Analytical evaluation of the German September 3, 1978 earthquake

The earthquake in Germany (Albstadt) on September 3, 1978 had a local network magnitude of 5.7 and an intensity of 7.5 to 8 (MSK). Damage to mechanical and electrical equipment has not been observed. Three representative vessels have been analysed. It is shown that the range of the seismic parameters is not enough to interpret the phenomenon: high intensity but no damage to mechanical components. Rather the procedure of seismic analysis must have a wide margin of safety. (orig.)