Unsteady Aerodynamics and Vortex-Induced Aeroelastic Response of a Structural Angle Section

Abstract

Wake-body interactions for a two-dimensional structural angle member during stationary and vortex induced oscillatory conditions are studied using a conventional low turbulence wind tunnel. The response of an angle section with combined plunging and torsion indicates that the oscillations occur essentially in one of the two degrees-of-freedom. The measurements of frequency and phase substantiated this observation. The plunging resonance exhibits the familiar vortex capture phenomenon where the shedding frequency is controlled by the cylinder motion over a finite wind speed range. On the other hand, the torsional vibration shows a vortex control phenomenon where the vortex shedding governs the frequency of oscillation. The vortex-induced torsional resonance was found to be severe even at moderate damping levels. The results should prove useful in structural designs such as high-voltage transmission towers, antenna masts, bridges, etc., where angle sections are often used as secondary members.