Thechnical informations

Viscoelastic dampers

Effective seismic design of structures is indeed a critical aspect that structural engineers need to consider. The traditional design methods often result in notable structural damage in the lateral resistance system of the structure due to the input energy of an earthquake. However, the use of additional viscoelastic dampers in the structure can help dissipate a significant portion of the earthquake input energy, thereby limiting the deformation of the structural members and reducing the damage caused to them.

It’s worth noting that the viscoelastic dampers produced by LBK, Ltd. are composed of a unique copolymer material that exhibits exceptionally high damping. This achievement is the culmination of years of dedicated study and research conducted by the company’s team of experts. As a result, their viscoelastic dampers have become an excellent choice for the effective seismic design of structures.

Advantages of LBK viscoelastic dampers

1. Effective performance and maximized cost-efficiency for retrofitting purposes: LBK closely monitors and controls the quality and accuracy of the dampers produced. This is achieved through routine tests, which ensure that the dampers meet the desired technical specifications in practice. This provides the building owner with confidence in the outcome of their investment and retrofitting efforts. The importance of this process is underscored when considering that many common retrofitting methods lack objective evaluation of the behavior of reinforced structural members in the laboratory. This can lead to uncertainty in the level of confidence in the project’s outcome, despite the costs incurred. Therefore, LBK’s rigorous testing and quality control measures are crucial in ensuring the effectiveness and reliability of the retrofitting process.
2. Easy installation process with minimal destruction: The installation involves installing dampers at each floor of the building, which is relatively simple due to the small dimensions of the dampers. This results in a limited amount of demolition operations and fewer necessary operations to install the dampers. Additionally, the seismic dampers can be exposed or built-in, depending on the employer’s preference.

• The use of visco-elastic shock absorbers can significantly reduce story drift and stress demands on structural members and the building foundation. Many traditional retrofit methods require extensive demolition operations, which can be both time-consuming and costly. However, the use of viscoelastic dampers can greatly reduce the amount of work required on these parts, making the retrofitting process more efficient and cost-effective. This approach not only saves time but also reduces the overall cost of the retrofitting process.

1. During retrofitting, dampers are installed only in specific areas of a building, eliminating the need for a complete shutdown. This is a significant benefit as the closure or ‘sleep’ period during retrofitting can pose a major concern for many employers. The use of viscoelastic dampers, as opposed to traditional methods, largely addresses this issue. It allows the building to stay operational during the retrofitting process, thereby minimizing disruptions and ensuring a safer environment for occupants.
2. Viscoelastic seismic dampers are unique in that they are able to return to their pre-deformation state using their elasticity, unlike other types of additional dampers such as viscous dampers or metal and friction dampers. This means that there are no permanent or lasting deformations in the building structure after an earthquake. This is a significant advantage that can help to ensure the long-term safety and stability of the building.
3. Viscoelastic seismic dampers are unique in their ability to respond to even the slightest vibrations, unlike metal and friction dampers which may not activate during minor building vibrations. This makes viscoelastic seismic dampers suitable for regular and daily use, even in buildings experiencing light vibrations. In fact, one of the most common applications of viscoelastic dampers is to enhance the damping of tall buildings and reduce their wind-induced vibrations. This can contribute to the comfort and safety of occupants while minimizing potential damage to the building over time.

• A key benefit of installing LBK dampers during retrofitting is their durability and longevity. Once installed, dampers are designed to last for the building’s lifetime, often outliving the building itself. This means that the retrofitting process is not just a temporary fix, but a long-term investment in the building’s safety and stability, providing benefits that can be appreciated for many years to come.

If you are interested in designing and ordering viscoelastic dampers, or would like to learn more about the product, please contact us. Our team will work with you to understand your specific project requirements and provide you with a customized solution that meets your needs.

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We look forward to hearing from you and helping you with your retrofitting needs.