One of the essential requirements of modern design and analysis of bridges, cables, and other wind-sensitive structures is to verify that the engineered systems can safely resist wind loads. Wind tunnel results are crucial for calibrating aerodynamic models and informing simulation tools.

The wind tunnel facility at NTNU is highly suited to investigate wind-structure interaction, particularly in the context of long-span bridges where aerodynamic behaviour is a governing design criterion. The wind tunnel has a 2 m 3 m test section with a 100 km/h max wind speed.

Test capabilities extend from static wind load assessment to high-fidelity dynamic investigations, including imposed structural motions to study aeroelasticity. Forces relevant for assessment of flutter, buffeting, and vortex-induced vibrations that can critically affect design and performance can be measured during the tests. 

NTNU has developed a new system for forced vibration test of section models. The apparatus is capable of reproducing simulataneous horizontal, verical, and pitching motion of bridge decks whilst measuring the aerodynamic forces. This equipment is used to develop new load models as well as investigating the accuracy of existing models. 

A novel feature of the facility is its active turbulence generation system, enabling the reproduction of realistic turbulent flows with large eddy scales. The combination of controlled turbulence and dynamic excitation takes the experimental studies one step closer to the real environments felt by structures in situ.