Bidimensional numerical simulations on the flow around elementary sections focusing on the study of dynamic instability on bridges

• Grant number: 16/14144-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2016
• End date: September 30, 2017
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Civil Engineering - Structural Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Guilherme Rosa Franzini
• Grantee: Rafael Koji Nagano
• Host Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Fluid-structure interaction phenomena are of marked importance on engineering. Usually, these phenomena may lead to structural oscillations that can affect its lifespan. There are mathematical models for the estimation of the critical velocity that cause self-excited oscillations. Such models are based on the equations of motion, excited by the aerodynamic loads. Aerodynamic loads are defined as functions of force and moments coefficients that depend on the geometry and the incidence of flow. Considering the structure as prismatic elements, the aerodynamic coefficients are functions of the angle of attack. The evaluation of these coefficients may be carried out by means of experiments or numerical simulations, being the latter the approach herein adopted. The objective of this research project is the definition of the aerodynamic coefficient for geometries similar to found in bridges. With the coefficients numerically obtained, critical wind velocities will be determined. Before the investigations with the bridge geometry, a series of simulations with simplified geometries will be carried out and compared with data available in the literature. These preliminary simulations will allow to obtain the necessary skill in the use of the software to be employed in the simulations.