Experimental and analytical simulation of wind response for a full-scale VE-damped steel frame

This paper presents findings of the first real-time and full-scale tests of a bottom three-story portion of a ten-story steel frame with viscoelastic (VE-) dampers subjected to simulated wind-induced forces. The experimental method employed is unique in the application of large dynamic and static lo ads through five actuators, realistically sized VE-dampers, frame members, and connections, and 200 channels to monitor the structural response in det ail. The testing methodology permitted assessment of both global and local member response for a VE-damped structure not available through conventiona l wind tunnel testing methods. Results show the complex interaction between VE-dampers and frame members. VE-dampers increased the damping ratio from 2% for the bare frame to 10% and resulted in significant reduction in the m ean square displacement response, building accelerations, stress range in f rame members and connections, and number of stress cycles. (C) 1998 Elsevie r Science Ltd. All rights reserved.