Structural & Seismic Engineering

Simulation of natural phenomena, including both land-based and marine seismic events, using shake table applications.
Testing the structural resistance of reinforced concrete buildings and structures, as well as systems for the analysis and testing of seismic isolators.

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Testing Systems for Structural and Seismic Simulation

In structural and seismic engineering, validating the behaviour of materials and structures is essential to ensuring safety and durability. Italsigma designs structural testing machines and seismic simulation systems for universities, laboratories and research centres.

We develop systems for static and dynamic testing of structures, construction materials, seismic protection devices and infrastructure components. Our platforms can integrate servo-hydraulic actuators, multi-axis systems and high-frequency data acquisition.

Our solutions enable the simulation of seismic events, cyclic loads and extreme conditions, providing essential data for research, certification and engineering design.

Why Choose Italsigma for Structural & Seismic Testing

Italsigma develops custom seismic testing systems for the validation of structures and seismic protection devices.

Our systems enable:

  • Simulation of complex dynamic loads
  • Reproduction of real seismic events
  • Advanced multi-axis testing
  • High-precision experimental data acquisition

Each platform integrates advanced control, servo-hydraulics and high-speed data acquisition into a single testing architecture.

PROJECTS

  • 3 MN (300 ton) Testing Machine

    Four-column high-stiffness load frame designed for compression testing.

    The upper crosshead is moved by servo-hydraulic lifting cylinders and hydraulically locked to the columns. The base features T-slots for secure specimen clamping. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Clear working span: 5 m
    • Maximum height: 7 m
    • Maximum specimen height: 4.5 m
    • Column spacing: 900 mm
    • Base dimensions: 4 × 1 m
    • Operating hydraulic pressure: 210–280 bar
    • Maximum compression force: 3 MN
    • Frame stiffness at 1.3 m above the base: 4.5 × 10⁹ N/m
  • Wall-Constrained Load Frame

    The system consists of a semi-underground foundation connected to a frame for applying vertical loads.

    The loading base is equipped with four roller bearings. The lower edge of the wall rests on the roller bearings, allowing the application of shear forces to produce controlled wall distortion. The maximum vertical load is 500 kN. To facilitate installation, the wall is inserted from above and then transferred into its final position using the roller-bearing system.
  • Scientific Testing Equipment for Curtain Walls

    In addition to the traditional air, water and wind tests required for the certification of curtain wall systems, the mechanical testing system allows the seismic response of curtain walls to be evaluated under both static and dynamic conditions.

    The system is equipped with seismic actuators capable of applying in-plane and out-of-plane loads to the curtain wall assembly. The system is suitable for:
    • Air and water tightness testing
    • Static and dynamic uniaxial and multiaxial loading tests
    Tests can be performed on curtain wall systems with maximum dimensions of 6 × 8 m.
  • Vibrodina – ITALSIGMA 9108 Servo-Hydraulic Exciter

    The ITALSIGMA 9108 servo-hydraulic exciter is designed to apply a controlled excitation force, with defined frequency and amplitude, to the structure to which it is attached. The system can be installed either in a vertical or horizontal position, allowing the simulation of vertical or horizontal excitation, respectively. The frequency can be continuously adjusted from 2 to 20 Hz. An automatic frequency sweep can also be performed at a selectable sweep rate. The maximum excitation force is approximately 70 kN. The system can be equipped with additional masses to select different operating ranges. Power is supplied by a hydraulic power unit driven by a diesel …
  • Biaxial Testing Machine for Shear Testing of Structural Components

    High-stiffness load frame designed to simultaneously apply compression and shear loads in orthogonal directions.

    The system can be used to test two-dimensional structural panels, such as walls, as well as structural components such as seismic isolators. Long working strokes can be applied to test components with a low elastic modulus, such as elastomeric bearings. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Vertical force: 4 MN
    • Horizontal force: 2 MN
    • Vertical stroke: 500 mm
    • Horizontal stroke: 1 m
    • Column spacing: 1,200 mm
    • Maximum specimen height: 1,300 mm
  • BX30030 – Biaxial Testing Machine

    The testing system is designed to evaluate the performance of seismic isolators.

    The tests involve applying a compressive load in the vertical direction while imposing cyclic horizontal displacements. The machine's general performance specifications in terms of vertical and horizontal load, displacement and speed have been defined to cover the vast majority of end-of-production tests and most qualification tests. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Vertical force: 30,000 kN
    • Horizontal force: 3,000 kN
  • BX5528 – Biaxial Testing Machine

    The testing system is designed to evaluate the performance of elastomeric seismic isolators.

    The tests involve applying a compressive load in the vertical direction while imposing cyclic horizontal displacements. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Vertical force: 5,500 kN
    • Horizontal force: 2,800 kN
  • BX112 – Biaxial Seismic Isolator Testing Machine

    Testing machine designed for testing seismic isolators.

    TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Vertical load: 30 MN
    • Horizontal load: 3,000 kN
    • Horizontal stroke: 1,000 mm
  • Viaduct Beam Testing System

    Testing system consisting of four servo-hydraulic actuators with a total capacity of 6,000 kN (1,500 kN per actuator), a hydraulic power unit and a control system.

    TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Vertical force: 6,000 kN
  • Seismic Simulation Testing Structure

    Large-scale experimental testing system for dynamic testing of structural and non-structural components.

    The system consists of four actuators and is capable of simulating the relative response of any pair of adjacent floors in buildings of any height. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Nominal operating pressure: 280 bar
    • Displacement capacity: ±1,000 mm
    • Force capacity: ±150 kN
    • Spherical joints: 150 kN
  • Compression Platen System

    System consisting of circular steel compression platens made of 38NiCrMo3 steel, complete with a spherical joint to compensate for minor misalignments.

    The upper platen, equipped with a spherical joint, is directly connected to the actuator piston rod. Four elastic retaining rings keep the spherical joint assembly in position. The lower platen is connected to the load cell, which is in turn secured to the frame base. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Compression platen diameter: 125 mm
  • MU26 – Ultrasonic VHCF Testing Machine

    Ultrasonic Testing Machine

    Electromechanical testing machine equipped with an ultrasonic system for generating cyclic loads and a load frame with an electromechanical actuator for applying static loads. Test control, monitoring and data management are performed via personal computer.
  • BX2112 – Servo-Hydraulic Testing System

    Testing system for the characterization of sliding materials.

    The Italsigma BX2112_1P is designed to determine the coefficient of friction between sliding elements used in structural bearings, in accordance with EN 1337-2:2002, Annex D. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    • Vertical load: 500 kN
    • Horizontal load: 100 kN
    Main components:
    • Four-column frame designed to withstand a vertical load of 500 kN with high structural rigidity.
    • Vertical actuator capable of applying a compression force of 500 kN at 210 bar, with a 100 mm stroke. The actuator is equipped with a servo valve and an LVDT transducer for piston displacement measurement.
    • Force transducer for measuring the …
  • FPF500 – SERVO-HYDRAULIC TESTING MACHINE

    Four-column testing machine equipped with lateral column reinforcements, designed to withstand test loads up to 500 kN without significant deformation.

    The base features a slotted test surface for securing testing fixtures and equipment.
    • Support surface: 2,900 × 1,500 mm
    • Hydraulic lifting of the upper crosshead

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