The IPF of Padua is a world-renowned manufacturer of anti-seismic and anti-vibration devices. These devices are designed to protect various structures such as buildings, bridges, viaducts and more, from natural forces like earthquakes and strong winds. The company has implemented their devices in renowned structures such as the Storebalt Bridge in Denmark, Stonecutters Bridge in Hong Kong, Ospedale del Mare in Naples, and the Rion-Antirion Bridge in Greece.
One notable project that the IPF of Padua worked on was the Taipei 101 skyscraper in Taiwan. The tower stands at 508 meters tall and is covered in light green glass and steel. It houses offices, restaurants, and a viewing deck, offering panoramic views of the city. However, during its construction, seismologists raised concerns about its safety due to its location on a fault line. Despite these concerns, the IPF of Padua implemented a Tuned Mass Damper (TMD), which is a massive steel sphere weighing 660 tons and measuring 5.5 meters in diameter. This TMD was placed at the top of the structure to counterbalance horizontal forces generated by earthquakes and wind.
The TMD installed in Taipei 101 oscillates in the opposite direction to the building, reducing the impact of seismic events and wind forces. Although it was initially controversial among some critics who questioned its effectiveness during construction, it has become an engineering marvel that attracts visitors from around the world today. The TMD is exposed to the public, allowing visitors to witness this innovative technology firsthand while enjoying breathtaking views of Taipei City.
Overall, the IPF of Padua’s expertise and contributions have been instrumental in ensuring the safety and stability of various architectural marvels around the world through advanced anti-seismic technologies.
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