Wind Field Numerical Simulation of a Cable-stayed Bridge in a Mountainous Area Using Improved Inlet Boundary by CIRFG Method

Bridges in mountainous areas are indispensable nodes in transportation networks, and wind resistance capabilities have become a controlling factor of long-span bridges built in mountain areas. Therefore, it is necessary to study the characteristics of wind fields under complex terrain. An improved inlet boundary by fitting the boundary curve was proposed in this study. The inlet fluctuating wind field was generated by the Correlation Improved Random Flow Generation method (CIRFG). The results of the numerical simulations show that the fluctuating wind input generated by CIRFG tallies with the target wind field, which proves the reliability of the proposed method. The method of fitting boundary curves to give inlet wind speed profiles can achieve non-uniform wind profile inputs. The results show the wind direction of the gorge varies significantly by height. The wind speed at the summit will accelerate affected by the terrain. Also influenced by the terrain, the turbulence intensity profiles in the simulated area show an S-shape. The transverse wind and angle of attack are uneven along the main girder, especially near slopes. The conclusions obtained in the study can provide references for the wind resistance of bridges built in mountainous areas.

Automated summary

The study investigates the characteristics of wind fields in mountainous areas, which are crucial for the construction of long-span bridges. An improved method of fitting boundary curves is proposed and the fluctuating wind field is generated using the Correlation Improved Random Flow Generation method. Numerical simulations confirm the reliability of the proposed method. The results provide insights into the wind resistance of bridges built in mountainous areas.