Abstract: A friction damping system for use in a system having at least one of a pair of sliding elements. The friction damping system has a friction producing element positioned between the sliding elements such that at least one of the sliding elements rubs against the friction producing element to generate friction and thereby damp the relative sliding movement of the sliding elements. The friction producing element may be provided in a housing that is fixed to one of the sliding elements with the friction producing element facing and contacting the other sliding element. The friction damping system may further be designed to provide directional sensitivity such that damping of movement of the sliding elements in a first direction is greater than damping of movement in a second direction opposite the first direction. Such directional sensitivity may be accomplished by angling one of the surfaces against which the friction producing element moves during sliding movement of the sliding elements.