forces in motion

Zhuhai, München. Presently, and starting from Hong Kong, the 35km long Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is being constructed over the delta of the Pearl River. The bridge steel decks are exposed to laminar flows caused by wind, which may trigger the natural frequency of the bridge and consequently can lead to dangerous vibrations. To damp these vibrations, MAURER developed a TMD system (Tuned Mass Dampers) which is permanently fatigue-proof as well as wear-free. This system will be adapted on site to the real occurring natural frequencies. A particular challenge was in the low frequencies of up to 0.33Hz, the frictionless vertical guidance of big masses of up to 6,250kg, and the limited available space inside of the bridge deck.