CI/SfB
(35)
Xy
May 2016
INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
FOR SEISMIC APPLICATIONS
What Causes Seismic Activity?
The earth’s surface is made up of a series of (Tectonic) plates that move
n relation to each other. The lines where these plates meet are called fault lines
and movement and stresses at these points can send shock waves through
the ground. These shock waves are known as seismic waves and result in
vibrations that at their most severe can cause immense damage to buildings
and other structures, communication networks and indeed lives.
Armstrong Seismic Rx® System is a fully and independently tested approach
to achieving ceiling installations that can withstand the forces associated with
significant seismic activity or other severe events.
WIDER APPLICATIONS
In addition to earthquakes, there are several other industries with associated
risks (e.g. Blast protection) where the use of Seismic Rx® System will provide
additional protection for the ceiling e.g.
• Nuclear installations
• Defence establishments
• Chemical installations
• Transport installations (with intermittent vibrations)
Another major application area is in hospitals and emergency management
facilities (fire brigade, police stations etc.). These are installations where it is
important for the facility to be fully functional after an earthquake or other
severe event.
The Seismic Rx® system provides the additional security required for seismic
resistance using specifically designed elements for minimised installation
complexity with maximum performance.
1
European-Mediterranean
Seismic Hazard Map
INCREASING
RISK OF
SEISMIC
ACTIVITY
For suspended ceilings, the requirements to resist (as far as is possible) the
additional forces associated with seismic events requires us to categorise the
associated levels of risk. We are then able to offer suitable solutions to minimise
the risk of failure for each of these potential hazard levels:
• LOW HAZARD
• MODERATE HAZARD
• HIGH / VERY HIGH HAZARD
HIGH/VERY
HAZARD*
HIGH/VERY HIGH
HIGH HAZARD*
MODERATE
MODERATE HAZARD*
HAZARD*
LOW HAZARD*
HAZARD*
LOW
2
TOENEMEND RISICO SEISMISCHE ACTIVITEIT
ARMSTRONG CEILINGS EUROPE
* For low seismic risk areas, standard
non-seismic installations in accordance
with Armstrong recommendations are
suitable solutions.
2
PEAK
PEAKGROUND
GROUNDACCELERATION
ACCELERATION (m/s
(m/s 2 ))
10%
PERIOD
10%PROBABILITY
PROBABILITYIN
IN50
50YEARS.
YEARS.475-YEAR
475-YEAR RETURN
RETURN PERIOD
0
0.2
LOW
LOW
0.4
HAZARD
HAZARD
0.8
1.6
MODERATE
MODERATE
HAZARD
HAZARD
2.4
3.2
HIGH
HIGH
HAZARD
HAZARD
4.0
4.8
VERY
HIGH
VERY HIGH
HAZARD
HAZARD
Scale from the Global Seismic Hazard Assessment Program
How do we know it works?
FULL-SCALE SEISMIC TESTED –
STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK, UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO
Armstrong has partnered with The University at Buffalo to test our standard
and non-standard products for seismic performance using:
• Dynamic Testing – Seismic Qualification by Shake Table Testing
• Static Testing – Vertical, Compression and Tension Loads
The University at Buffalo’s (UB) Structural Engineering and Earthquake
Simulation Laboratory (SEESL) provides research services for the George E.
Brown, Jr. Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation (NEES),
The Multidisciplinary Centre for Earthquake Engineering Research (MCEER),
the Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering (CSEE),
and R&D services for industry: Seismic Rx®
ICC-ES (International Code Council – Evaluation Service) the engineering and
evaluation arm of the International Code Council (the USA Building Code
authority) recognises the Armstrong Seismic Rx® Suspension System as a
United States code-compliant solution for severe risk seismic events (as
published in ESR-1308). These tests= followed the procedures outlined in the
ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria for Seismic Qualification Testing of Non-structural
Components, AC 156. The seismic simulation was based on the mapped
spectral accelerations (from the International Building Code, 2006 ed.) at short
periods up to 300% gravity.
Structural Engineering and Earthquake Simulation
Laboratory -SEESL
3
SEESL’s twin re-located shake tables
Armstrong Seismic Rx® System
UTILISING STANDARD PRELUDE 24 XL2 SECTIONS AND SPECIFIC
SEISMIC ACCESSORIES
There are two recommendations for the Seismic Rx® System:
1. One addresses the concerns of moderate hazard areas and includes
the use of T 3024 H perimeter trim, bracing and the BERC2
perimeter clips.
2. For high / very high hazard areas the recommendation includes
T 3024 H perimeter trim, the BERC2 perimeter clips, bracing,
separation joints and special provisions at lights & ventilation grilles.
The Seismic Rx® System will fulfil the requirements of both areas but at a
much lower installed cost than conventional systems.
All of these systems have been proven to perform through full-scale
seismic testing, and are suitable for the full range of Armstrong Board,
Tegular and Vector * edge detailed tiles.
* 2 Vector seismic clips per panel for moderate and high/very high hazards.
ELEMENT
MODERATE HAZARD SYSTEM
HIGH / VERY HIGH HAZARD SYSTEM
PERIMETER TRIM
T 3024H
MAIN RUNNER
HANGERS
Wire or rigid hangers* on Main Runners at maximum 1200mm centres
Last hanger distance to perimeter < 200mm
PERIMETER CROSS
TEE HANGERS
Optional additional hangers < 200mm
from perimeter on all Cross Tees if
BERC2 clips used
Not Required If BERC2 clips used
Every15m2
4-WAY BRACING
PERIMETER CLIPS
BERC2
• Fixed with screws on two tight walls
• No screws on 10mm clearance walls
BERC2
• Fixed with screws on two tight walls
• No screws on 10mm clearance walls
CROSS TEES AND
MAIN RUNNERS
Cut tight to two adjacent walls and
10mm away from other two
Cut tight to two adjacent walls and
20mm away from other two
SEISMIC JOINTS
Not required
FOR AREAS > 250m2
SJMR / ES 4 / SJCG
*Quick hanger type hook connections to Main Runner and soffit must be closed over on
installation. All Main Runner hangers to be installed <10 degrees from vertical
The concept behind the Seismic Rx® System is to ensure that the horizontal
and vertical movements (acceleration) of the building and building elements do
not cause a collapse of the ceiling system. This is achieved by allowing for a
degree of movement between the system elements whilst maintaining the
integrity of the grid and ceiling panels.
4
Moderate Hazard Seismic Rx®System
• T 3024 H perimeter trim
• BERC2 on all (four) sides of room prevents ends of Cross Tees
and Main Runners from spreading apart
• 10mm clearance on two adjacent sides
Attached wall
Učvršćeni
zid
A
Attached
wall detail
Učvršćeni
dio zida
A
A
A
Main
Glavni
Runner
nosač
Tight
Screw
Učvršćeno
A
vijkom
Main
Glavni
Runner
nosač
x
x
x
x
A
Unattached wall
detail
Neučvršćeni
dio
zida
Attached
Wall
Učvršćeni
zid
30 mm
A
Cross
Poprečni
Tee
nosač
A
A
Cross
Poprečni
Tee
nosač
x
x
A
30 mm
10 mm
600
mm c/c
600mm
c/c
A
x
B
B
x
B
Unattached wall
Neučvršćeni
zid
THE BERC2 CLIP
3
Specially
developed by Armstrong based on extensive research, the BERC2
clips over the perimeter trim and cut Cross Tees or Main Runners. This provides
support for the ends of the grid and prevents them spreading apart during a
seismic event.
Equivalent systems without the BERC2 clip require:
• additional hangers on all perimeter Cross Tees
• spacer bars around perimeter to prevent grid elements spreading
• 8-10mm clearance on all four sides
5
High / Very High Hazard Seismic Rx® System
• T 3024 H perimeter trim
• BERC2 on all (four) sides of room prevents ends of Cross Tees and Main Runners from
spreading apart
• 20mm clearance on two adjacent sides and 10mm overlap of grid on the perimeter trim
Attached Wall
Učvršćeni
zid
Attached Wall
Učvršćeni
dioDetail
zida
Učvršćeno
Tight Screw
vijkom
B
B
A
A
Main
Glavni
Runner
nosač
200mm
MAX
200
mm MAKS.
Main
Glavni
Runner
nosač
x
x
x
x
x
x
B
Unattacheddio
Wallzida
Detail
Neučvršćeni
200mm
MAX
200
mm MAKS.
20 mm
Unattached zid
Wall
Neučvršćeni
30 mm
30 mm
A
B
B
B
B
600
mm c/c
600mm
Optional
DodatniScrew
vijak
B
c/c
x
B
B
x
B
Neučvršćeni zid
Hanger
Žica Wire
visilice
Unattached Wall
x
Note: some recommendations / guidelines require additional hangers on perimeter
Cross Tees within 200mm of the perimeter. This is not a requirement of the
Seismic Rx® solution using the BERC2 clip, but may also be incorporated to
provide additional system security in very high hazard areas e.g. emergency
services control centre, where full functionality is planned post event.
6
Bracing Details
Bracing becomes necessary in a seismic installation, as they provide additional restraint
to the dynamic lateral (and vertical) forces imparted by the seismic waves. These braces
should be installed every 15m2.
At each brace position four 2mm wire hangers are fixed at 45° to horizontal; and at right
angles to each other.
Kruta čelična otvorena konzola, standardni
Rigid steel open bracket standard
These must be within 50mm of
svornjak
zaorsuhi
zid ili slično*
drywall stud
similar*
*Supplied by others.
the rigid vertical hanger and
*Od drugih dobavljača.
attached directly to the Main
Runner.
45º
ILI MANJE
LESS
45º OR
LESSr
45º45º
ILIOR
MANJE
Also, as an alternative to wire,
rigid angle / channel hangers
may also be used for angled
bracing members.
Note: Threaded rod rigid
hanger assembly may be used
at the bracing positions for
moderate hazard systems only.
LESS
45º45ºILIOR
MANJE
45º OR
LESS
45º
ILI MANJE
PRELUDE
PRELUDE XL²
XL²
POPREČNI
NOSAČ
CROSS
TEE
PRELUDE
PRELUDE
MAIN RUNNER
GLAVNI NOSAČ
Separation Joint Layouts
For high / very high hazard areas >250m2, seismic joints must be installed in
the suspended ceiling:
200/250 mm
Seismic Joint Clip –
Cross Tee (SJCG)
Seismic Joint Clip –
Main Runner (SJMR)
• ES 4 cover strip gives architects and designers a clean look
SEISMISCHE VERBINDINGSCLIP DWARSPROFIEL (SJCG)
• Saves contractors time with a reliable installation method
• Gives architects and designers a clean look
SEISMIC JOINT CLIP – MAIN RUNNER (SJMR)
• Easily installs in minutes at Main Runner splice
• Saves contractors time with a reliable installation method
• Maintains integrity of ceiling module, unlike field
assembled alternatives
• Installs in minutes, no need to cut the face of the grid to install clip
• Eliminates the need for additional hanger wires
• Allows for full acoustical panel at the joint
• Maintains integrity of the ceiling module, unlike field assembled
alternatives
• Easier to keep the ceiling system square
• Allows the use of full size panels
• Works with our PeakForm® and square bulb Prelude 24 XL2 grid
Main Runner/ Cross Tee
600 x1200 layout
1200
Main 600
Runner
SJMR
Main
Runner
SJMR
1200 Cross Tee
SJCG
SJCG
SJMR
SJCG
SJCG
SJCG
7
SJMR
Main Runner Seismic Joint Clip
HOW TO INSTALL THE SEISMIC JOINT CLIP –
MAIN RUNNER
It’s simple to install with these easy steps:
Step 1: Install complete grid system.
Follow typical procedures except that all Main
Runner splices must line up across the space.
Step 2: Prepare the Main Runner splice to
receive the separation joint clip by cutting the
Superlock clip from the left side of the
connection and removing 20mm from the end
of the Main Runner on the right.
Step 3: Install the clip using the screws
provided. Screws #1 and #2 install through the
holes in the clip and into the right hand Main
Runner.
#3
Step 4: Align the indexing nib with the lower
hole on the left hand Runner and insert screws
#3 & 4 into the upper holes.
#4
Indexing
Indexing
Nib
#2
Nib
#1
Step 5: Snap the ES 4 expansion sleeve
over the gap at the face of the Main Runner
and crimp the four corners with a pair of
pliers.
200/250 mm
Main Runner/Cross Tee
600 x1200 layout
1200
Main 600
Runner
Main
Runner
SJMR
SJMR
1200 Cross Tee
SJCG
SJCG
SJMR
SJCG
SJCG
SJCG
8
SJMR
Cross Tees Seismic Joint Clip
HOW TO INSTALL THE SEISMIC SEPARATION JOINT CLIP.
It’s simple to install with these easy steps:
Step 1: Install suspension system completely, in a
conventional manner.
Step 2: Decide upon which run of Main
Runners to create the seismic separation.
Note: the Seismic Joint Clip allows for Cross
Tees to move along the axis of the Cross Tees.
Main Runner/Cross Tee
600 x1200 layout
1200
Main 600
Runner
Step 3: Attach two adjacent sides of each
section of the divided ceiling to the structure.
Main
Runner
SJMR
SJMR
1200 Cross Tee
Where these sections touch the wall the
attachment may be by means of the BERC2
clip with a tight screw. Sections that do not
touch walls on two adjacent sides must be
braced to structure.
SJCG
SJCG
SJMR
SJMR
SJCG
SJCG
SJCG
Step 4: Cut XL2 clip through the end details of
Cross Tees inserted into Main Runner designated
for the seismic separation.
Note: This should be done one intersection at a
time or the grid system will fall apart.
Step 5: Assemble the two sides of joint clip
into one unit.
Step 6: Snap completed assembly over the bulb of the
Main Runner at the intersection of the Cross Tees.
Step 7: Insert a 6mm long M6 screw through slot in clip, into the
upper XL2 clip stake hole. Use vertical stamp mark below the
horizontal slot to properly position the screw within the clip. Install
one screw from each side of the assembled clip to hold the proper
shape.
Do not allow screw threads to strip out the stake hole.
9
Complete
Services / Ceiling Penetrations for
High / Very High Hazard system
All services elements such as luminaires, ventilation grilles, etc... should be independently
supported to structure.
GENERAL NOTES:
Seismic Rx® utilises the Armstrong Prelude 24mm XL2 grid system only.
All hanger to grid connectors and top fixings to have minimum of 46kg pull-out strength.
Seismic Rx® system is applicable to flat horizontal ceiling installations only.
In addition to room perimeters, consideration for ceiling movement should be made for all
structural penetrations e.g. Columns where the perimeter trim should also have a 30mm
projecting leg and clearances in the same direction as the perimeter walls.
All high density ceiling tiles (e.g. metal, wood) should be positively attached to the grid or
secured directly to the soffit with two slack wires in high / very high hazard areas to
prevent injury if dislodged during severe seismic event.
Armstrong has conducted significant research and testing on seismic installations for both
standard and non-standard ceiling systems and can provide test data and further
guidance on request.
REGULATORY / GUIDELINE REFERENCES:
Eurocode 8: EN1998-1 – Design of structures for earthquake resistance. General
rules, seismic actions and rules for building
EN13964 – Suspended Ceilings – Requirements and test methods
NF DTU 58.1 P1-1 (Clause 6.10) – French suspended ceiling norm
ASTM E580 / E580M – Standard Practice for Application of Ceiling Suspension
Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas Requiring Seismic Restraint
ASTM C635 / C 635M – Standard Specification for the Manufacture, Performance,
and Testing of Metal Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panel
Ceilings
ASTM C636 / C636M - Standard Practice for Installation of Metal Ceiling Suspension
Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panels
CISCA - US Ceilings & Interiors Systems Construction Association
DISCLAIMER:
The information in this document is for guidance only; several European countries have published
regulations / guidelines for building design in seismic sensitive areas. Applicable regulations in each
case should take precedence
10
Product List for the Seismic Rx®System
Universal Main Runners Prelude 24 Peakform and Superlock Clip (bulb-to-bulb connection)
Item Nr.
Dimensions
Content / Carton
length (mm) height (mm)
31 40 32 A(1)
31 41 33 B
3600
3750
43
43
pcs
20
20
Weight / Carton
lm
Cartons / Pallet
kg
72,00
75,00
21,00
22,00
30
30
Cross Tees Prelude 24 XL2 (stab system, override)
Cross Tees slotted
31 30 51 B(1)
31 31 51 B(1)
1200
1250
38
38
60
60
72,00
75,00
18,20
19,00
72
72
30
30
60
60
36,00
37,50
8,20
8,60
144
144
Cross Tees unslotted
31 20 21 A(1)
31 21 23 A(1)
600
625
Accessories
Item Nr.
Description
Dimensions Quantity / Carton
length (mm)
pcs
Weight /Carton
kg
Cartons /
Pallet
3000
40
28,50
50
50
200
9,00
36
-
200
7,00
36
T 3024 H
Perimeter angle, painted
BERC2
Main Runner and 60
Retaining Clip
SJCG
Seismic Joint Clip
XL2 Cross Tee (24mm)
ES 4
Expansion Sleeve (24mm)
100
1,00
170
SJMR15
Seismic Joint Clip
Peakform Main Runner (24mm)
100
11,00
60
442
Vector Seismic Clip
100
1,63
-
-
1) Standaard kleuren beschikbaar: BK (Black),CA (Carrara), PN (Platinum), BS (Brass), CE (Chrome), SG (RAL9006),
WR (RAL 9010). Voor speciale kleuren is er keuze uit 180 RAL kleuren. Voor meer informatie kunt u contact opnemen
met onze klantenservice.
11
www.armstrongceilings.co.uk
www.armstrongceilings.ie
Other markets: www.armstrongceilings.eu
PG1403 Job. Produced by The Design Quorum, Tel: 01625 675232 - May 2016
United Kingdom
Republic of Ireland
Armstrong World Industries Ltd.
Building Products Division
Armstrong House
38 Market Square
Uxbridge UB8 1NG
E
EEFON
0800 371849 (UK) FR
1800 409002 (ROI)
Fax: +44 (0) 1895 274287
sales-support@armstrong.com