KTI Schwingungstechnik

Tuned mass damper for pedestrian bridge
Safely over the Salzach – on foot and by bike

Wilhelm-Kaufmann-Steg pedestrian bridge in Salzburg.
Wilhelm-Kaufmann-Steg pedestrian bridge in Salzburg.

The span length and the narrow design of the pedestrian bridge over the river Salzach posed the problem of inadmissible vibrations being generated by pedestrians and cyclists. Three KTI dampers quickly solved the problem.

The Wilhelm-Kaufmann-Steg is a 94.5-metre long cable-stayed bridge over the river Salzach in Salzburg, Austria, weighing 130 tonnes. The structural damping of the bridge measured 0.3 %. To prevent pedestrians and cyclists causing excessive vibrations when crossing the bridge, three tuned mass dampers were installed that increased structural damping to 6.6 %.

KTI engineers developed specially for the Wilhelm-Kaufmann-Steg two mass dampers with 2.5 Hz and one damper with 1.5 Hz, with a weight of 2,680 kg each. The vibration frequency of these dampers can be varied by means of trim weights. They are also provided with an adjustable viscose damping system. In this way, inadmissible vibrations in the bridge can be reliably prevented and the pedestrian bridge therefore crossed in complete safety.

Following a preliminary draft design of the tuned mass damper, measurements were carried out on the bridge in order to ascertain the required damper frequency. KTI experts then tested the mass dampers in their works before delivering them to the site. After they had been installed by the customer, KTI personnel carried out fine adjustment on site. The customer performed the acceptance tests, after which the access cover on the bridge was sealed and the path surface was laid.

This KTI solution is another example of KTI’s excellence in the supply of inexpensive products with optimum customer-orientation and short delivery times. KTI tuned mass dampers provide outstanding service not only in bridges but also in work platforms and building ceilings.

One of three tuned mass dampers for the Wilhelm-Kaufmann-Steg, with 2,680 kg and 1.5 Hz.
One of three tuned mass dampers for the Wilhelm-Kaufmann-Steg, with 2,680 kg and 1.5 Hz.

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