Development of load cells for simultaneous measurement of drag, lift, and moment for section models of bridge decks under wind load

• Published in: Experimental techniques (Westport, Conn.) Conn.), 2009-11, Vol.33 (6), p.38-45
• Main Authors: Rajan, S. Selvi, Jaya, K. P., Lakshmanan, N.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aerodynamics; Bridges; Characterization and Evaluation of Materials; Chemistry and Materials Science; Materials Science; Prototypes; Techniques; Wind tunnels
• ISSN: 0732-8818; 1747-1567
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-1567.2009.00532.x

A section model of a bridge deck represents geometrical similarity to that of the prototype bridge and when aerodynamic similitude is conducted in a wind tunnel, it is further aerodynamically similar to the full-scale bridge structure. Sectional models are conceived as prototype substitutes for bridge aerodynamics and have been successfully used in wind tunnel studies to ensure the stability of full-scale bridges. A typical rigid section of the bridge deck is mounted on the static test rig in the wind tunnel in a manner that measures the wind-induced static and dynamic components of aerodynamic coefficients, namely, drag, lift, and moment. In this static wind tunnel test, the sectional model of the deck is subjected to various angles of attack. Here, Rajan et al discuss the development of load cells for simultaneous measurement of drag, lift, and moment for section models of bridge decks under wind load.