A Review of the State of Practice for Fluid Viscous Damper Applications in North America and New Zealand

Abstract

The use of Fluid Viscous Dampers (FVDs) for retrofit and new construction applications is growing around the world. FVDs provide an effective way to reduce seismic demands on structures. In retrofit applications, this allows existing structures to meet increased demands from updated codes or to reduce drifts to accommodate structural system limitations. In new structures, FVDs can be used to decrease cost and environmental impact by reducing elements sizes in the superstructure and foundation. FVDs also reduce both drift and floor accelerations, helping structures to meet resiliency goals and reduce post-earthquake damage in both structural and non-structural elements.

This paper explores the state of practice for FVD applications in North America and New Zealand. The following cases for FVD application are examined: 1) Retrofit applications in North America for Pre-Northridge Steel Moment Frames and Non-ductile Concrete Moment Frames, 2) Retrofit applications in New Zealand for hollow-core pre-cast concrete slab buildings, 3) New steel moment frame applications, and 4) Applications of base isolation with supplemental damping with FVDs.

This paper will explore best practices collected through involvement with hundreds of damper projects worldwide. Lessons learned through the entire damper design process, from schematic level decisions through construction implementation, will be explored for both steel and concrete buildings. The purpose of this paper is to broaden readers’ understanding of FVD applications in the North American and New Zealand markets with the aim of reducing barriers and to demonstrate the ease of design and implementation of damped solutions.