An improved filtering method based on EEMD and wavelet-threshold for modal parameter identification of hydraulic structure

Modal parameter identification is a core issue in the health monitoring and damage detection of hydraulic structures. The parameters are mainly obtained from the measured vibrational response under ambient excitation. However, the response signal is mixed with noise and interference signals, which will cover the structure vibration information; therefore, the parameter cannot be identified. This paper proposes an improved filtering method based on an ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) and wavelet threshold method. A 'noise index' is presented to estimate the noise degree of the components decomposed by the EEMD, and this index is related to the wavelet threshold calculation. In addition, the improved filtering method combined with an eigensystem realization algorithm (ERA) and a singular entropy (SE) is applied to an operational modal identification of a roof overflow powerhouse with a bulb tubular unit.