Abstract
Energy dissipation devices can be considered as an alternative for the seismic performance enhancement of existing structures based on the strengthened seismic design code. In this study, seismic response mitigation effects of friction dampers are investigated through the shaking table test of a full scale 3 story building structure. Frist, the bilinear force-displacement relationship of a structure-brace-friction damper system and the effect of brace-friction damper on the increase of frequency and damping ratio are identified. Second, frequency, displacement, and torque dependent characteristics of the friction damper are investigated by using harmonic load excitation tests. Finally, the shaking table tests are performed for a full scale 3 story steel frame. System identification results using random signal excitation indicated that brace-friction damper increased structural damping ratio and frequency, and El Centro earthquake test showed that brace-friction damper reduced the peak displacement and acceleration significantly. In particular, it was observed that the damping effect due to friction damper becomed obvious when the structure was excited by more intensive load causing frequent slippage of the friction dampers.