Dynamic responses of Tsing Ma Bridge and running safety of trains subjected to Typhoon York

A three-dimensional wind–train–bridge interaction model, which consists of a spatial finite element bridge model, a train model composed of eight 4-axle identical coaches of 27 degrees of freedom, and a turbulent wind model is established for the Tsing Ma suspension bridge located in Hong Kong during Typhoon York. The acceleration and displacement responses of the bridge induced by turbulent winds and running trains are computed and compared with the responses measured from the field. The comparison is found to be satisfactory in general. The runnability of the train passing through the Tsing Ma Bridge at different speeds is researched under turbulent winds. Then the threshold curve of wind velocity for ensuring the running safety of the train in the bridge deck is proposed, from which the allowable train speed at different wind velocities can be determined.