Analytical and numerical investigation of the cyclic behavior of angled U-shape damper

Yielding dampers exhibit varying cyclic behavior based on their geometry. These dampers not only increase the energy dissipation of the structure but also increase the strength and stiffness of the structure. In this study, parametric investigations were carried out to explore the impact of angled U-shape damper (AUSD) dimensions on its cyclic behavior. Initially, the numerical model was calibrated using the experimental specimen. Subsequently, analytical equations were presented to calculate the yield strength and elastic stiffness, which agreed with the experimental results. The outcomes of the parametric studies encompassed ultimate strength, effective stiffness, energy dissipation, and equivalent viscous damper ratio (EVDR). These output parameters were compared with similar dampers. Also, the magnitude of the effect of damper dimensions on the results was investigated. The results of parametric studies showed that the yield strength is independent of the damper width. The length and thickness of the damper have the greatest effect on the elastic stiffness. Reducing length and width resulted in increased energy dissipation, effective stiffness, and ultimate strength. Damper width had a more significant effect on EVDR than its length. On average, every 5 mm increase in damper thickness resulted in a 3.6 times increase in energy dissipation, 3 times the effective stiffness, and 3 times the ultimate strength of the model. Every 15 mm reduction in damper width and length increased energy dissipation by 14% and 24%, respectively.