Complex aerodynamic admittance function role in buffeting response of a bridge deck

The estimated response of a long-span suspended bridge deck to turbulent wind, depends on the deck section, on the average horizontal wind speed and on the turbulence characteristics. The aerodynamic admittance function describes the relationship between the smooth and turbulent wind response of the deck. A new experimental technique, based on the use of an active turbulence generator, is here applied in order to measure a complex aerodynamic admittance function. This admittance function is then used in a new expression of the buffeting forces. Comparison between spring-supported sectional model response in wind tunnel and numerical simulation is shown. The introduced force expression is then applied to an FEM model of the Humber Bridge, and the predicted response is compared with full-scale measurements. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.