by Rebecca Walker — September 15, 2008—ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 171-2008, Method of Testing Seismic Restraint Devices for HVAC&R Equipment, provides manufacturers a standard way of testing such devices to prequalify products for earthquake-prone areas.
It is the first national standard for seismic restraint testing of non-structural components that does not require shaker table testing, which is the required testing form in many California projects, notes ASHRAE. Standard 171 provides provide static-test procedures for determining the capacity of seismic restraints for HVAC&R equipment. These test procedures determine the maximum force a restraint can withstand without breakage or permanent deformation.
Manufacturers of vibration isolators, seismic restraint vendors and strut channels can use the standard to test their products’ suitability for standing up to earthquake conditions, and consulting engineers can use the standard as a reference in specifications.
The cost of Standard 171-2008 is $39, $31, ASHRAE members. To order, contact ASHRAE Customer Service at 1-800-527-4723 (United States and Canada) or 404-636-8400 (worldwide), by mail at 1791 Tullie Circle NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, or visit the ASHRAE Web site.
