Media Advisory: Media Teleconference Scheduled to Discuss Colorado State Role in World’s Largest Shake Table Test on July 14

On July 14, Colorado State University researchers – in collaboration with Simpson Strong-Tie – will conduct the world’s largest "shake table test," simulating the ground motion of a 2,500-year earthquake (similar to a 7.5 magnitude earthquake) on a seven-story, 40-foot by 60-foot condominium tower with 23 one- and two-bedroom living units. The test will take place on the world’s largest shake table (known as E-Defense) near Kobe, Japan.

The event focuses on improving the safety and performance of buildings during major earthquakes and is the culmination of a $1.4 million grant from the National Science Foundation. The series of seismic tests, known as the NEESWood Capstone tests, is a collaboration between Colorado State University, Simpson Strong-Tie and researchers at E-Defense in Japan. The July 14 test will be the largest of three tests performed on the structure. The purpose of the project is to test new design and construction methods for mid-rise, wood-frame buildings in earthquake-prone areas. In the United States, 39 states are at risk for earthquakes.

The shake table is a platform measuring approximately 65 feet by 49 feet and can support building experiments weighing up to 2.5 million pounds. The seven-story building sitting on top of the table weighs nearly a million pounds.

More information about the project is available at www.strongtie.com/capstonetest.

NOTE: Following the test, Simpson Strong-Tie will make video and photos available via download and host a media teleconference with key spokespeople. Advance interviews available by request.

VIDEO/PHOTO DOWNLOAD

WHEN:      July 14, 9 a.m. MST / 11 a.m. ET

WHERE:      www.strongtie.com/capstonetest (click on "Information for the Media")

WHAT:      Test video (including video from in-building camera), b-roll of test facility, sound bites, still photography of the seven-story building

MEDIA TELECONFERENCE

WHEN:      Tuesday, July 14, 9:30 a.m. PT / 12:30 p.m. ET

CALL-IN: 1-218-936-7999   ACCESS CODE: 173216

WHO:      Dr. John van de Lindt, project lead and professor, Colorado State University

     Steve Pryor, structural engineer and project collaborator, Simpson Strong-Tie

Please RSVP to Suzette Riley at [email protected] or 206-262-0363 x 110.

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