Discrete vortex simulation of flow around five generic bridge deck sections

Abstract Two-dimensional viscous incompressible flow past five generic bridge deck cross sections are investigated by means of the discrete vortex method. The analyses yields root mean square lift coefficients and Strouhal numbers for fixed cross sections and aerodynamic derivatives for the cross sections undergoing forced oscillatory cross wind and twisting motion. Fair agreement is established between the present simulations and wind tunnel test results reported in the literature.