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Title:

Reduction of Wind-Induced Vibrations in High-Mast Light Poles
Cover of Reduction of Wind-Induced Vibrations in High-Mast Light Poles

Accession Number:

01444572

Record Type:

Monograph

Availability:

National Technical Information Service

5301 Shawnee Road
Alexandria, VA 22312 USA

Abstract:

High-mast light poles are frequently used in areas where widespread illumination is required, such as along interstates and at major highway interchanges. The structures' heights are large relative to their cross-sectional dimensions, and, consequently, they are flexible and sensitive to wind loading. A number of failures of high-mast structures have occurred due to fatigue cracking. These failures have been linked to buffeting and vortex shedding loads. The primary study objective is to characterize the dynamic effects of wind-induced vibrations on high-mast structures in Laramie, Wyoming, and to propose several retrofits that increase the aerodynamic damping, thereby reducing vibrations. A 120-ft tall high-mast pole was monitored to determine its dynamic characteristics. The pole was then retrofitted with helical strakes, ribbon dampers, a perforated shroud, and surface roughness, and the difference in the dynamic response of the retrofitted and unretrofitted pole under similar wind conditions was examined. The perforated shroud covering approximately 13% of the pole prevented lock-in under the wind conditions tested. A second pole was monitored and exhibited a drastically different response. It was observed that traffic vibrations exciting the pole at higher frequencies prevented lock-in from occurring. This phenomenon has not previously been observed as reported in the literature.

Report Numbers:

FHWA-WY-10/02F

Language:

English

Corporate Authors:

University of Wyoming, Laramie

Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, 1000 East University Avenue
Laramie, WY 82071 USA

Wyoming Department of Transportation

Research Center, 5300 Bishop Boulevard
Cheyenne, WY 82009-3340 USA

Federal Highway Administration

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590 USA

Authors:

Ahearn, Emily B
Puckett, Jay A

Pagination:

121p

Publication Date:

2010-4

Edition:

Final Report

Media Type:

Web

Features:

Figures; Photos; References; Tables

Uncontrolled Terms:

Buffeting

Geographic Terms:

Wyoming

Subject Areas:

Bridges and other structures; Highways; I85: Safety Devices used in Transport Infrastructure

Files:

TRIS

Last Modified:

Aug 28 2012 4:04PM