Self-Centering Energy-Dissipative Restrainers Incorporating SMA Ring Springs
Publication: Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 149, Issue 5
Abstract
This study presents a novel type of self-centering energy-dissipative restrainers [i.e., SMA ring springs (SMARS) restrainer] incorporating shape memory alloy (SMA) ring springs as the core elements. Compared with conventional restraining solutions such as steel cables, the proposed device has unique advantages such as protective self-locking mechanism, large load resistance and energy dissipation, adjustable initial stiffness/yield strength, ease of installation, and no risk of anchorage premature failure. The study commences with a detailed introduction of the working mechanism of the SMARS restrainer, followed by a comprehensive experimental verification of the concept. Numerical studies are subsequently carried out to further interpret the test results and to reveal the influence of some important parameters. Stable flag-shaped hysteretic curves of both individual SMA ring spring and SMARS restrainer at room temperature were exhibited. An optional preload can be applied, leading to a yieldlike behavior. The preload could also promote large initial stiffness, better self-centering capability, and enhanced energy dissipation. The recovery rate (recovered-to-peak deformation ratio) and equivalent viscous damping ratio of the restrainer specimen with no preload were 90% and 3.6%–5.9%, respectively, and those of the specimen with preload increase to 98% and 5.7%–7.4%, respectively. The numerical study further confirms that the behavior of the SMARS restrainer is greatly affected by the friction condition and the preload applied to the SMA ring springs. Some preliminary design recommendations are subsequent provided. Potential practical applications, including isolation bearings, bridge restrainers, rocking columns/shear walls, and braces, are finally discussed.
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Data Availability Statement
All data and models that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
The financial supports from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) with Grant Nos. 52078359, 51820105013, 51778459, and 51978513 are gratefully acknowledged. Support for this study was also provided by the Shanghai Rising-Star Program (20QA1409400) and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities.
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Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 149 • Issue 5 • May 2023
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© 2023 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Apr 21, 2022
Accepted: Jan 3, 2023
Published online: Feb 28, 2023
Published in print: May 1, 2023
Discussion open until: Jul 28, 2023
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