Assessing the efficacy of tuned mass dampers in mitigating wind-induced vibrations of tall structures

The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of tuned mass dampers (TMDs) in mitigating wind-induced vibrations in tall structures, with a primary focus on enhancing occupant comfort and safety. Employing the ETABS program, two 120-m-tall structures are analyzed: a symmetrical, pyramidal-shaped one and another with a simple, square floor plan, both designed in compliance with Indian Standard (IS) 456:2000. Wind loads and seismic loads for seismic zone III, estimations adhere to Indian Standard (IS) 875 (Part 3):2015 and IS 1893 (Part 1) 2002 respectively. The purpose of this research is to assess the effectiveness of TMDs in mitigating seismic and wind-induced vibrations in tall structures. A rigorous analysis of two tall building structures in Bhubaneswar, India, is compared and the gap in understanding their structural behavior and performance under dynamic loading conditions has been addressed. Interestingly the findings revealed that TMDs successfully decreased the motions in both the tall structures caused by wind. TMD in the pyramidal tower reduced lateral displacement by 84%, while in the case of regular building, the reduction in lateral displacement is as low as 71%. A remarkable inference may be drawn from the results that the TMDs not only significantly reduce lateral displacements but also enhance structural stability, particularly in irregularly shaped buildings. Furthermore, a case study of cyclone ‘Fani’ is undertaken and the effect of wind load on the performance of regular and irregular buildings are simulated under a high wind speed of 250 kmph. The outcome of this natural event is in line with the theoretical observations. The regular building showed a maximum of 84% reduction in displacement, whereas the reduction in displacement in irregular buildings was 63% when TMD was introduced in the structures. The application of TMDs in tall structures have immense implications for engineering and construction practices, offering valuable insights for designing resilient structures in cyclone-prone regions.