Solid damping
a new generation of structural damping solutions
why solid damping
Solid dampers were the first damping system used to solve structural vibration problems, including mitigation of wind and earthquake, floor and stair vibrations amongst other types of dynamic loads. When the solid damping material is deformed, there is an instantaneous stiffness and damping restoring force. Because solid Viscoelastic damping material is connected directly to the vibrating structure it is activated instantaneously, adding damping and stiffness for all vibration amplitudes and types, from frequent wind storms that can cause occupant discomfort through maximum credible earthquakes that can damage building structures.
Solid dampers are an ideal technology for seismic and wind sensitive projects as they add both stiffness and damping to the building structure. In projects numerous connection details can be implemented depending on the existing structural deficiencies and structural configuration including, but not limited to wall dampers, brace dampers, coupling beam dampers, etc. - solid dampers reduce vibrations, drifts, forces and minimize structural and non-structural damage for various types of loadings.
Reduced Vibration: Solid damping technology reduce vibrations in buildings and other structures caused by various sources, such as traffic, equipment, wind and earthquakes, to enhance the comfort and productivity of building occupants, as well as protect the building and its contents from damage and wear.
Improved Safety: Solid damping technology absorbs and dissipates energy from vibrations and shockwaves to improve the safety of buildings during natural disasters, such as earthquakes and high winds, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the building's structural components, and help protect the lives of the building occupants.
Enhanced Durability: Solid damping technology reduce the stress and fatigue caused by vibration and other factors that would otherwise lead to premature wear and tear. By reducing these stress and fatigue levels, solid damping technology can extend the lifespan of the building's components, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
Cost Effectiveness: While there is initial cost of installing solid damping technology, the long-term cost savings associated with increased safety, reduced maintenance, and improved energy efficiency can make it a cost-effective solution over the life of the structure.
Overall, solid damping technology can provide many benefits for structural applications, including reduced vibration, improved safety, enhanced durability, and cost-effectiveness. These advantages make solid damping an attractive option for architects, builders, and building owners who are looking to improve the performance, safety, and sustainability of their buildings. Reach out to us to learn more!
HOW IT WORKS
Solid dampers work by dissipating energy from structural vibrations through the use of a viscoelastic material (VEM), which generates a velocity-dependent (viscous) force that provides supplemental viscous damping to the system and a displacement-dependent (elastic) restoring force that ensures a coupling effect between the interconnected elements during the dynamic response.
Solid dampers typically consist of metal plates or cylinders that is bounded by a viscoelastic material, such as a polymer or rubber. The damper is attached to the structure and is designed to move in response to vibrations, absorbing and dissipating energy in the process.
When the structure vibrates, the viscoelastic material in the solid damper deforms and absorbs the kinetic energy of the vibration. As the material deforms, it generates internal friction, converting the kinetic energy into heat, which is dissipated into the surrounding environment. As a result, the amplitude of the vibration is reduced, and the structure experiences less stress and strain.
Kinetica’s solid dampers can be designed and configured to have a specific stiffness and damping capacity to match the characteristics of the structure and the expected vibrational loads. By selecting the appropriate size, material, and placement of the damper, Kinetica’s solid dampers can effectively mitigate the effects of vibrations on the structure, improving its safety and durability - achieving an effective and cost-efficient way to reduce the impact of vibrations on structures in a variety of applications, including buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure.
configurable Dynamic Performances
The Kinetica’s scalable and customizable solid damping polymers provide configurable hysteretic responses to our solid damping devices, from the typical “cat eye” hysteresis to more elastoplastic hysteretic responses - offering design freedom for any structural application.
ROBUST QUALITY CONTROL AND QUALITY ASSURANCE
A robust Quality Control and Quality Assurance program is implemented for all projects worldwide. A range of damping and control technologies are protecting many of the most important buildings in the world against extreme earthquakes.
