Vortex-Induced Vibration Characteristics and Equivalent Static Force Calculation Method of Circular Steel Hangers on Arch Bridge

Abstract

In order to study the vortex-induced vibration (VIV) characteristics and equivalent static force calculation method of circular steel hangers on the arch bridge, a numerical simulation model of VIV was established using FLUENT software, and the reliability of the model was verified by wind tunnel tests. Effects of wind speed, damping ratio, initial tension and slenderness ratio on the VIV characteristics of circular steel hanger were investigated. Furthermore, the equivalent static force calculation formula and loading range of hanger considering VIV were presented. The results show that with the hanger’s damping ratio decreasing, the maximum amplitude and the lock-in wind speed range increases gradually, while the wind speed and frequency of VIV at the maximum amplitude were not significantly affected. As the initial tension increases or the slenderness ratio decreases, the frequency of VIV increases, and the wind speed corresponding to the maximum amplitude increases, however the maximum vibration amplitude has few changes. Based on a number of numerical analyses on VIV characteristics of hangers, the equivalent static force calculation method is put forward. The equivalent static force calculation method could provide a reference for the design and static analysis of the circular steel hangers.