Performance of tuned mass dampers under wind loads

The performance of both passive and active tuned mass damper (TMD) systems can be readily assessed by parametric studies which have been the subject of numerous research. The results of those parametric studies are invaluable in the selection of optimum TMD parameters. Few experimental verifications of TMD theory have been carried out, particularly those involving active control, but the results of those experiments generally compared well with those obtained by parametric studies. Despite some serious design constraints, a number of passive and active tuned mass damper systems have been successfully installed in tall buildings and other structures to reduce the dynamic response due to wind and earthquakes. The results of extensive full-scale measurement programs conducted on a significant number of these clearly show the effectiveness of the systems.