An Experimental Study on Ice Accretion under Bridge Cable in Different Conditions

Abstract

The ice accumulation on the surface of the stay cable of the bridge is a frequently identified problem that threatens the safety of bridge traffic. Therefore, it is important to investigate the ice accumulation on the stay cable under different conditions. To understand the distribution characteristics and variation rules of ice, this study analyzed the effects of ambient temperature, cable inclination angle, and diameter on the ice accumulation of the high-density polyethylene (HDPE) stay cable. The results show that the ambient temperature significantly affects ice formation in the lower part of the stay cable. Low temperature facilitates the formation and growth of icicles, while larger size and inclination angle of the stay cable inhibit the icicle growth. When the inclination angle of the cable is less than 60°, icicles easily form at the bottom of the cable. Smaller-diameter cables are more likely to accumulate icicles at the bottom.