NEHRP Clearinghouse

Title
Seismic Response of a 2/5 Scale Steel Structure with Added Viscoelastic Dampers.
File
PB92110816.pdf
Author(s)
Chang, K. C.; Soong, T. T.; Oh, S. T.; Lai, M. L.
Source
National Science Foundation, Washington, DC., May 17, 1991, 80 p.
Identifying Number(s)
NCEER-91-0012
Abstract
Seismic response characteristics of a 2/5 scale steel frame structure with added viscoelastic dampers are studied experimentally. The major emphasis is placed on the ambient temperature effect. While seismic response of a structure can be significantly improved with added dampers, their degree of effectiveness depends on the surrounding temperature within which they operate. Results also show that, even at very high temperatures, the viscoelastically damped structure can still achieve a significant reduction of structural response as compared to the case with no dampers added. The design of viscoelastic dampers, taking into account the ambient temperature, is addressed. Empirical equations are established based on regression analysis using data obtained from component tests of the dampers. These equations can satisfactorily estimate the dynamic properties of dampers under various ambient temperatures, excitation frequencies and deformations. Numerical simulations on equivalent structural damping and structural response under various ambient temperatures are also carried out. It is demonstrated that the dynamic behavior of structures with added viscoelastic dampers can be satisfactorily predicted by existing analytical tools.
Keywords
; Dynamic loads; Deformation; Seismic waves; Steel structures; Temperature; Loads (Forces); Mathematical models; Viscoelasticity; Vibration damping; Earthquake resistant structures; Structural vibration; Seismic effects; Model tests; Dynamic response; Ground motion; Earthquake engineering; Mechanical properties; Dynamic structural analysis