Relevant issues of periodic vibration monitoring of buildings and structures

Introduction. The author proposes a new universal optimization approach to mechanical safety monitoring of buildings and structures in the process of their operation. The new approach involves periodic monitoring of mechanic vibrations. Materials and methods. The methodology of periodic monitoring performable within the framework of general monitoring is based on the analysis of changes in the first natural frequency of a building or a structure and the logarithmic decrement of its damping along three mutually perpendicular axes. The shape and position of resonance peaks of the amplitude spectrum are employed to analyze resonant frequencies and logarithmic decrements of damping. The analysis of those electronically archived parameters is performed, whose values change over time proportionately with vibrations of a monitored facility. The time dependence of the first resonant frequency of a structure is considered as a generalized characteristic of its mechanical safety. Results. The author has shown that findings of the spectral analysis performed in respect of the vibration process are irrespective of a measurement method, provided that the uniformity of external influences is ensured. The frequency dependence of the structure’s first mode of vibrations on time (per year) has two non-linear sections within the entire term of operation. Following the analysis of measurements taken at construction facilities exposed to wind loads, it’s been found that advanced monitoring instruments can identify changes in the value of the first resonant frequency and the damping decrement with a reasonable degree of accuracy. The author believes that this finding has great practical importance. Conclusions. Identification of a trend towards a change in frequency and damping decrement values for the first mode of natural vibrations can help to schedule actions for the improvement of the mechanical safety of an engineering structure, and in some cases it can prevent an upcoming accident.