A Comparative Study of Viscous and Friction Dampers for Seismic Protection of Buildings

Abstract

Earthquakes have long been a significant cause of destruction, leading to immense damage to buildings and loss of life. Over the years, engineers have developed various protective measures, such as viscous and friction dampers, to mitigate earthquake-induced damage. Viscous dampers work by dissipating seismic forces through fluid motion, while friction dampers convert kinetic energy into heat via friction. Both devices have been incorporated into building structures to absorb earthquake energy, allowing structures to remain intact or require minimal repairs. This paper compares the performance of viscous and friction dampers when subjected to different seismic ground motions. A two-story building model equipped with both dampers is analyzed using computer software, with the results showing the relative effectiveness of each system. Additionally, the ease of installation and maintenance of these devices is evaluated.