Seismic Parameterization of Industrial Racks: Case Study in Mexico

Jose Manuel Cazarez Rubio¹, Ulises Mena Hernández², Luis Humberto Mendoza Garcilazo³, 

Sal Fateen⁴, and Francessco Lippi⁵

5. S.I.T.A. S.R.L. Studio di Ingegneria. Italy

 Abstract: Industrial racks are nowadays one of the most important component of logistic systems for modern industrial and commercial processes. As under standard operating condition an industrial rack store a very large volume of products, usually between 80-90% of its full capacity, any structural damage or fail can interrupt the whole production or logistic chains and conduct to significant economic losses. Among others, seismic events can produce important and extensive damages to industrial racks and thus conduce to the interruption of logistic/industrial regular service. In this paper an analysis of the seismic response of industrial rack structures in Mexico area is discussed. By addressing the lack of seismic design criteria for such structures in the country, the authors underscore the critical importance of ensuring structural safety in industrial facilities to safeguard both assets and lives. Through a detailed examination of seismic regulations, design spectra, and structural response characterization, they offer valuable insights into the factors influencing the behavior of industrial racks during seismic events. Moreover, this study proposes structural parameters essential for seismic response assessment in Mexico area, including a proposal for the scaling of transparent spectrum in bedrock obtained from the uniform seismic hazard tool PRODISIS software of the Mexican Republic, providing a systematic framework for designing and evaluating the resilience of industrial rack systems. Additionally, the need for further research and collaboration to enhance the understanding and regulation of rack structures, emphasizing the importance of empirical data and rigorous testing methodologies, is also highlighted. Overall, this can provide a valuable contribution to the field of structural engineering, offering practical guidance for designing seismic-resistant industrial rack systems in Mexico and potentially informing similar efforts globally.

 Key words: rack design, Mexican criteria, seismic design, storage racks, spectral parameters