5.14.2. Dampers and Energy Dissipating Devices

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the primary purpose of dampers in buildings?

   Hint

   Think about what happens during strong vibrations.

2. 2.

   Name one type of damper discussing its functionality.

   Hint

   What type of damper uses a liquid?

3. 3.

   What is the main goal of using dampers in seismic design?

   • To improve aesthetic appeal
   • To absorb and dissipate seismic energy
   • To increase building weight

   Hint

   Consider what happens during an earthquake.

4. 4.

   True or False: SDOF models are complex representations of structural behavior during seismic events.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the purpose of an SDOF model.

5. 5.

   Discuss the implications of improperly designed dampers in a tall building during an earthquake. What could go wrong?

   Hint

   Consider what role dampers serve during an earthquake.

6. 6.

   Calculate the expected energy dissipation of a viscous damper with a damping coefficient of 500 Ns/m for a lateral displacement of 0.1 m during seismic activity.

   Hint

   What formula enables you to calculate energy using damping coefficient and displacement?