Authors: Roberto Laranja, Ana Carreira, João M. C. Estêvão

Vibration induced by rotating machines is a problem that can affect the regular functioning of a structural system as well as the comfort of exposed users, because humans are sensitive to vibrations, namely when certain acceleration levels are exceeded. This can lead to discomfort and health problems, so it is of utmost importance to measure these vibration levels. In addition, continued vibration may lead to fatigue phenomena in structural systems. In this work, a case study is presented where the use of in situ dynamic tests is illustrated, namely to support the assessment of the ultimate safety and serviceability of an industrial reinforced concrete building, which showed signs of structural anomalies and where workers felt the vibrations induced by the factory machines.

Roberto Laranja¹ | Ana Carreira¹ | João M. C. Estêvão¹
1 Departamento de Engenharia Civil, ISE, Universidade do Algarve, Portugal