ASTM E3118/E3118M-22

Standard Test Methods to Evaluate Seismic Performance of Suspended Ceiling Systems by Full-Scale Dynamic Testing

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The test protocol evaluates those complex suspended ceiling systems that cannot be assessed by simple engineering calculations contained in ASCE/SEI 7 and Practice E580/E580M. It is not intended to replace the requirements in ASCE/SEI 7. Suspended ceiling systems are considered nonstructural components of buildings.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods help evaluate the performance of a full-scale suspended ceiling system during a seismic event using a dynamic seismic simulator (shake table).  
1.2 These full-scale procedures are not the only available procedures for evaluating the seismic performance of ceiling systems. These tests do not preclude the use of other small-scale or full-scale component or system testing.  
1.3 These test methods contain two independent procedures.  
1.3.1 Comparative method where the level of performance of an experimental system is compared to that of a control test system under the same set of conditions.  
1.3.2 Non-comparative method where a single test is conducted to establish the level of performance of an experimental system.  
1.4 These test procedures are valid and useful for all types of suspended ceiling systems.  
1.5 The text of this standard uses notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.  
1.6 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.  
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Dec-2021
• ICS: 91.060.30 - Ceilings. Floors. Stairs
• ICS: 91.120.25 - Seismic and vibration protection
• Technical Committee: E06 - Performance of Buildings
• Drafting Committee: E06.11 - Horizontal and Vertical Structures/Structural Performance of Completed Structures

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E3090/E3090M-19 - Standard Test Methods for Strength Properties of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM C636/C636M-19 - Standard Practice for Installation of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems for<brk/> Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panels
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM E3090/E3090M-18 - Standard Test Methods for Strength Properties of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM E580/E580M-17 - Standard Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas Subject to Earthquake Ground Motions
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2017
• Refers: ASTM E3090/E3090M-17 - Standard Test Methods for Strength Properties of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2017
• Refers: ASTM E580/E580M-16 - Standard Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas Subject to Earthquake Ground Motions
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2016
• Refers: ASTM E631-15 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2015
• Refers: ASTM E631-14 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2014
• Refers: ASTM E580/E580M-14 - Standard Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas Subject to Earthquake Ground Motions
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2014
• Refers: ASTM C635/C635M-13a - Standard Specification for the Manufacture, Performance, and Testing of Metal Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panel Ceilings
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2013
• Refers: ASTM C635/C635M-13 - Standard Specification for the Manufacture, Performance, and Testing of Metal Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panel Ceilings
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM C636/C636M-13 - Standard Practice for Installation of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems for<brk/> Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panels
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2013
• Refers: ASTM C635/C635M-12 - Standard Specification for the Manufacture, Performance, and Testing of Metal Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panel Ceilings
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2012
• Refers: ASTM E580/E580M-11be1 - Standard Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas Subject to Earthquake Ground Motions
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2011
• Refers: ASTM E580/E580M-11b - Standard Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas Subject to Earthquake Ground Motions
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2011

Overview

ASTM E3118/E3118M-22 sets out standardized test methods to evaluate the seismic performance of suspended ceiling systems through full-scale dynamic testing. Developed by ASTM International, this standard addresses those complex or nontraditional suspended ceiling systems that cannot be fully assessed using the simplified engineering calculations found in ASCE/SEI 7 or ASTM E580/E580M. Suspended ceilings are critical nonstructural components in buildings, and their integrity during seismic events is essential for safety and post-event building functionality. These test methods utilize a dynamic seismic simulator, or "shake table," to simulate realistic earthquake conditions and directly observe system responses.

Key Topics

• Full-scale dynamic testing: The use of a shake table to subject actual ceiling system assemblies to simulated seismic events.
• Comparative and Non-Comparative Test Methods:
  • Comparative testing evaluates the performance of an experimental ceiling system by comparing it with a control system under identical conditions.
  • Non-comparative testing determines the performance of a single system without side-by-side comparison.
• Performance criteria and failure modes: Definition of levels of performance, including panel loss and structural disengagement.
• Applicability: Valid for all types of suspended ceiling systems, including both traditional and nontraditional designs.
• Reporting and documentation: Specifies the information and data that must be included in test reports for traceability and compliance.
• Safety, health, and regulatory responsibilities: Reminds users to address appropriate precautions when applying the standard.

Applications

ASTM E3118/E3118M-22 is applicable to building professionals, manufacturers, code officials, and testing laboratories needing to verify or certify the seismic performance of suspended ceiling systems. Its principal practical value includes:

• Product design and certification: Manufacturers can use these seismic test methods to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements or market expectations for seismic safety.
• Performance evaluation of nontraditional systems: Provides a rigorous way to assess innovative or complex ceiling designs not covered by typical prescriptive codes.
• Seismic retrofit and safety upgrades: Facility managers and engineers can use results to guide retrofits or to select ceiling systems for seismic resilience, especially in earthquake-prone regions.
• Post-construction assessment: Confirms the functionality and safety of existing suspended ceiling systems following modifications or repairs.
• Supporting code compliance: Delivers objective data for submittals to building officials or as part of certification programs such as AC156 seismic certification by shake-table testing.

Related Standards

ASTM E3118/E3118M-22 should be used in conjunction with the following referenced standards for comprehensive assessment of suspended ceiling systems:

• ASTM C635/C635M: Specification for manufacture, performance, and testing of metal suspension systems for acoustical tile and lay-in panel ceilings.
• ASTM C636/C636M: Practice for installation of metal ceiling suspension systems.
• ASTM E580/E580M: Practice for installation of ceiling suspension systems subject to seismic ground motions.
• ASTM E3090/E3090M: Test methods for strength properties of metal ceiling suspension systems.
• ASCE/SEI 7: Minimum design loads and associated criteria for buildings and other structures.
• AC156: Seismic certification by shake-table testing for nonstructural components.
• International Building Code (IBC) Chapter 16: Structural requirements for buildings.

These standards, together with ASTM E3118/E3118M-22, form a comprehensive framework for ensuring suspended ceiling systems are safe, resilient, and code-compliant in seismic environments.

Keywords: seismic performance, suspended ceiling systems, full-scale dynamic testing, nonstructural components, shake table, ASTM standards, building safety, code compliance.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E3118/E3118M − 22
Standard Test Methods to
Evaluate Seismic Performance of Suspended Ceiling
Systems by Full-Scale Dynamic Testing
ThisstandardisissuedunderthefixeddesignationE3118/E3118M;thenumberimmediatelyfollowingthedesignationindicatestheyear
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
The response of nonstructural components, such as suspended ceiling systems, can significantly
affect the functionality of a building after an earthquake, even when the structural components are
undamaged.
Traditional suspended ceiling systems, which consist of typical direct hung “T” shaped main
runners and cross tees, are installed in accordance with the prescriptive requirements contained in
Practice E580/E580M, the applicable sections of the International Building Code, and ASCE/SEI 7.
Specification C635/C635M, Test Methods E3090/E3090M, and Practice C636/C636M cover suspen-
sion systems and do not address seismic restraint of suspension systems or the performance of the
ceiling panels. The performance of these traditional ceiling suspension systems is determined by
mechanical testing of the connection’s strengths and the load-carrying capability of the suspension
members. Practice E580/E580M contains specific instructions concerning the placement of hanger
wires, perimeter fastening, and seismic bracing.
Therearenontraditionalsuspendedceilingsystemsthatdonotconsistofthetypicaldirecthung“T”
members. Connection strengths of the structural suspension members are not directly related to the
anticipated performance of the system under earthquake loads. In addition, the ceiling panels or tiles
are not always supported on all four sides of the suspension members.The integrity of ceiling systems
depends on the ability of the ceiling infill panels to remain in place during an earthquake and on the
structural integrity of the suspension system. These test methods provide a means to evaluate the
performance of traditional suspended ceilings, as well as many of these nontraditional type ceiling
systems.
1. Scope 1.3.2 Non-comparative method where a single test is con-
ducted to establish the level of performance of an experimental
1.1 These test methods help evaluate the performance of a
system.
full-scale suspended ceiling system during a seismic event
using a dynamic seismic simulator (shake table).
1.4 These test procedures are valid and useful for all types
1.2 These full-scale procedures are not the only available
of suspended ceiling systems.
procedures for evaluating the seismic performance of ceiling
1.5 The text of this standard uses notes and footnotes that
systems. These tests do not preclude the use of other small-
provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (ex-
scale or full-scale component or system testing.
cluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as
1.3 Thesetestmethodscontaintwoindependentprocedures.
requirements of the standard.
1.3.1 Comparative method where the level of performance
of an experimental system is compared to that of a control test
1.6 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
system under the same set of conditions.
are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the
SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on
system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to
Performance of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.11
ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be
on Horizontal and Vertical Structures/Structural Performance of Completed Struc-
tures. used independently of the other, and values from the two
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2022. Published February 2022. Originally
systems shall not be combined.
approved in 2020. Last previous edition approved in 2021 as E3118/E3118M–21.
DOI: 10.1520/E3118_E3118M-22.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3118/E3118M − 22
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the 3.2.3 experimental system, n—a suspended ceiling system
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the with a level of performance that has not been established.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.2.4 grid component disengagement, n—grid connection
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
failure where main runner splice failure, tee-to-tee connection
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
failure, and/or perimeter clip failure occurs.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
3.2.5 level of performance, n—a boundary between accept-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
able and unacceptable performance of the system.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3.2.6 non-comparative testing, v—testingwhereasingletest
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
is conducted to establish the level of performance of an
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
experimental system.
3.2.6.1 Discussion—Non-comparative testing can be used
2. Referenced Documents
as supporting data for a certificate of conformance.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
3.2.7 panel loss, n—a panel disengaging from the ceiling
C635/C635M Specification for Manufacture, Performance,
plane and falling to the floor.
and Testing of Metal Suspension Systems for Acoustical
3.2.8 required response spectrum (RRS), n—the required
Tile and Lay-in Panel Ceilings
response spectrum generated using the formulas and normal-
C636/C636M Practice for Installation of Metal Ceiling Sus-
ized spectra detailed in AC156.
pension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panels
E580/E580M Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension
3.2.9 test response spectrum (TRS), n—the acceleration
Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas
response spectrum that is developed from the actual time
Subject to Earthquake Ground Motions
history of the motion of the seismic simulator test as measured
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
by reference control accelerometers mounted on the shake
E3090/E3090M Test Methods for Strength Properties of
table at a location near the base of the test frame.
Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems
3.2.10 uniformly distributed weight, Wp, n—the weight of
2.2 Other Standards:
the ceiling system, including the ceiling grid; ceiling panels;
AC156 Seismic Certification by Shake-tableTesting of Non-
light fixtures; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
structural Components
(HVAC) fixtures and ductwork; sprinklers; and piping; etc., or
ASCE/SEI 7 Minimum Design Loads and Associated Crite-
various combinations of these components that are supported
ria for Buildings and Other Structures
by the test frame.
International Building Code Chapter 16, Structural Re-
3.2.11 white noise, n—a broadband random motion used to
quirements
establish the natural frequency and damping ratio of the ceiling
test frame and the attached ceiling system.
3. Terminology
3.2.11.1 Discussion—White noise is one test of resonant
3.1 Definitions—For definitions related to building
frequency search. It is also permitted to use the sine sweep
construction, see Terminology E631.
tests, or equivalent, to the resonance tests.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 comparative testing, v—testing where the level of
4. Summary of Test Methods
performance of an experimental system is compared to that of
4.1 Procedure A – Comparative Test Method—This method
a control system under the same set of conditions.
shall be used to compare the performance of a proposed
3.2.2 control system, n—an existing, code compliant, sus-
experimental system to that of a control system of similar,
pended ceiling system with an established level of perfor-
uniformly distributed weight. The experimental system shall
mance.
include all components of the ceiling system being evaluated.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—A suspended ceiling system con-
The experimental system is attached to a test frame, which is
structed using code compliant components and in accordance
then attached to the seismic simulator, which transmits the
with code compliant installation requirements.
motion of the simulator to the ceiling system.To be acceptable,
the experimental system shall demonstrate equal to or superior
performance to the control system when subjected to the same
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
test protocol.
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
4.2 Procedure B – Non-comparative Test Method—This
the ASTM website.
3 method utilizes a single assembly to establish the level of
Available from ICC Evaluation Service, LLC, 3060 Saturn Street, Suite 100,
performance of a ceiling system. The experimental system
Brea, CA 92821, https://icc-es.org.
Available from American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), 1801 Alexander
shall include all components of the ceiling system being
Bell Dr., Reston, VA 20191, http://www.asce.org.
evaluated. The ceiling suspension system is attached to a test
AvailablefromandaregisteredtrademarkofInternationalCodeCouncil(ICC),
frame, which is then attached to the seismic simulator, which
500 New Jersey Ave., NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, http://
www.iccsafe.org. transmits the motion of the simulator to the ceiling system.
E3118/E3118M − 22
5. Significance and Use increment and its condition recorded. The failure criteria in 9.2
shall be used to assess the ceiling performance.
5.1 The test protocol evaluates those complex suspended
7.7 Conduct a post-test inspection of the ceiling systems
ceiling systems that cannot be assessed by simple engineering
calculations contained in ASCE/SEI 7 and Practice E580/ after each acceleration increment. This is to verify that com-
ponents have not been damaged during shaking and that the
E580M. It is not intended to replace the requirements in
ASCE/SEI 7. Suspended ceiling systems are considered non- system is still functional. The failure criteria in 9.2 shall be
used to assess the ceiling performance.
structural components of buildings.
7.8 Conduct minor or simple repairs to the system and
6. Seismic Simulator (Shake Table)
repeat the failed level before moving to a higher level. Any
system modifications or repairs shall be detailed in the report
6.1 All seismic simulators used for these evaluations shall
be tri-axial. section. Acceptable repairs include reseating of ceiling panels,
reseating of grid members on perimeter molding, or replace-
6.2 Each system shall be tested in accordance with the
ment of an accessory clip. Perimeter clips are not considered
Seismic Certification Test Procedure as prescribed in AC156.
accessory clips and are not to be repaired during a test.
For ceiling systems, z/h =0 and z/h =1.
Vertical Horizontal
Replacement of grid components is not permi
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E3118/E3118M − 21 E3118/E3118M − 22
Standard Test Methods to
Evaluate Seismic Performance of Suspended Ceiling
Systems by Full-Scale Dynamic Testing
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3118/E3118M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
The response of nonstructural components, such as suspended ceiling systems, can significantly
affect the functionality of a building after an earthquake, even when the structural components are
undamaged.
Traditional suspended ceiling systems, which consist of typical direct hung “T” shaped main
runners and cross tees, are installed in accordance with the prescriptive requirements contained in
Practice E580/E580M, the applicable sections of the International Building Code, and ASCE/SEI 7.
Specification C635/C635M, Test MethodMethods E3090/E3090M, and Practice C636/C636M cover
suspension systems and do not address seismic restraint of suspension systems or the performance of
the ceiling panels. The performance of these traditional ceiling suspension systems is determined by
mechanical testing of the connection’s strengths and the load-carrying capability of the suspension
members. Practice E580/E580M contains specific instructions concerning the placement of hanger
wires, perimeter fastening, and seismic bracing.
There are nontraditional suspended ceiling systems that do not consist of the typical direct hung “T”
members. Connection strengths of the structural suspension members are not directly related to the
anticipated performance of the system under earthquake loads. In addition, the ceiling panels or tiles
are not always supported on all four sides of the suspension members. The integrity of ceiling systems
depends on the ability of the ceiling infill panels to remain in place during an earthquake and on the
structural integrity of the suspension system. These test methods provide a means to evaluate the
performance of traditional suspended ceilings, as well as many of these nontraditional type ceiling
systems.
1. Scope
1.1 These test methods help evaluate the performance of a full-scale suspended ceiling system during a seismic event using a
dynamic seismic simulator (shake table).
1.2 These full-scale procedures are not the only available procedures for evaluating the seismic performance of ceiling systems.
These tests do not preclude the use of other small-scale or full-scale component or system testing.
1.3 These test methods contain two independent procedures.
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.11 on
Horizontal and Vertical Structures/Structural Performance of Completed Structures.
Current edition approved March 1, 2021Jan. 1, 2022. Published March 2021February 2022. Originally approved in 2020. Last previous edition approved in 20202021 as
E3118/E3118M–20.–21. DOI: 10.1520/E3118_E3118M-21.10.1520/E3118_E3118M-22.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3118/E3118M − 22
1.3.1 Comparative method where the level of performance of an experimental system is compared to that of a control test system
under the same set of conditions.
1.3.2 Non-comparative method where a single test is conducted to establish the level of performance of an experimental system.
1.4 These test procedures are valid and useful for all types of suspended ceiling systems.
1.5 The text of this standard uses notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding
those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.
1.6 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units
are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance
with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.
E3118/E3118M − 22
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C635/C635M Specification for Manufacture, Performance, and Testing of Metal Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and
Lay-in Panel Ceilings
C636/C636M Practice for Installation of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panels
E580/E580M Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas Subject to
Earthquake Ground Motions
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
E3090/E3090M Test Methods for Strength Properties of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems
2.2 Other Standards:
AC156 Seismic Certification by Shake-table Testing of Nonstructural Components
ASCE/SEI 7 Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures
International Building Code Chapter 16, Structural Requirements
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions related to building construction, see Terminology E631.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 comparative testing, n—v—testing where the level of performance of an experimental system is compared to that of a control
system under the same set of conditions.
3.2.2 control system—system, n—an existing, code compliant, suspended ceiling system with an established level of performance.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—
A suspended ceiling system constructed using code compliant components and in accordance with code compliant installation
requirements.
3.2.3 experimental system—system, n—a suspended ceiling system with a level of performance that has not been established.
3.2.4 grid component disengagement, n—grid connection failure where main runner splice failure, tee-to-tee connection failure,
and/or perimeter clip failure occurs.
3.2.5 level of performance—performance, n—a boundary between acceptable and unacceptable performance of the system.
3.2.6 non-comparative testing—testing, v—testing where a single test is conducted to establish the level of performance of an
experimental system.
3.2.6.1 Discussion—
Non-comparative testing can be used as supporting data for a certificate of conformance.
3.2.7 panel loss, n—a panel disengaging from the ceiling plane and falling to the floor.
3.2.8 required response spectrum (RRS)—(RRS), n—the required response spectrum generated using the formulas and normalized
spectra detailed in AC156.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from ICC Evaluation Service, LLC, 3060 Saturn Street, Suite 100, Brea, CA 92821, https://icc-es.org.
Available from American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), 1801 Alexander Bell Dr., Reston, VA 20191, http://www.asce.org.
Available from and a registered trademark of International Code Council (ICC), 500 New Jersey Ave., NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, http://www.iccsafe.org.
E3118/E3118M − 22
3.2.9 test response spectrum (TRS)—(TRS), n—the acceleration response spectrum that is developed from the actual time history
of the motion of the seismic simulator test as measured by reference control accelerometers mounted on the shake table at a
location near the base of the test frame.
3.2.10 uniformly distributed weight, Wp—Wp, n—the weight of the ceiling system, including the ceiling grid; ceiling panels; light
fixtures; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) fixtures and ductwork; sprinklers; and piping; etc., or various
combinations of these components that are supported by the test frame.
3.2.11 white noise—noise, n—a broadband random motion used to establish the natural frequency and damping ratio of the ceiling
test frame and the attached ceiling system.
3.2.11.1 Discussion—
White noise is one test of resonant frequency search. It is also permitted to use the sine sweep tests, or equivalent, to the resonance
tests.
4. Summary of Test Methods
4.1 Procedure A – Comparative Test Method—This method shall be used to compare the performance of a proposed experimental
system to that of a control system of similar, uniformly distributed weight. The experimental system shall include all components
of the ceiling system being evaluated. The experimental system is attached to a test frame, which is then attached to the seismic
simulator, which transmits the motion of the simulator to the ceiling system. To be acceptable, the experimental system shall
demonstrate equal to or superior performance to the control system when subjected to the same test protocol.
4.2 Procedure B – Non-comparative Test Method—This method utilizes a single assembly to establish the level of performance
of a ceiling system. The experimental system shall include all components of the ceiling system being evaluated. The ceiling
suspension system is attached to a test frame, which is then attached to the seismic simulator, which transmits the motion of the
simulator to the ceiling system.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 The test protocol evaluates those complex suspended ceiling systems that cannot be assessed by simple engineering
calculations contained in ASCE/SEI 7 and Practice E580/E580M. It is not intended to replace the requirements in ASCE/SEI 7.
Suspended ceiling systems are considered nonstructural components of buildings.
6. Seismic Simulator (Shake Table)
6.1 All seismic simulators used for these evaluations shall be tri-axial.
6.2 Each system shall be tested in accordance with the Seismic Certification Test Procedure as prescribed in AC156. For ceiling
systems, z/h =0 and z/h =1.
Vertical Horizontal
2 2
6.3 The test frame for the ceiling system shall have a minimum area of 256 ft [24 m ] with the aspect ratio of the length to the
width no greater than 4:1. The frame shall also be of sufficient size to adequately subject all lateral force resisting mechanisms to
the simulator movements.
PROCEDURE A
7. Comparative Test Method
7.1 Construct a control system on the shake table to act as a test for the comparison. The control system shall be installed in
accordance with Section 13.5.6 of ASCE/SEI 7.
NOTE 1—It is permissible that this control system has been previously tested and documented.
7.2 Load the control system to the desired uniformly distributed weight.
E3118/E3118M − 22
7.3 Conduct a pre-test inspection to verify that all components are properly installed as near as possible to actual construction
practices prior to any testing.
7.4 Conduct axis resonant frequency search tests using a low level low-level amplitude single-axis sinusoidal sweep along each
orthogonal axis of the simulation platform. A low-level wh
...