Aerodynamics of the Messina Bridge Deck Progetto Definitivo

One of the major design challenges of the 3300 m main span of the Messina Bridge is to achieve satisfactory aerodynamic performance whilst keeping the weight of the main cables and steel deck within acceptable limits. In order to achieve this goal, the bridge owner Stretto di Messina has developed a comprehensive specification for aerodynamic testing and calculations to be carried out during the Progetto Definitivo and Progetto Esecutivo phases calling for parallel wind tunnel tests of the major bridge components such as suspended deck structure and towers to be carried out at independent wind tunnel laboratories. The present paper will present key elements of the aerodynamic design specification and the wind tunnel test programme carried out for the suspended deck structure and the results characterizing the aerodynamics of the three box deck structure.