Study on Improvement of Functional Maintenance Performance for High-Pressure Gas Facilities Using Vibration Control Devices (First Report, Basic Concept for Improving Functional Maintenance Performance Using Vibration Control Devices)

Abstract As a severe earthquake with an extremely high probability of occurrence within 30 years is predicted in Japan, countermeasures to maintain the functionality of ground surface structures are an urgent issue. In this study, the basic concept of applying vibration control devices to high-pressure gas facilities was discussed analytically. Nonlinear time-history response analysis using a concentrated mass model and finite element model was performed. The objectives of the study were to determine the types of vibration control devices that are suitable for high-pressure gas facilities and structures, specifications of the vibration control devices, and vibration control effects. Several typical types of vibration control devices were applied in the response analysis. As a result, it was confirmed that the application of vibration control devices to high-pressure gas facilities should be considered from a realistic perspective in terms of the appropriate stiffness distribution method to ensure the vibration control effect, method of balancing the specifications of the vibration control devices, and appropriate arrangement method. In addition, it is necessary to evaluate the high-pressure gas facility as a structural system, including its response reduction effect and impact on structural support piles. It is also important to develop design methods and considerations for applying vibration control devices to high-pressure gas facilities, evaluation methods for vibration control effects, and standards and criteria.