Bridge flutter derivatives based on computed, validated pressure fields

This paper presents the results of numerical investigations of bridge aeroelasticity. In particular static coefficients and instationary flutter derivatives for a symmetric bridge deck section using the Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) method are obtained. The numerical model uses the Finite Volume discretization. The performed simulations are two-dimensional, and the turbulence is simulated by the k–ω-SST model. The numerical model is validated by force and pressure measurements from wind tunnel experiments. The main goal of this work is to assess the capability of the numerically affordable URANS method for estimating bridge flutter derivatives. In general the simulated aeroelastic surface pressures and integrated forces are in good accordance with the aeroelastic pressure fields and forces identified from comparative wind tunnel tests. This is particularly the case in the range of moderate reduced velocities and for flow effects without dominant vortex shedding. The results demonstrate the capability of the URANS method to derive bridge flutter derivatives and static coefficients in a numerically effective and efficient way.

► Numerical investigation of bridge aeroelasticity.
► Calculation of flutter derivatives by computational fluid dynamics.
► Validation and assessment of the numerical model with wind-tunnel experiments.