Estimation of torsional-flutter probability in flexible bridges considering randomness in flutter derivatives

Torsional-flutter instability is an aeroelastic phenomenon of interest to the bridge engineer, corresponding to a torsionally unstable vibration regime of the deck driven by wind excitation and appearing beyond a certain critical wind velocity. In this study a method for the derivation of the flutter probability for long-span bridges with bluff decks is proposed. first part of this study the deterministic problem is addressed. In contrast with the classical solution method in the frequency domain based on a numerical procedure for assessing the critical wind velocity, a single-mode “closed-form” algorithm for the derivation of the critical velocity was investigated. A polynomial representation of the aeroelastic-loading coefficients (flutter derivatives), necessary for torsional-flutter analysis, was utilized. second part an algorithm for estimating the torsional-flutter probability was developed, considering randomness in bridge properties, and flutter derivatives in particular due to their preeminent role in torsional-flutter velocity estimation. mental errors in the extraction of flutter derivatives from wind tunnel tests were analyzed. The “closed-form” algorithm, developed in the first part, allowed for a direct numerical solution of the flutter probability in a simple way. rsional-flutter probability for three simulated bridge models with rectangular closed-box and truss-type girder deck was numerically determined. A set of experimental data, available from the literature, was employed. The simulations enabled the validation of the proposed algorithm.