Cable Dynamic Stability Experiment of the “Ji-Lu” Cable-stayed Bridge on Taiwan Provincial Highway 139

Cable Dynamic Stability Experiment of the “Ji-Lu” Cable-stayed Bridge on Taiwan Provincial Highway 139

This research project involved appraisal of the ability of the steel cable used in cable-stayed bridges to withstand rain-wind-induced vibration. Studies in other countries have shown that rain and wind can cause strong vibration in the cables of cable-stayed bridges resulting to damage of the transition pipes and speeding up the degradation of the anchor sections and corrosion protection grout, which in turn decreases the lifespan service of the steel cables. In serious cases, the impact of the cable striking the bridge can cause damage to the bridge deck. Moreover, this study used forced vibration testing and field observation techniques during typhoons to evaluate the stability of cable against rain-wind induced vibration, and thereby to design a suitable viscous vibration damper. On-site testing and recording help clarify engineering issues, thereby making it possible to determine whether restrainer cables or viscous dampers are needed.