Wind-tunnel study of the Weirton-Steubenville cable-stayed bridge
Date
1982-08
Authors
Peterka, J. A. (Jon A.), author
Bienkiewicz, Bogusz, author
Cermak, Jack E., author
Fluid Dynamics and Diffusion Laboratory, College of Engineering, Colorado State University, publisher
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Journal ISSN
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Abstract
A section model of the proposed Weirton-Steubenville cable-stayed bridge was used in the wind-tunnel study. The freely oscillating section model of the bridge deck was studied to evaluate the aerodynamic stability of the bridge. Basic aerodynamic derivatives were extracted in smooth flow and were used to estimate the prototype bridge critical wind speed for the one degree-of-freedom (torsional) flutter. The amplitude of the vortex-induced bridge oscillation was also assessed. The bridge section model response revealed one degree-of-freedom (torsional) flutter instability occurring at a critical wind speed dependent upon the value of mechanical damping of the model. The estimated critical speed for the prototype bridge was about 190 mph for the ratio of assumed damping to critical of the order of 0.8 percent and angles of attack in the range from -6 degrees to +6 degrees. Vortex-induced oscillation of the bridge section model (both in a vertical and a torsional degree-of-freedom) occurred at substantially lower speeds. The maximum amplitude of the corresponding prototype motion (higher for vertical oscillation) was estimated not to exceed 0.5 percent of B (where B is the width of the bridge deck) for the same damping level. The aerodynamic behavior of the bridge deck was improved by streamlining of the deck geometry.
Description
Includes bibliographical references.
For Modejski and Masters, Consulting Engineers.
CER82-83JEC-BB-JAP5.
For Modejski and Masters, Consulting Engineers.
CER82-83JEC-BB-JAP5.
Rights Access
Subject
Wind tunnel models
Cable-stayed bridges -- Aerodynamics