Skip to content
Linkedin 3

Tectonus DFFJ

Tectonus DFFJ is a conventional friction damper, upgraded with Tectonus technology. Unlike other friction dampers, DFFJ demonstrates stable performance over a range of frequencies, with no loss of clamping force. The precise control of the load deformation curve allows for a best-in-class overstrength factor. Coupled with high damping this unlocks huge savings in construction costs across structure and foundations. 

 

Stable E-P-P Performance

Tectonus DFFJ demonstrates Elastic-Perfectly-Plastic (E-P-P) hysteresis allowing for a simplified design process.

Any load and deformation capacity is possible and there is no limit to maximum deformation.

The device is configurable to the design level earthquake as set by the engineer of record. 

Every unit is fully performance tested before shipment. 

 

Next Generation Friction Damper

Friction dampers provide very high levels of damping without any yielding components. They can provide stable and repeatable load-deformation behavior without the need for replacement or repair.

Friction dampers can be predictable and stable for the range of frequencies typical of earthquake events. However, it is well known that friction dampers can suffer performance issues due to friction surface degradation and loss of clamping force.

Tectonus DFFJ overcomes this by applying a proprietary surface layer to the steel plates; and using disc springs which maintain clamping force in the event of any friction surface degradation.

Rigorously Tested

Thanks to our roots in academia, the DFFJ has been extensively tested as a component and as a full-scale system. 
 
  • Steel brace system as per ASCE 07-16 (dynamic at 0.45 Hz)
  • Steel brace system as per HCAI / OSHPD protocol
  • Dynamic component test as per EN15129
  • Dynamic component test as per ASCE 07-16.

Applications

Tectonus DFFJ is typically applied as a steel brace (Tectonus DMAX) or as a shear wall hold-down.  They have been applied in new and existing buildings and can be paired with concrete, timber, and steel. 
TOUCH
Steel Braces
Steel Braces
TOUCH
Concrete Shearwalls
Concrete Shearwalls
TOUCH
Timber Shearwalls
Timber Shearwalls
FEATURED PROJECTS

Since its introduction in 2022 Tectonus DFFJ has been successfully installed in several projects already with 100s more in development. Structural designers are fast appreciating the significant cost savings on offer to the delight of their clients and project partners.