Recently, Taiwan experienced a strong earthquake, causing significant damage to buildings. However, one skyscraper, Taipei 101, remained relatively unscathed even during a 7.4 magnitude earthquake. The innovative design of this building, which stands tall despite earthquakes, is attributed to its strength. A key feature of this design is a large steel pendulum installed within the structure.
Situated between the 87th and 92nd floors, at a height of thousands of feet above the ground, this tuned mass damper (TMD) weighs approximately 660 metric tons. According to reports, the TMD helps absorb the shock of earthquakes or high winds. It counteracts the movement of the building during seismic events or strong winds, reducing their impact.
Tuned mass dampers, also known as wind dumping balls, are commonly installed in tall buildings to mitigate the effects of strong winds or earthquakes. These devices not only enhance the structural resilience of buildings but also make it easier to inhabit high-rise structures. In many buildings, they are discreetly placed to maintain aesthetics, but in Taipei 101, the damper adds to the building’s beauty while serving its functional purpose. This allows visitors to easily understand the system’s functionality.
How Does it Work?
During an earthquake or strong winds, the spherical damper starts swaying back and forth, absorbing the energy of the forces. This movement significantly reduces the impact of rapid winds or seismic events. Engineers claim that the damper can reduce building movement by up to forty percent, thereby minimizing discomfort for occupants. Closed-circuit cameras have also captured the minimal movement within Taipei’s tall buildings during earthquakes compared to nearby structures experiencing significant shaking.
The installation of a tuned mass damper in Taipei 101 exemplifies innovative engineering techniques that enhance both the safety and aesthetics of tall buildings in earthquake-prone areas.