Seismic Vulnerability Index for Lifeline Facilities

Abstract eng:
A simple index, vulnerability factor (V-factor), is introduced for evaluation of seismic vulnerability of lifeline network facilities. In widely-used statistical models for estimation of number of pipe breaks and joint failure in the event of earthquakes, correction factors are defined to represent relative vulnerability with respect to various pipe diameters, pipe materials, and joint types. Such correction factors are averaged over the entire networks on the basis of extended length of pipelines classified by pipe diameter, pipe material, and joint type. Applications are shown for water delivery systems in Japan. The nation-wide distribution of the V-factor demonstrates a significant diversity in terms of seismic vulnerability. Reduction of vulnerability in the ten-year period after the South Hyogo prefecture (Kobe) Earthquake in 1995 is also quantified. On the average, pipe damage is expected to be reduced by 20-25% compared to pre-Kobe event situation when exposed to the same level of ground motion.

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