Wind tunnel testing of a cable stayed bridge pylon
Last modified: 2024-05-07
Abstract
One of the objectives wind tunnel aeroelastic testing for bridges in smooth or very turbulent flows is to identify the potential of vortex-detached vibration and verify that wind speeds associated with the flutter instability are sufficiently high. This document shows the experimental methodology used for the study of the aeroelastic behavior of a pylon of a cable stayed bridge, which will be located in México city.
Measurements of the response of the pylon were performed at four different wind azimuths in relation to the longitudinal axis of the bridge; i.e. 0° (along the axis of the bridge), 30°, 60° and 90° (perpendicular to the axis of the bridge) and taking advantage of the symmetry of the bridge for these measurements.
The results of the analysis are presented in terms of forces, moments and displacements in different sections of the model; low turbulence and turbulent wind flows that reproduce the local conditions at the site were simulated in an atmospheric boundary layer wind tunnel. Construction and service stages of the bridge are considered. Based on the analysis of the results, final comments and recommendations are issued.
Measurements of the response of the pylon were performed at four different wind azimuths in relation to the longitudinal axis of the bridge; i.e. 0° (along the axis of the bridge), 30°, 60° and 90° (perpendicular to the axis of the bridge) and taking advantage of the symmetry of the bridge for these measurements.
The results of the analysis are presented in terms of forces, moments and displacements in different sections of the model; low turbulence and turbulent wind flows that reproduce the local conditions at the site were simulated in an atmospheric boundary layer wind tunnel. Construction and service stages of the bridge are considered. Based on the analysis of the results, final comments and recommendations are issued.
Keywords
CABLE STAYED BRIDGES, AEROELASTIC TESTING, WIND TUNNEL