Results from a Full-Scale Study on the Condition Assessment of Pendulum Tuned Mass Dampers

Abstract

AbstractPendulum tuned mass dampers (PTMDs) are one of the most popular vibration control devices in use today for flexible towers, bridges, and buildings. Their most attractive feature is the design simplicity; the natural period can be controlled simply by adjusting the suspended length and viscous dampers can be easily integrated into the design. While this simplicity has resulted in their widespread adoption, the installed performance of PTMDs has not been investigated in much detail. This paper presents a methodology for conducting condition assessment of in-service PTMDs. Results from a full-scale study of a PTMD-equipped structure is used as a test bed to demonstrate the approach. The condition of an in-service PTMD is assessed using two criteria: the frequency and damping tuning ratios, and equivalent damping provided by the PTMD. These criteria are estimated while the PTMD is in service, without arresting the PTMD motion, using an extended Kalman filter. Practical considerations typical in full-s...