Submitted by Michael Frankfort @mfrank_76
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Taipei 101, a massive skyscraper, uses a “wind damper” to stay steady during earthquakes and typhoons. This giant golden ball, also known as a tuned mass damper, hangs between the 87th and 92nd floors. It consists of an oscillating mass, a spring, and a viscodamper, which together generate a reaction force to counteract external shocks and vibrations.
The wind damper reduces the building’s oscillation, which can cause discomfort to people inside. It was particularly effective during events like Typhoon Soulik in 2013 and a 6.1 magnitude earthquake in 2019, preventing harm and discomfort by negating up to 40% of the building’s oscillation. This innovative mechanism is one of only two wind dampers in the world open to visitors.