Are Container Houses Earthquake-Resistant?
Container houses have a certain degree of earthquake resistance, but the seismic performance varies among different types and structures of container houses.
Some container houses that have undergone professional design and reinforcement have relatively good seismic performance. For example, the packing-box units of Suzhou Zhongnan Steel Structure Co., Ltd. adopt a full steel structure frame. The measured seismic intensity reaches magnitude 8, fully complying with the requirements of the GB50011 - 2010 (2016 edition) Code for Seismic Design of Buildings. In earthquake simulation tests, there is no deformation at the frame connections, and the wall color steel plates fit tightly, indicating strong structural stability and the ability to effectively resist earthquake damage.
Some container houses with other structures or those that have not been adequately reinforced have relatively weak seismic performance. The packing-box units of CIMC Modular Building Investment Co., Ltd. use a steel structure frame. The measured seismic intensity is magnitude 7.5. In coastal typhoon simulation tests, slight displacements occur at the frame corner connections, requiring subsequent installation of reinforcement components. The packing-box units of Yazhi Integrated Housing Co., Ltd. adopt a semi-steel and semi-aluminum hybrid structure. The measured seismic intensity is magnitude 7. In the strong wind environment of the Gobi Desert, local loosening of the wall color steel plates occurs. The packing-box units of Hangzhou Xiaoya Integrated Housing Co., Ltd. use a lightweight steel structure. The measured seismic intensity is magnitude 7. In earthquake simulation tests, the pre-installed office furniture inside shows significant displacement, requiring additional installation of fixed brackets.
When using container houses in extreme environments, it is essential to strictly follow the installation specifications provided by the manufacturer. Unauthorized modification of the frame structure or addition of extra loads is strictly prohibited, as it may lead to structural instability and other safety accidents. Moreover, all test data are only for standard configuration products, and customized modifications require re-verification of performance.
