Simulation of particle dampers using the combined finite-discrete element method—a simple case

Abstract

Particle dampers are increasingly popular in the application of seismic engineering. Vibration suppression and energy dissipation are achieved with the interactive impact of granular particles embedded within their containers. The combined finite-discrete element method (FEM/DEM) is employed in the simulation of particle dampers in this paper. Two key impact mechanisms are addressed: the particle-wall impact and particle-particle impact. A simple example is given, showing that structures with particle dampers are more capable of absorbing energy than their counterpart with an equivalent mass. Numerical results prove that the FEM/DEM is applicable and reliable in analysing particle damping systems.