flexiblefullpage
billboard
interstitial1
catfish1
Currently Reading

Engineering innovation provides new option for meeting seismic codes in skyscrapers

Engineering innovation provides new option for meeting seismic codes in skyscrapers

Two University of Toronto engineers have developed “viscoelastic-energy-dissipating dampers” to replace many of the heavy concrete beams used in tall structures.


By By BD+C Staff | March 8, 2012

Two University of Toronto engineers have developed “viscoelastic-energy-dissipating dampers” to replace many of the heavy concrete beams used in tall structures.

They say these devices can absorb the vibrational energy from the wind and powerful jolts from earthquakes, with minimal movement and no damage.

With the damper, buildings can offer more leasable space, and be slimmer and taller, one of the engineers says.

For more information, click here. BD+C

Related Stories

Codes and Standards | Jul 31, 2015

2015 gypsum fire resistance design manual released

The 2015 edition contains nearly 100 new systems that supplement existing assemblies for walls and partitions, floor-ceiling systems, area separation walls, and many others.

Codes and Standards | Jul 27, 2015

New York City changing zoning rules to reduce shadows cast by high rises

For decades, the New York City’s zoning rules have made it hard to construct high-rise buildings that seem airy and minimize the shadows they cast. The city planning department is now working to change that.

Codes and Standards | Jul 27, 2015

ICC, ASHRAE outline roles to consolidate IgCC and 189.1

"IgCC Powered by 189.1” will provide the design and construction industry with “the single, most-effective way to deliver sustainable, resilient, high-performance buildings," according to the trade groups behind the agreement.

Codes and Standards | Jul 27, 2015

Tennessee county considers local worker requirement on construction projects

A proposed amendment to the charter governing Nashville and Davidson County would mandate that 40% of work hours on city- or county-funded construction jobs costing at least $100,000 be completed by residents.

Codes and Standards | Jul 27, 2015

New guide for installation of mineral fiber pipe insulation on chilled water systems

Developed for professional insulation contractors, the 36-page guide recommends methods for insulating chilled water piping systems using a vapor-sealed mineral fiber pipe insulation. 

Green | Jul 23, 2015

NASA: U.S. headed for worst droughts in a millennium

Data from NASA shows carbon emissions could be the driving force behind devastating water shortages and record droughts in the western U.S.

Multifamily Housing | Jul 16, 2015

Minneapolis relaxes parking requirements on new multifamily buildings

The city cut the number of spots required for large developments by half. It also will accept plans with no parking spaces in certain cases.

Codes and Standards | Jul 16, 2015

Berkeley, Calif., adopts balcony inspection program following deadly collapse

Apartment building balconies will be subject to inspections every three years under new regulations adopted following a deadly collapse.

Codes and Standards | Jul 16, 2015

Oregon to spend $300 million for seismic updates on public buildings

A survey found that more than 1,000 Oregon school buildings face a high risk of collapse during earthquakes.

boombox1
boombox2
native1

More In Category




halfpage1

Most Popular Content

  1. 2021 Giants 400 Report
  2. Top 150 Architecture Firms for 2019
  3. 13 projects that represent the future of affordable housing
  4. Sagrada Familia completion date pushed back due to coronavirus
  5. Top 160 Architecture Firms 2021