Prediction of aerodynamic characteristics of a box girder bridge section using the LES turbulence model

In this study, acrodynamic characteristics of a box girder bridge section are investigated by three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics using the LES turbulence model. Flow around the streamline box girder section is analyzed, and the effect of section details on the aerodynamic characteristics of bridge section is evaluated. In addition, forced vibration cases are simulated to investigate the aeroelastic behavior of rectangular sections with a high aspect ratio. The flutter characteristics of a box girder bridge section (B/D = 11.6) are investigated and compared with experimental results of the generic rectangular cross-sections. Finally, influence of the geometrical modifications on the aeroelastic instability of the bridge section is pursued. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.