Journal of Steel & Structure

Journal of Steel & Structure

Evaluation of the Application of Elliptical Roller Damper in Special Steel Moment Frame

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Civil Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Civil Engineering, K.N.Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
3 Foolad Machine
Abstract
This research evaluates the seismic performance of steel moment frames equipped with the elliptical roller damper. The prominent feature of this damper is its dual capability of simultaneously carrying permanent gravity loads and dissipating seismic energy, making it an efficient seismic isolator. This device enhances structural performance by intelligently integrating a roller mechanism to reduce friction with the yielding behavior of elliptical dampers for effective energy dissipation. To assess its effectiveness, the damper was implemented at the column bases of 2D models of 2, 4, and 6-story frames in the SAP2000 software subjected to three earthquake records (Loma Prieta, Northridge and Rudbar), and their seismic parameters were analyzed. The results indicated a significant improvement in the structures' performance; the addition of the damper increased the natural period of the structure, which in turn resulted in a considerable reduction in key parameters such as base shear, peak roof acceleration, and first-story drift. Notably, the reduction in base shear and drift approached a constant, lower value in taller frames. The base shear coefficient in the two, four, and six-story frames was reduced to less than 0.4, 0.2, and 0.11, respectively, and the first story drift ratio in the two, four, and six-story frames was reduced to less than 1, 0.3, and 0.2 percent, respectively. These findings confirm the high efficiency of the elliptical roller damper as an effective solution for seismic isolation and enhancing structural safety.
Keywords
Subjects

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  • Receive Date 27 October 2025
  • Revise Date 11 November 2025
  • Accept Date 20 November 2025
  • First Publish Date 20 November 2025
  • Publish Date 22 June 2025