrations from the ground.

Need Quality Construction Materials for a Sturdy Building?
PT Intisumber Bajasakti provides various SNI standard construction materials, including reinforced concrete, H-Beam, WF, and other structural steel that can be used for earthquake-resistant buildings!

📞 Call us now: +6221 66675999
🌐 Visit our website: www.intisumberbajasakti.com

Build a sturdy and earthquake-resistant building with quality materials from PT Intisumber Bajasakti!

Back to List