Why Vertical Seismic Testing Matters for Safety

In seismic design, nonstructural components—such as mechanical equipment, electrical systems, architectural elements, and mounted devices—often govern life-safety risk during earthquakes. To address this, the building-code community relies on a standardized testing protocol known as AC156.

This article explains what AC156 is, why vertical (Z-axis) testing matters, and how QuakeLogic’s SHAKEBOT-40Z enables AC156-style vertical seismic demand testing for laboratories, manufacturers, and research institutions.

What Is AC156?

AC156 is the Acceptance Criteria for Seismic Qualification Testing of Nonstructural Components, published by ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES).

AC156 defines how shake-table testing must be performed to demonstrate that nonstructural components can safely withstand seismic demand required by modern U.S. building codes, including the International Building Code (IBC) and ASCE 7.

Important:
AC156 is not a product certification.
It is a testing methodology used to evaluate component performance.

Why Vertical (Z-Axis) Seismic Testing Matters

While AC156 is commonly associated with horizontal (X- and Y-axis) testing, vertical seismic demand is critical for many components, especially those subject to:

  • Uplift forces
  • Compression–tension cycling
  • Anchor bolt pull-out
  • Loss of gravity load path
  • Vertical resonance effects

Vertical testing is particularly relevant for:

  • Rooftop and floor-mounted equipment
  • Suspended or braced systems
  • Racks, cabinets, and electrical assemblies
  • Anchored mechanical and piping components

As vertical ground motion becomes better understood, AC156-style vertical testing is increasingly requested by engineers of record, hospitals, and code reviewers.

How AC156 Testing Works (Simplified)

AC156 specifies:

  • Required Response Spectra (RRS) derived from seismic design parameters
  • Broad-band random motion, not simple sine sweeps
  • Acceleration verification at the shake table and test article
  • Defined test duration and repetition
  • Performance criteria, including:
    • No collapse or detachment
    • Anchorage integrity
    • Continued function when required

Compliance depends on test execution, instrumentation, and engineering judgment—not on the shake table alone.

Introducing the SHAKEBOT-40Z Vertical Shake Table

The SHAKEBOT-40Z is QuakeLogic’s compact, high-performance single-axis vertical (Z-axis) shake table, purpose-built to apply controlled vertical acceleration, displacement, and frequency content representative of AC156 vertical seismic demand.

According to the official datasheet, the SHAKEBOT-40Z is designed to support AC156-style vertical testing, including uplift–compression response and controlled seismic time histories.

Key Capabilities for AC156-Style Vertical Testing

Purpose-Built Vertical Motion

The SHAKEBOT-40Z delivers pure Z-axis excitation, allowing laboratories to isolate vertical demand without horizontal coupling.

Closed-Loop Motion Control

High-resolution feedback enables repeatable vertical acceleration and displacement profiles, a core requirement for standardized seismic qualification testing.

Custom Seismic Inputs

Users can apply custom vertical time histories (CSV) derived from AC156-compatible spectra or site-specific motions, supporting both research and qualification testing.

Safety-Focused Design

Integrated software limits, mechanical end-stops, torque protection, and emergency stop functionality ensure safe operation during high-demand tests.

Typical Applications

The SHAKEBOT-40Z is well suited for:

  • AC156-style vertical seismic qualification testing
  • Uplift and compression response studies
  • Z-axis demand evaluation of nonstructural components
  • Academic and applied research on vertical ground motion
  • Laboratory instruction and demonstration testing

These applications are explicitly identified in the system documentation.

Why Laboratories Choose QuakeLogic

QuakeLogic designs shake-table systems that balance:

  • Technical rigor
  • Compact laboratory footprint
  • Cost-effective deployment
  • Reviewer-safe documentation
  • Cross-platform software control

The SHAKEBOT-40Z extends this philosophy into vertical seismic testing, filling a critical gap for labs and manufacturers addressing Z-axis demand.

Learn More

📄 Download the SHAKEBOT-40Z Datasheet
👉 shakebot-40z-vertical-shake-table-datasheet.pdf

📧 Questions about AC156 testing or vertical qualification?
Contact sales@quakelogic.net

🪐 SATURN Series Smart Seismic Switch — Intelligent Earthquake Detection for Industrial Safety

Revolutionizing Earthquake Safety for Industrial and Commercial Systems

In a world where every second counts, QuakeLogic’s SATURN Series Smart Seismic Switch delivers instant earthquake detection and control designed to protect critical infrastructure and operations. Built on cutting-edge digital sensing technology, SATURN offers unmatched reliability, precision, and compliance — setting a new benchmark for seismic safety automation.

Intelligent Detection. Instant Protection.

The SATURN Series uses an advanced solid-state tri-axial seismic sensor to continuously monitor ground acceleration (PGA) in three dimensions (X, Y, and Z). When an earthquake occurs, the system instantly detects both P-waves and S-waves, calculates seismic intensity, and triggers connected safety mechanisms such as:

  • Equipment and motor shutdowns
  • Elevator recalls to safe floors
  • Door and solenoid control
  • Facility-wide alarm or PA notifications

This intelligent, plug-and-play seismic switch ensures your operations are protected automatically — even when power is disrupted, thanks to its integrated battery backup and external charger.

Built for Harsh Environments and Critical Infrastructure

Engineered to perform in demanding industrial and commercial settings, SATURN is the ideal solution for:

  • Control rooms and manufacturing facilities
  • Refineries, power plants, and water treatment plants
  • Rail systems, data centers, and hospitals
  • OEM integrations and automation systems

The unit’s rugged aluminum housing, sealed electronics, and false-trigger immunity make it highly resistant to noise from heavy machinery, compressors, trains, or elevators.

Compliance You Can Trust

The SATURN Series fully complies with leading safety and engineering standards — including UL 508, ASCE 25-97, ASME A17.1, and CA3137.
It meets the strict requirements for industrial control panels, elevator seismic shutdowns, and critical facility protection, making it a trusted solution for safety-critical applications worldwide.

Smart Integration and Flexibility

Each SATURN Seismic Switch features:

  • Three Form-C relay outputs with dry, isolated contacts
  • User-selectable trigger levels to match local seismic codes
  • Configurable reset modes — manual latch or automatic timed trip (1–60 seconds)
  • Internal terminal block for simple wiring and installation

Whether you’re integrating it into a new automation system or retrofitting an existing network, SATURN ensures seamless performance and peace of mind.

Data That Drives Decisions

Beyond triggering safety mechanisms, SATURN records XYZ peak ground acceleration (PGA) data in g-force, giving engineers and operators valuable insight into event intensity and system performance.

🪐 Models and Options

Available Models

SATURN S-001
• Horizontal mount, NEMA 4 enclosure
• Integrated rechargeable battery and universal 110/220 VAC power adapter
• UL-certified for industrial and commercial installations
• Ideal for standalone operation or integration with facility safety systems

SATURN-EB
• Horizontal mount, NEMA 4 enclosure
• 24 VDC (10 W) external power input (no internal battery or adapter)
• Optimized for control panels and OEM integrations requiring DC supply

Optional Accessories & Upgrades

Vertical Wall-Mount Kit
• Converts the SATURN base configuration for vertical installation
• Includes mounting hardware and pre-drilled alignment template

Stainless-Steel Primary Enclosure (NEMA 4X)
• Enhanced corrosion resistance for harsh or outdoor environments
• Precision-machined housing with reinforced seals

Bypass Switch Assembly
• Enables temporary bypass of seismic trigger for maintenance or testing
• Front-panel mounted toggle with safety lockout feature

Stainless-Steel Secondary Enclosure (NEMA 4X)
• Factory-machined housing with baseplate cutout and ventilation ports
• Available in two enclosure sizes:
– 16 in × 16 in × 8 in
– 24 in × 24 in × 12 in
• Ideal for added environmental protection or multi-unit installations

Why Choose SATURN Series from QuakeLogic?

✅ Proven reliability under extreme conditions
✅ Fast, accurate, and maintenance-free operation
✅ Seamless industrial integration
✅ Built for NEC and UL compliance
✅ Designed and supported in the USA

Final Thoughts

The SATURN Series Smart Seismic Switch isn’t just an instrument — it’s an intelligent safeguard that keeps your people, systems, and operations protected during seismic events.

NEED ONE? CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

When every millisecond matters, SATURN delivers confidence through precision.

UAV Detection Using Infrasound: The Power of SIS-1 Infrasound Sensors

Silent Threats Demand Silent Detection

As unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) — or drones — become increasingly common in both civilian and military airspace, the need for reliable long-range UAV detection systems has never been greater. Conventional radar and optical systems face limitations in complex terrain or adverse weather. That’s where infrasound sensing technology comes in.

The SIS-1 Infrasound Sensor offers a cutting-edge approach to detecting and tracking UAVs using low-frequency acoustic waves, providing continuous, all-weather surveillance that complements existing radar or visual systems.

What Is Infrasound and Why It Works for UAV Detection

Infrasound refers to sound waves below the threshold of human hearing — typically below 20 Hz. These low-frequency waves can travel long distances and penetrate obstacles like hills, forests, and buildings.

Every UAV or drone produces a unique acoustic signature due to its propellers, engines, and aerodynamic behavior. The SIS-1 sensor detects these subtle infrasound emissions and distinguishes them from natural background noise through advanced filtering and signal processing.

This allows operators to identify, locate, and track drones even when they are invisible to the naked eye or radar — including small UAVs flying at low altitudes or beyond line of sight.

The SIS-1 Advantage

The SIS-1 Infrasound Sensor is purpose-built for field and defense applications requiring high sensitivity, low noise, and energy-efficient performance.

⚙️ Key Features

  • Detection Range: 0.1 Hz – 50 Hz (−3 dB bandwidth)
  • High Sensitivity: 2.5 – 3.5 mV/Pa for faint UAV signatures
  • Ultra-Low Noise: Below the Low Noise Model (LNM) under 1 Hz
  • Low Power Draw: < 5 mA @ 12 V — ideal for solar-powered systems
  • Compact & Lightweight: 156 mm diameter, 67 mm height, 850 g
  • Rugged Design: Operational between −20 °C and +60 °C
  • Differential Output: For scalable multi-node detection networks

These specifications make SIS-1 perfect for deployment in permanent arrays, tactical mobile units, and long-term border installations.

Applications Across Defense and Security

QuakeLogic’s infrasound technology enables multiple use cases in national security and surveillance:

  • UAV Detection & Tracking: Identify acoustic signatures of drones up to several kilometers away.
  • Border Surveillance: Monitor unauthorized aerial movements in restricted zones.
  • Explosion & Gunshot Detection: Detect and locate blasts or weapon discharges in real time.
  • Multi-Hazard Monitoring: Integrate with environmental sensors for seismic, volcanic, and atmospheric observation.
  • Smart Sensor Networks: Combine multiple SIS-1 units to form synchronized arrays for precise triangulation and trajectory calculation.

Easy Integration & Deployment

Each SIS-1 sensor is equipped with standard differential output and low-voltage operation, enabling direct integration with QuakeLogic dataloggers, signal processors, and visualization software. The system can be configured for:

  • Real-Time UAV Acoustic Detection
  • Automatic Threat Classification
  • Event Recording and Remote Data Streaming

Combined with wind-noise reduction systems, SIS-1 delivers clear and reliable infrasound data even in challenging environments.

Why Choose QuakeLogic for UAV Detection

QuakeLogic brings decades of experience in seismic, infrasound, and structural monitoring systems to the defense and research sectors. The SIS-1 sensor reflects our commitment to precision engineering, reliability, and ease of deployment.

When integrated into your existing defense or border infrastructure, the SIS-1 becomes a force multiplier — adding a silent, passive detection layer capable of identifying aerial threats in all conditions.

Ready for Mission-Critical Monitoring

From UAV surveillance and perimeter protection to scientific field studies, SIS-1 is the trusted choice for organizations that demand uncompromised performance.

Click Here to Learn More About SIS-1

📩 Contact us today to learn how the SIS-1 Infrasound Sensor can strengthen your defense and UAV detection capabilities.