Reconnaissance Report of Chilean Industrial Facilities Affected by the 2010 Chile Offshore Bío-Bío Earthquake

Abstract

This paper summarizes findings of an EERI reconnaissance team and a group of Chilean experts on damage to industrial facilities caused by the 27 February 2010 Offshore Bío-Bío Earthquake and ensuing tsunami. Chile's industry as a whole was severely affected when major industrial plants such as paper mills, wood mills, thermoelectric power plants, and oil and gas refineries were shut down following the earthquake either in response to the damage sustained or to maintain structural and environmental safety. Damage resulted primarily from ground shaking; however, it was exacerbated by the ensuing tsunami in coastal areas. Important industrial sectors, such as the wine industry and fishing, pulp and paper industries, suffered severely. Observed damage was primarily due to inadequate anchorage of equipment, differential movements between adjacent supports of piping and equipment, foundation displacements, and failure of non-structural elements and equipment.