Wind-induced vibration analysis of the Hong Kong Ting Kau Bridge

Abstract

Because of their high flexibility and relatively low structural damping, long-span bridges are prone to wind-induced vibration. An efficient wind field simulation technique for wind-induced vibration analysis of long-span bridges is first introduced in this paper. The time-domain expressions for the buffeting and self-excited forces acting on long-span bridges can then be found from the wind velocities. Based on the above theory and the aerodynamic parameters obtained by wind tunnel tests, a study of the wind fluctuations and aerodynamic forces is carried out on the Hong Kong Ting Kau Bridge, which is a cable-stayed bridge comprising two main spans and two side spans. The buffeting response of the bridge is analysed in the time domain by using step-by-step numerical integration techniques. The aerodynamic behaviour of the bridge can therefore be obtained, and the safety performance of the bridge against strong wind can further be evaluated. Numerical results basically agree with the experimental data, indicating that the theory presented in this paper is applicable to engineering practice.