Author: QuakeLogic

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QuakeLogic

Curated QuakeLogic articles, application notes, and technical explainers for engineering teams.

Earthquake EngineeringStructural Health MonitoringEarthquake Early WarningSeismic SensorsInfrasound MonitoringShake TablesData Acquisition SystemsInfrastructure Monitoring
Areas of expertiseSeismic monitoring, structural health monitoring, testing systems, data acquisition, and applied engineering education.
Data center seismic monitoring system with seismic sensors protecting critical server infrastructure.
Technical Note

Data Center Seismic Monitoring

Data center seismic monitoring helps protect critical infrastructure from earthquake-related risks. Data centers depend on stable equipment, reliable power, and continuous network access. Even moderate ground movement can affect sensitive systems, especially...

Nov 6, 20267 min read

1-Ton Uniaxial Shake Table With ±1 g and ±200 mm Stroke

QuakeLogic shake table platform used for 3-ton and 5-ton seismic testing systems

In short: The QuakeLogic 1 ton uniaxial shake table has a 150 × 150 cm top plate, delivers ±1 g acceleration at a full 1 ton payload and provides ±200 mm of stroke. An electro-mechanical servo motor replaces hydraulics, so the table runs quietly and is practically maintenance-free. The IP-based controller supports remote operation, and the EASYTEST software runs on any Windows machine without special computer cards.

QuakeLogic is proud to introduce our state-of-the-art 1-ton Uniaxial Shake Table, designed to bring unparalleled precision and power to your seismic testing needs. With a 1-ton payload capacity, this shake table is an indispensable tool for engineers and researchers focused on enhancing structural integrity and earthquake resilience.

Key specifications

A spacious top table with dimensions of 150×150 cm (L x W), capable of delivering up to ±1 g acceleration at 1-ton capacity, with a stroke of ±200 mm.

Powered by an advanced electro-mechanical servo motor, this shake table ensures smooth and quiet operation. Unlike traditional hydraulic systems, our shake table is practically maintenance-free, making it a hassle-free addition to your lab.

This IP-based system allows for remote operation and monitoring, providing flexibility and control like never before. Designed for ease of use, the shake table comes with our intuitive EASYTEST software, which requires no specialized computer cards and runs seamlessly on any Windows machine. Plus, its compact design means it’s ready to be installed quickly, so you can start testing without delay.

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For more information, visit our product page HERE or contact us at sales@quakelogic.net

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About QuakeLogic

QuakeLogic is a leading provider of advanced seismic monitoring solutions, offering a range of products and services designed to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of testing, data acquisition, and analysis.

Contact Information:

For more information about our products and services, please visit our website or contact our sales team. We are here to help you with all your testing and monitoring needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Top table 150 × 150 cm, ±1 g acceleration at 1 ton payload, ±200 mm stroke.
  • Electro-mechanical servo-motor drive: quiet, smooth and practically maintenance-free compared with hydraulic tables.
  • IP-based controller allows remote operation and monitoring over the network.
  • EASYTEST software needs no specialized computer cards and runs on any Windows PC.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the specifications of the 1 ton uniaxial shake table?

QuakeLogic's 1 ton uniaxial shake table has a 150 × 150 cm top table, reaches ±1 g acceleration at its full 1 ton payload capacity and has a stroke of ±200 mm. It is driven by an electro-mechanical servo motor, controlled over IP and operated through the EASYTEST software on a standard Windows machine, with a compact design that installs quickly.

Is a 1 ton shake table hydraulic or electric?

This 1 ton table is electric. An advanced electro-mechanical servo motor moves the platform instead of hydraulic actuators, which removes the hydraulic power unit, oil and associated upkeep. The servo drive gives smooth, quiet operation and a practically maintenance-free system that installs quickly in a laboratory without the infrastructure a hydraulic table requires.

Can the shake table be operated remotely?

Yes. The 1 ton uniaxial shake table uses an IP-based control system, so tests can be started and monitored from a PC on the network rather than only at the table. Combined with EASYTEST, which needs no specialized computer cards and runs on any Windows machine, this gives flexible control for labs where the operator and table are not in the same room.

What can a 1 ton payload shake table test?

A 1 ton payload with a 150 × 150 cm platform and ±1 g acceleration suits scaled building and bridge models, equipment and component qualification, and research into earthquake resilience and structural integrity. The ±200 mm stroke allows long-period ground motion records to be reproduced within the displacement limits of the table.

Need help with a project? QuakeLogic designs and supplies seismic monitoring, earthquake early warning, structural health monitoring, infrasound, and shake table systems. Browse QuakeLogic products or contact our engineering team with your site, structure, or test requirements.

Bringing Earthquake Science to Life in the Classroom with the ATOM Shake Table

Shake table testing equipment for "Instructions for Maintaining the ATOM Shake Table in a Lab Environment"

Understanding earthquakes and their impact on structures is a critical part of education, especially in the fields of science and engineering studies. Teaching these concepts can be challenging without the right tools. Enter QuakeLogic’s ATOM Shake Table—a game-changer for educational environments. The ATOM Shake Table offers a hands-on, interactive way to demonstrate the effects of seismic activity in the classroom, making earthquake science both accessible and engaging.

What is the ATOM Shake Table? The ATOM Shake Table by QuakeLogic is America’s #1 Most Loved ❤️ and #1 Most Wanted UNIAXIAL DESKTOP SHAKE TABLE!

Compact, portable, and powerful, it is designed to simulate earthquake conditions in a controlled environment. It’s perfect for classrooms, labs, and science fairs, allowing students to observe how different structures respond to seismic forces. With a 50-kg payload capacity, this versatile tool brings earthquake science to life in a way that textbooks alone cannot.

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Key Features of the ATOM Shake Table:

  • Portable and Durable: Despite its robust construction, the ATOM Shake Table is lightweight and comes with a hard case equipped with wheels for easy transport. Move it effortlessly between classrooms or take it on the road for off-site demonstrations.
  • 50-kg Payload Capacity: Capable of handling up to 50 kg, the ATOM Shake Table provides a powerful platform for testing various models and structures.
  • Realistic Seismic Simulation: Achieve up to 1 g peak acceleration with a ±125 mm stroke at a 50-kg payload. This capability allows you to replicate a wide range of seismic events, from mild tremors to powerful quakes, giving students a real-world understanding of how different magnitudes affect structures.
  • Smooth and Quiet Performance: Powered by advanced servo motor technology, the ATOM Shake Table delivers smooth and quiet operation, ensuring an uninterrupted learning experience.
  • User-Friendly Software: Its control software, EASYTEST, is beautifully designed, simple to use, and incredibly user-friendly. EASYTEST controls everything from data logging to real-time visualizations, making the entire process seamless. There’s no need for additional software or post-processing—everything you need is right at your fingertips.

Educational Benefits: The ATOM Shake Table provides numerous educational benefits:

  • Interactive Learning: Students can engage in hands-on experiments by building their own models and testing them under simulated earthquake conditions. This active learning approach reinforces theoretical concepts and fosters critical thinking.
  • Visual and Practical Demonstrations: Instead of relying solely on textbooks and lectures, the ATOM Shake Table allows students to witness the effects of earthquakes in real-time, making abstract concepts more tangible.
  • Collaborative Projects: The shake table is ideal for group projects, encouraging teamwork as students collaborate to design, build, and test their structures.

Why Choose QuakeLogic’s ATOM Shake Table? QuakeLogic is a leader in seismic testing technology, and the ATOM Shake Table reflects our commitment to quality and innovation. We understand the importance of providing educators with reliable tools that enhance learning, which is why the ATOM Shake Table is built to the highest standards. With QuakeLogic, you’re not just getting a product—you’re gaining a partner in education.

We also offer a modular PLEXIGLASS MODEL STRUCTURE and GEOBOX to simulate structural dynamics as well as liquefaction, landslides and lateral spreading. The photo below shows the GEOBOX.

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Conclusion: Incorporating the ATOM Shake Table into your classroom can transform the way students understand and appreciate the science of earthquakes. It’s more than just a teaching tool; it’s a gateway to deeper learning and discovery.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND SEE ATOM-25 IN-ACTION

Contact Us: For more information or to purchase the ATOM Shake Table for your classroom, reach out to us at sales@quakelogic.net. Let’s work together to make earthquake science an engaging and impactful part of your curriculum!

Last reviewed: 2026-07-04

Executive Summary

Shake tables reproduce controlled motion in the laboratory so engineers can evaluate components, assemblies, soil boxes, and structural models under seismic inputs. This article has been expanded as an engineering resource for readers evaluating shake tables concepts, instrumentation choices, and monitoring workflows. The discussion is educational and should be paired with project-specific review by qualified engineers, applicable codes, owner requirements, and equipment documentation.

Key Takeaways

  • Define the engineering objective before selecting sensors, test equipment, trigger thresholds, or reporting workflows.
  • Use calibrated instrumentation, documented installation practices, time synchronization, and traceable data handling where measurement quality matters.
  • Interpret measured data in context: site conditions, structure type, noise environment, sampling rate, bandwidth, and boundary conditions all affect conclusions.
  • Use authoritative references and project-specific criteria rather than relying on generic thresholds or unsupported performance claims.

Technical Explanation

In practical shake tables work, the engineering system is more than a sensor or a test platform. A credible workflow includes the measurement objective, instrument selection, mounting or boundary conditions, sampling and timing strategy, data validation, event or response detection, engineering review, and reporting. Weakness in any part of that chain can reduce confidence in the final interpretation.

For monitoring applications, engineers should document sensor orientation, coupling, environmental exposure, dynamic range, frequency bandwidth, data logger configuration, clock synchronization, communications, and maintenance procedures. For testing applications, engineers should document input motion, fixture design, payload properties, control limits, safety interlocks, acceptance criteria, and post-test data review.

Engineering Applications

ApplicationEngineering QuestionTypical Evidence Needed
Research and educationHow does a structure, component, or sensor respond under controlled conditions?Test plan, calibrated data, input motion, boundary conditions, and repeatable observations.
Critical infrastructureIs the asset response normal, changing, or potentially unsafe after an event?Baseline data, event records, thresholds, inspection workflow, and engineering sign-off.
Industrial facilitiesCan monitoring support operational continuity and response decisions?Site-specific criteria, reliable telemetry, alarm logic, maintenance records, and documented procedures.

People Also Ask

What should be specified before buying equipment?

Specify the measurement objective, frequency range, amplitude range, environment, data format, timing needs, installation constraints, reporting requirements, and applicable standards or owner criteria.

Why do references and standards matter?

They provide terminology, acceptance criteria, test methods, and documentation expectations. They do not replace engineering judgment, but they reduce ambiguity and make results easier to review.

How should data quality be checked?

Review calibration status, timing, clipping, sensor orientation, signal-to-noise ratio, environmental artifacts, data completeness, and whether the record supports the engineering decision being made.

Related QuakeLogic Resources

References

Recommended Diagram or Download

Media placeholder: Add an original diagram showing the measurement chain from sensor or test platform to data acquisition, analysis, engineering interpretation, and reporting. Where this article becomes a buyer guide or application note, create a downloadable PDF version after engineering review.

Discuss a Monitoring or Testing Application

QuakeLogic supports seismic monitoring, earthquake early warning, structural health monitoring, infrasound monitoring, vibration monitoring, data acquisition, and shake table testing applications. For project-specific guidance, contact QuakeLogic with the asset type, measurement objective, site constraints, and required deliverables.

UNI 9916 Standard and Peak Particle Velocity for Human Comfort

PPV versus frequency plot used for UNI 9916 vibration assessment of a building

In short: The UNI 9916 standard, 'Criteria for the Measurement of Vibrations and the Assessment of Their Effects on Buildings', is the Italian framework for measuring vibration and judging its effect on structures and occupants. Its primary metric is peak particle velocity, PPV = max|v(t)| in mm/s or in/s, computed over moving data windows and compared with thresholds that protect human comfort and structural integrity.

The UNI 9916 standard, formally titled “Criteria for the Measurement of Vibrations and the Assessment of Their Effects on Buildings,” is a crucial guideline in the field of vibration analysis and monitoring. This standard, established by the Italian National Unification Body (UNI), provides a comprehensive framework for assessing the impact of vibrations on structures and human comfort. A key metric in this standard is the Peak Particle Velocity (PPV), which plays a vital role in evaluating how vibrations affect human comfort. In this blog, we’ll delve into the UNI 9916 standard, its applications, and the significance of PPV in monitoring vibrations.

Overview of UNI 9916 Standard

The UNI 9916 standard outlines the methods for measuring and evaluating vibrations in buildings and structures to ensure they remain within acceptable limits. It is particularly concerned with the impact of vibrations on both the structural integrity of buildings and the comfort of their occupants. The standard is widely used in various sectors, including construction, transportation, and industrial operations, where vibrations can be a significant concern.

What is Peak Particle Velocity (PPV)?

Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) is a measure of the maximum speed at which particles in a material move due to vibrational energy. In simpler terms, it quantifies the intensity of vibrations. PPV is typically expressed in millimeters per second (mm/s) or inches per second (in/s). It is a critical parameter because it directly correlates with the potential for damage to structures and the level of discomfort experienced by humans.

How to Compute PPV

The PPV is calculated using the following formula:

PPV=max(|v(t)|)

where:

  • v(t) is the particle velocity at time t,
  • max(|v(t)|) represents the maximum absolute value of the particle velocity over a given time period.

In practical applications, the particle velocity v(t) is often measured using sensors placed on structures or in the ground. The PPV is then determined by analyzing the sensor data over a specified duration.

The Role of PPV in Human Comfort Evaluation

When it comes to human comfort, vibrations can be a source of annoyance, stress, and even health issues if they exceed certain thresholds. The UNI 9916 standard uses PPV as a primary metric to assess the impact of vibrations on human comfort. Here’s how PPV is employed in this context:

  1. Establishing Thresholds:
    The standard sets specific PPV thresholds that should not be exceeded to ensure human comfort. These thresholds are determined based on extensive research and field studies that consider the human body’s sensitivity to different vibration frequencies and intensities.
  2. Continuous Monitoring:
    By continuously monitoring PPV, engineers and facility managers can ensure that vibration levels remain within the acceptable range. This is particularly important in environments where vibrations are a constant, such as near construction sites, railways, or industrial operations.
  3. Mitigation Measures:
    If PPV readings exceed the thresholds, immediate action can be taken to mitigate the vibrations. This might involve altering operational procedures, installing vibration dampening systems, or even redesigning certain aspects of the infrastructure to reduce vibration transmission.
  4. Compliance and Reporting:
    Compliance with the UNI 9916 standard often requires regular reporting of PPV measurements. These reports help demonstrate that an organization is taking the necessary steps to protect both their structures and the well-being of occupants.

Moving Window Data Samples

To accurately measure PPV, the data is often analyzed using a moving window approach. This involves dividing the continuous stream of vibration data into smaller, overlapping segments or “windows.” Each window is analyzed separately to determine the PPV within that specific time frame.

The steps for using moving window data samples are as follows:

  1. Data Collection:
    Vibration data is continuously collected using sensors over a period of time.
  2. Windowing:
    The data is divided into overlapping segments or windows. The size of each window and the amount of overlap are chosen based on the specific application and desired resolution.
  3. PPV Calculation:
    For each window, the PPV is calculated using the formula mentioned above. This provides a series of PPV values corresponding to different time intervals.
  4. Analysis:
    The series of PPV values are analyzed to identify any periods where the vibrations exceed the acceptable thresholds. This helps in pinpointing specific events or activities that cause excessive vibrations.

Practical Applications

  1. Construction Sites:
    During construction activities, heavy machinery and demolition can generate significant vibrations. Monitoring PPV ensures that these vibrations do not adversely affect nearby buildings or the comfort of residents.
  2. Transportation Networks:
    Railways and highways are common sources of vibrations. By adhering to the UNI 9916 standard, transportation authorities can minimize the impact of these vibrations on adjacent properties and communities.
  3. Industrial Operations:
    Factories and plants often have equipment that generates continuous vibrations. Regular monitoring of PPV helps maintain a comfortable and safe environment for workers.

QuakeLogic’s Role in Vibration Monitoring

QuakeLogic provides advanced dataloggers, seismographs, and accelerographs equipped with built-in functions to compute and plot PPV values against frequencies, adhering to the UNI 9916 standard. These tools offer several advantages:

  1. Integrated GUI:
    QuakeLogic’s devices come with a user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) that allows for real-time monitoring and analysis of vibration data. The GUI can display PPV values across different frequencies, enabling quick assessment and decision-making.
  2. Automated Data Processing:
    The built-in software automatically processes the collected data, applying the moving window technique to compute PPV values. This automation ensures accuracy and consistency in the measurements.
  3. Visualization and Reporting:
    The devices can generate detailed plots showing PPV values against frequencies. These visualizations help in understanding the frequency components of the vibrations and their potential impact on human comfort and structural integrity.
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Conclusion

The UNI 9916 standard, “Criteria for the Measurement of Vibrations and the Assessment of Their Effects on Buildings,” is an essential tool for managing the effects of vibrations on structures and human comfort. By focusing on Peak Particle Velocity (PPV), the standard provides a clear and measurable way to evaluate and mitigate the impact of vibrations. Whether in construction, transportation, or industrial settings, adhering to this standard ensures that both buildings and their occupants are protected from the potentially harmful effects of excessive vibrations.

Understanding and implementing the UNI 9916 standard is crucial for engineers, facility managers, and anyone involved in operations where vibrations are a concern. QuakeLogic’s advanced vibration monitoring tools further enhance the ability to comply with this standard, providing accurate measurements, real-time analysis, and comprehensive reporting. By prioritizing human comfort and structural integrity, we can create safer and more pleasant environments for everyone.

About QuakeLogic

QuakeLogic is a leading provider of advanced seismic monitoring solutions, offering a range of products and services designed to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of testing, data acquisition, and analysis.

Contact Information:

For more information about our products and services, please visit our website or contact our sales team. We are here to help you with all your testing and monitoring needs.

Key Takeaways

  • UNI 9916 is issued by the Italian National Unification Body (UNI) and applies to construction, transportation and industrial vibration.
  • PPV is the maximum absolute particle velocity in a time window, PPV = max(|v(t)|), expressed in mm/s or in/s.
  • A moving-window method splits continuous data into overlapping segments and computes PPV per segment to pinpoint exceedance events.
  • Compliance involves set thresholds, continuous monitoring, mitigation when exceeded and regular PPV reporting.
  • QuakeLogic dataloggers, seismographs and accelerographs compute and plot PPV against frequency per UNI 9916 in a built-in GUI.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UNI 9916 standard?

The UNI 9916 standard, formally 'Criteria for the Measurement of Vibrations and the Assessment of Their Effects on Buildings', is published by the Italian National Unification Body. It defines how to measure and evaluate vibrations in buildings so they stay within acceptable limits for both structural integrity and occupant comfort, and it is used in construction, transportation and industrial settings.

How is peak particle velocity (PPV) calculated?

Peak particle velocity is calculated as PPV = max(|v(t)|), the maximum absolute value of particle velocity over a chosen time period. Velocity v(t) is measured with sensors mounted on the structure or in the ground, and the PPV is extracted from that record. It is expressed in millimeters per second or inches per second and correlates with both structural damage potential and human discomfort.

Why does UNI 9916 use a moving window for PPV?

UNI 9916 practice analyzes vibration with a moving window: the continuous data stream is divided into overlapping segments, PPV is computed for each segment, and the resulting series is checked against thresholds. This localizes exactly when vibrations exceeded limits, so specific activities such as a demolition event or train pass can be identified and mitigated rather than being lost in a single overall maximum.

How does PPV relate to human comfort?

Vibrations above certain levels cause annoyance, stress and even health effects, so UNI 9916 sets PPV thresholds based on research into how the human body responds to different vibration frequencies and intensities. Continuous PPV monitoring near construction sites, railways or factories verifies levels stay acceptable, triggers mitigation such as changed procedures or damping systems, and supports compliance reporting.

Which instruments compute PPV according to UNI 9916?

QuakeLogic dataloggers, seismographs and accelerographs include built-in functions that compute PPV with the moving-window technique and plot PPV against frequency in accordance with UNI 9916. Their graphical interface shows results in real time for quick assessment, and the devices generate the plots and reports needed to document compliance.

Need help with a project? QuakeLogic designs and supplies seismic monitoring, earthquake early warning, structural health monitoring, infrasound, and shake table systems. Browse QuakeLogic products or contact our engineering team with your site, structure, or test requirements.