Prediction of ice accumulation on bridge cables during freezing rain: A theoretical modeling and experimental study

Abstract Accreted ice falling from bridge cables is a hazard to vehicles crossing the bridge. The falling ice can startle drivers, cause accidents, and break windshields. Therefore, predicting ice accretion on bridge cables is vital in determining the severity of the event and making decisions concerning bridge or lane closure. In this study, a simple ice accumulation model for freezing rain on bridge cables was developed that accounts for the cable inclination and determines the accretion orientation and shape. Indoor experiments in an icing wind tunnel were conducted on stainless steel cylindrical specimen with various inclinations. It was found that the inclination of the cables affected the ice thickness and prevalence of icicles. The model was evaluated by two icing events on the Veterans' Glass City Skyway Bridge in Toledo, Ohio. The modeled ice results were consistent with the observations. The model can be a valuable tool for ice accumulation prediction on bridge cables using forecasted weather data.