Experimental testing of a semi-active control scheme for vibration suppression

An experimental investigation was performed on a semi-active control scheme that uses the rheological properties of electro-rheological fluids (ER-fluids) in squeeze-flow mode to control the dynamic behavior of Single-Degree-of-Freedom (SDOF) systems. The reversible and very rapid changes in the mechanical properties of the fluid under variable voltage are exploited by using a control scheme that automatically turns ''on'' and ''off' the electrical field as loads are applied. This control scheme rapidly adapts to any changes in the mechanical properties of the system, reducing the response of the structure for a wide range of excitation frequencies. The ER-fluid used in this study, Zeolite in Silicone oil, was subjected to an electrical field range from one to five kV/mm. Tests were carried out for the ''off' system, the ''on'' system, and the controlled system, and the experimental and analytical results were compared. The experimental results show that this control scheme is effective for reducing the vibration of the system. Other types of ER-fluid should be tested using this control scheme to investigate the most effective fluid for vibration suppression.