Implementation and testing of passive control devices based on shape memory alloys

TLDR

They are special braces for framed structures and isolation devices for buildings and bridges. The paper outlines the working mechanisms of SMA‑based devices. Experimental tests are extensively described to verify the properties. Two families of passive seismic control devices exploiting SMA kernel components have been implemented and tested, demonstrating extreme versatility, a wide range of cyclic behavior, extraordinary fatigue resistance, and long‑term durability. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract

SUMMARY Two families of passive seismic control devices exploiting the peculiar properties of shape memory alloy (SMA) kernel components have been implemented and tested within the MANSIDE project (Memory Alloys for New Seismic Isolation and Energy Dissipation Devices). They are special braces for framed structures and isolation devices for buildings and bridges. Their most important feature is their extreme versatility, i.e. the possibility to obtain a wide range of cyclic behaviour * from supplemental and fully re-centring to highly dissipating * by simply varying the number and/or the characteristics of the SMA components. Other remarkable properties are their extraordinary fatigue resistance under large strain cycles and their great durability and reliability in the long run. In this paper, the working mechanisms of the SMA based devices are outlined and the experimental tests carried out to verify the above-mentioned properties are extensively described. Copyright ( 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.