For flexible structures, energy dissipation products are installed in the structural frame and wall and will reduce interstory drift cause by earthquakes. Dampers are introduced into structures in order to absorb much of the kinetic energy created by wind, mild tremors as well as major seismic events. Energy Dissipation vs. Without Energy Dissipation With Energy Dissipation Inter-story drift is reduced by a factor of approximately two with the installation of energy dissipators. The deformation pattern of an isolated structure during an earthquake.
Movement takes place at the level of the isolators.
The deformation pattern of a conventional structure during an earthquake. Accelerations of the ground are amplified on the higher floors and the loose contents are damaged. The rubber layers allow the isolator to easily displace sideways, reducing the earthquake loads felt by the building and its occupants. They also act as a spring, ensuring that the structure returns to its original position after the shaking has stopped. Thick steel plates are bonded to the top and bottom surfaces to allow the isolator to be solidly bolted to the structure above and to the foundation below.