Characterization of an ER Active Member

by Henri P. Gavin, Univ of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States,
Robert D. Hanson, (M.ASCE), Univ of Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Structures Congress XII

Abstract:

In the presence of strong electric fields (kV/mm), electrorheological (ER) materials change form viscous fluids to yielding materials. The class of ER materials used in this study have low power consumption, large dynamic range, and other properties related to longevity and reliability specifically tailored for implementation in civil engineering structures. By constraining the flow in an ER damping device, one dimensional models of ER flow can be applied, and the behavior of the device can be parameterized. A multi-dimensional curve-fit of data from tests on the device is capable of predicting the complex response of ER active members, and is a useful tool for control purposes.

Subject Headings: Material properties | Damping | Vibration | Structural reliability | Materials characterization | Material tests | Fluid dynamics

Services: Buy this book/Buy this article

 

Return to search