Abstract:
A new Structures Testing Laboratory complex with a 14.5 m high test space was constructed at the Newmarket campus of the University of Auckland and opened in 2015. This world class facility has a 9 m high reaction wall in two directions, a 20 x 10 m strong floor with basement access, a 3.6 m square 15T capacity earthquake shake table, an extensive set of test equipment and integrated ancillary laboratories and workshops. The layout of the lab, the extent and capacity of the more significant pieces of equipment, the overall capability and management of the facility are described. This facility has been provided to support the high quality research being undertaken by the structures group in the internationally ranked department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. There are a number of significant research activities that are initiated in the department, and those from national collaborations such as QuakeCoRE and international collaborations. In addition, the new facilities offer increased opportunities for commercial testing projects.