Dampers: Types And Mechanism | Rajesh Ambwani IIT

 A damper system in any construction plays an important part because it protects the structural integrity of a building. Dampers can control structural damage and it helps in protecting the residents from any injury because they can decrease the deformation of the structure and can absorb seismic energy. There are various types of dampers that help in preventing harmful deflection and forces.

 

1.   Viscoelastic Dampers

The Viscoelastic dampers stretch an elastomer combined with metal parts. These dampers cause the mechanical energy to disappear by transforming it into heat. These are very popular and have been successfully incorporated in many tall buildings to subdue the effects of wind and earthquake.

2.   Viscous Dampers

Rajesh Ambwani, our expert, describes the Viscous damper as one of the best dampers for high-rise buildings, especially in seismic areas. These dampers absorb seismic energy with the help of silicon-based fluid passing through the piston-cylindrical arrangement. These can work well in the ambient temperature between 40°C to 70°C. Just like the Viscoelastic dampers, these too suppress the effects of winds and earthquakes.

3.   Friction Dampers

In a typical structure of friction dampers, there are numerous metal plates that slide against each other in the opposite direction. Between these are shims of friction pad material that separates the metal plates. By the means of friction between the surfaces that rub against each other, these dampers dissipate the seismic energy. Usually, the surface material used is steel or iron.

4.   Tuned Mass Dampers

Tuned mass dampers, also known as TMD are the vibration absorbers. This is a device that is mounted into a specific location in the structure from where it can reduce the magnitude of the vibration. It calms down the vibration level to an acceptable and bearable level. These dampers are very beneficial when you want protection from discomfort or want to prevent damage and structural failure. Other than high-rise buildings, these dampers are also used in automobiles and power transmission.

5.   Yielding Dampers

Yielding dampers are devices manufactured from easily yielded alloy material or metal. These are also known as metallic yielding energy dissipation devices, passive energy dissipation devices. These are the most economic dampers of all and very effective at the same time.

6.   Magnetic Dampers

Magnetic dampers are ideal for absorbing dynamic vibrations. These dampers constitute two racks, two pinions, one copper disk and rare earth magnets. They are very economic and affordable and are not at all dependent on the temperature.

When constructing a building, especially a skyscraper, these dampers are very imperative and are not to be taken lightly or for granted. Any seismic activity under the earth can hamper the structure of the building, so says Rajesh Ambwani IIT. So, if you are getting a tall building constructed or want to know about the safety features of a tall building, do enquire about the types of dampers being used in the structure.