Viscous damper development and future trends

Viscous dampers can protect structures against wind excitation, blast and earthquakes. Viscous damper technology originated with military and aerospace applications. Approximately 10 years ago it was found that the same fluid viscous dampers that protect missiles against nuclear attack and guard submarines against near-miss underwater explosions could also protect buildings, bridges and other structures from destructive shock and vibration. This paper describes fluid damper technology, analysis considerations, installation methods and development work in progress. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.