Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - SLB Disipators

Key Concepts

 

What is the SLB Dissipator?

It is a system based on increasing the building's ductility. It allows for the reduction of high-intensity seismic forces through a unique dual-dissipation mode, offering greater safety than conventional systems.

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How much energy does it manage to dissipate?

Energy reduction depends on the intensity of the earthquake and the structural design. The greater the number of dissipators installed, the higher the damping of the structure as the steel in the devices undergoes plastic deformation.

Is it an expensive solution?

On the contrary. SLBs are highly competitive due to their low unit cost. They can generate savings of up to 70% compared to other systems and reduce the overall cost of the structure by 10%, optimizing the design rather than making it more expensive.

 

 

Installation and Applications

In what type of projects can they be used?

• Steel structures: They are easily integrated using metallic diagonals.

• Prefabricated structures: Ideal for providing lateral stiffness and seismic control.

• Retrofitting existing buildings: Installed in diagonals or uncoupled walls to improve the safety of older structures.

• Wind protection: They help mitigate resonant vibrations caused by strong gusts.

Do they comply with regulations (E.030)?

Yes. They strictly comply with Article 23 of the Peruvian standard E.030 and current international ASCE/SEI 7 standards.

 

Where should the devices be located?

They can be placed freely in plan and height according to the architecture, as they do not transmit axial loads. They are especially effective on lower levels, the outer perimeter, or for correcting torsion and "soft story" problems.

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Maintenance and Durability

 

What is the lifespan of an SLB?

It is indefinite, similar to that of the building's structural steel. They only require adequate protection (painting) against corrosion and fire.

Do they need to be replaced after every earthquake?

Normally, no. Only an inspection is required:

• If the displacement was less than 1/3 of its limit, immediate occupancy is allowed.

• If it exceeded 2/3, a technical evaluation is required.

• They are only replaced if they reached their breaking point, an extremely unlikely extreme condition.

 

 

Quality and Manufacturing

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Do they have quality certification?

Yes. Each batch has material certificates under the ASTM-A370 standard, verifying the actual stress-strain curve of the structural steel used.

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How long does manufacturing take?

The estimated manufacturing time is approximately 15 days.

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Comparison: SLB Dissipators vs. Base Isolators

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While both seek "Immediate Occupancy," there are key differences:

• Safety and Failure: In isolators, the failure of a single unit can compromise the entire structure. In contrast, SLB dissipators distribute energy across several levels; if one were to fail, the assembly maintains its integrity.

• Maintenance: Isolators require strict maintenance and periodic replacement. SLB dissipators require no special maintenance throughout their useful life.

• Construction Simplicity: SLBs do not require special construction techniques or complex seismic joints, unlike base isolators which are more vulnerable to global overturning effects.

 

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Technical Specifications

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What is its maximum capacity?

The SLB4 model allows displacements of up to 60mm. Its behavior can be monitored via software (such as ETABS), where it is easy to visualize whether the device is working in its elastic or plastic range.