Seismic response control of high arch dams including contraction joint using nonlinear super-elastic SMA damper

Abstract In this study, the shape memory alloy (SMA) restrainer bars utilized to reduce the seismic response of arch dams with vertical contraction joints were investigated. The SMA damper model and the nonlinear behavior of arch dams affected by contraction joint opening/closing during earthquakes were simulated in ANSYS. Moreover, the nonlinear damping control principle and method were discussed. The effectivity of the SMA restrainer bars in arch dams was assessed through comparing with a traditional measure of reinforced steel across contraction joints. The SMA restrainer bars were effective in limiting the relative openings of the contraction joints and reducing the seismic acceleration. In addition, the new SMA vibration damper devices of arch dams are simple and easy to install.