Investigation and experiment of a damper based on shape memory alloy (SMA)

A damper device based on shape memory alloy (SMA) wires is developed for vibration control implementation of large bridges as well as high-rise buildings. The proposed damper was characterized by good energy dissipation mechanism and can be installed in the diagonal positions of the frame storey as well as below the main span of bridge decks. As a case study, two such SMA dampers were installed in a cable-stayed bridge model to verify the effectiveness of the damper devices. The experimental results illustrate that the developed SMA dampers are very effective to reduce structural response and have great potential for use as efficient energy dissipation devices.