Aerodynamic Stability and Wind Loads of the Cooper River Bridge Replacement

摘要

When completed in 2005, the new Cooper River Bridge at Charleston, South Carolina with a total span of 3296 (1005 m) will become the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America This bridge presented serious challenges to the design team due to the extreme wind and earthquake conditions at the site. An extensive program of sectional model tests was carried out to ensure a stable, serviceable and economical deck configuration. The stability of the completed bridge was verified on an aeroelastic model. All critical construction stages were also investigated Wind loads were derived theoretically and as well directly measured from the aeroelastic model. The completed bridge and as well all critical construction stages were found to meet all stability and comfort criteria.