This project is a collaboration between researchers at NTNU and Western University in Canada set out to study bridge performance under non-stationary wind conditions.

What are Downbursts and Why are They Important?

Downbursts are powerful, short-lived gusts of wind descending rapidly from storms. These non-stationary winds differ significantly from typical, steady wind patterns considered in bridge design codes, which account mainly for steady, uniform winds. However, our observations from full-scale monitoring have shown that sudden, intense wind events can cause very large and unexpected bridge deck displacements. The occurance of these downbursts-like wind events  highlights a critical gap in current engineering practices.

Bridging the Gap Between Real-World Observations and Lab Experiments

The ERIES-AEROBURST project aims to experimentally test how bridges respond to downburst winds in the advanced WindEEE Dome facility at Western University, Canada. The WindEEE Dome uniquely replicates realistic downburst conditions, enabling simulation of intense, transient wind with precise control. During these experiments, measurements of aerodynamic forces, bridge deck movements, and surface pressures will be taken. These experimental results will be directly compared with full-scale observations of long-span bridges exposed to similar extreme wind events.

Advancing the Bridge Aerodynamics Frontier Through Collaboration

This project represents a collaborative effort between two universities, combining NTNU's extensive expertise in bridge aerodynamics and structural analysis with Western's specialized experimental capabilities in producing downburst-like winds. This synergy will produce more complete insights and aid in recommendations for advanced bridge engineering design practices.

The project is supported by the Engineering Research Infrastructures for European Synergies (ERIES) project (www.eries.eu) under European Union’s Horizon Europe Framework Programme (Grant No. 101058684).