Tuned Sloshing Dampers With Large Rectangular Core Penetrations

Abstract Space restrictions at the top of tall buildings may necessitate using tuned sloshing dampers (TSD) tanks with large rectangular penetrations to accommodate the structural core of the tower. A finite element model is employed to predict the natural sloshing frequencies and mode shapes of liquid sloshing in a rectangular tank with a rectangular core. Equivalent mechanical properties are determined to predict the sloshing response. Frequency response predictions of wave heights, sloshing forces, and energy-dissipation per cycle agree with results from shake table testing conducted on a rectangular tank with a rectangular core. Energy dissipation due to flow around the core adds considerable damping to the liquid and is proportional to the response velocity-squared. Nonlinear coupling among sloshing modes results in multiple peaks in the frequency response plots near the fundamental resonant frequency. An interior core with a broad dimension in one direction substantially reduces the fundamental sloshing frequency and equivalent mechanical mass in the perpendicular direction; however, the fundamental sloshing frequency and equivalent mechanical mass in the parallel direction are only influenced marginally. Large rectangular cores reduce the proportion of the total water mass that is effective in controlling tower motion. A TSD with a rectangular penetrating core may enable a TSD option to be considered for the control of a tall building in cases where a traditional rectangular TSD is infeasible.