Bygningsdämpere

Bygningsdämpere is a Scandinavian term referring to mechanical devices and systems installed in buildings to reduce unwanted motion, vibrations, or energy input from sources such as wind, traffic, machinery or earthquakes. They work by dissipating kinetic energy, altering dynamic properties of a structure or counteracting resonant movement, and are used both in new construction and retrofit projects to improve comfort, safety and structural performance.

Common types include viscous dampers (using fluid flow to dissipate energy), viscoelastic dampers (material hysteresis), friction dampers (sliding surfaces converting motion to heat), yielding and hysteretic dampers (metal deformation), tuned mass dampers (secondary masses tuned to oppose specific modes) and base isolation systems that decouple a building from ground motion. Selection depends on the hazard (seismic versus wind), frequency range, available space and maintenance requirements.

Applications range from high-rise towers and long-span structures to heritage buildings and industrial facilities. Design considerations include target damping ratios, placement relative to structural modes, durability, redundancy and compliance with local building codes and seismic standards. Performance is typically evaluated through modelling, laboratory testing and field monitoring.

Advantages of bygningsdämpere are reduced structural demand, improved occupant comfort and lower repair costs after extreme events. Limitations include added cost, need for periodic inspection and potential performance changes over time or under extreme loading, so proper specification and quality control are essential.