Steel Framing for Machines in the UK

[vincentpa]

I was asked to design the steel support frames for 3 machines in the UK for a steel mill. The machines and steel support frames will be built in the US and shipped to the UK. The machines are 43'x12' and the support frames need to be 15' high. I will also be designing platforms and stairs to access the ends of the machines.

What code should I use to design the steel? Can I use AISC?

How do I find the seismic accelerations for the UK? Can I use them with ASCE 7?

 

[civilperson]

Use the code the client requests. Probably the local plan reviewer will be knowledgeable of the local code, so call him and check. AISC steel shapes are probably not available in UK without importation. Call local steel supply and request list of available shapes and properties.

 

[civilperson]

Sorry. Missed the part of shipping from US to UK. Design with US shapes and format calcs to local code.

 

[valleyboy]

The universally accepted code for design of steel structures in the UK is BS 5950.

There is no current requirement to design for seismic activity, although I believe this will change with the implementation of EC7.

 

[Ussuri]

Any dynamic issues with the operation of the machines? This may generate accelerations which need to be considered.

I understand there are certain circumstances where seismic needs to be considered (we do get earthquakes in the UK, but they are pretty small) but these are determined depending on the Client and a risk assessment. For instance, certain aspects of nuclear power stations are designed to be earthquake resistant because the consequences of failure are severe.