AERODYNAMIC STABILITY OF BRIDGES WITH VARIOUS LEVELS OF STRUCTURAL DAMPING

Abstract

Introduction: Structural damping is one of the most important parameters affecting the aerodynamic stability of bridge structures. Purpose of the study: We aimed to assess the effect that structural damping of a bridge structure has on its stability in a wind current. Methods: In the course of the study, we performed experimental studies of the aerodynamic stability in typical girder bridge structures (with two and four main girders) with different levels of structural damping, facilitated by a unique experimental unit: Large Research Gradient Wind Tunnel, courtesy of the National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering (NRU MGSU). Results: The results of the experimental studies show that, despite the general trend towards the decrease in the amplitude of bridge span structure oscillations as the structural damping level increases, the dependence between these parameters is nonlinear. When providing R&D support in the design of real-life structures, in case it is necessary to increase the aerodynamic stability of the superstructure by increasing the level of structural damping (changing the type of joints in structural elements, using mechanical damping devices), it is recommended to conduct experimental studies in wind tunnels to assess the effectiveness of a given solution.