Impact of Countermeasures against Galloping Wind Instability Using Variously Shaped Bridge Decks

Cyclones, distinguished by their extreme wind hazards, are among the most severe natural phenomena, causing extensive destruction across large geographical areas where they occur. The impact of cyclones is particularly critical in structural engineering, where phenomena such as wind-induced galloping in bridge decks demand rigorous aerodynamic analysis to ensure stability and safety. This study examines the effectiveness of various passive aerodynamic countermeasures in mitigating galloping instability across different bridge deck shapes, including streamlined, semi-streamlined, bluff-shaped, and thin plate designs. The aerodynamic performance of each deck shape has been analyzed under different wind conditions using computational simulations. Results show that streamlined decks are the most resistant to galloping, followed by passive countermeasure designs, while thin plates exhibit the highest susceptibility to instability. These findings highlight the significance of deck shape and aerodynamic design in mitigating galloping instability. The study concludes that tailored passive aerodynamic countermeasures can substantially enhance bridge stability, effectively mitigating wind-induced risks and improving long-term safety.