Wind tunnel tests and numerical approach for long span bridges: The Messina bridge

•A methodology for the aerodynamic design of long span bridges is proposed•The methodology relies on a synergic use of experimental-numerical analysis•It was developed and applied on important bridge projects (Messina, FRC, Izmit)

An overview of the wind tunnel activities and methodologies developed in the last years to support the design of long span suspension bridges is proposed. The most important aspects of the wind-bridge interaction are investigated considering the aerodynamic phenomena affecting the different parts of the bridge (mainly deck and towers). The experimental activities and results are proposed in the framework of a synergic approach between numerical and experimental methodologies that represents the common practice in defining the full scale aeroelastic behavior of the bridge starting from scaled reproduction of the wind-bridge interaction. Static and dynamic wind loads, aeroelastic stability, vortex induced vibrations will be investigated.

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