New stiff dampers based on shape memory alloys

Damping in structural applications require not only a high damping coefficient η but also a stiff behaviour in order to avoid the deformation of the structure, so the optimization of structural damping require a high merit index η·E. Using a patented technology of ultra-high damping composite materials based on SMA, we have developed some prototypes of dampers which exhibit both stiffness and high damping coefficient.
In this work we give a description of such dampers, as well as their characteristics and performances. We analyse some potential applications in several industrial sectors. Besides, these new dampers offer excellent performances at low frequencies, where the dynamic damping systems start to loose their good characteristics, and they also show a good potential to work in series with such devices to extend their performance at low frequencies.