Seismic Base Isolation

Seismic base isolation is a relatively new retrofitting technique that provides a structure flexibility to withstand the lateral forces during an earthquake. Isolators are comprised of two basic types, friction-pendulum and vulcanized lead-rubber, that act like large "motor mounts" when placed under a load-bearing column of a bridge or building. During a seismic event, the isolators absorb the impact thereby greatly reducing the seismic forces transmitted through the building.