School of Research and Training in Earthquake Engineering, University of Roorkee, Roorkee.
This paper deals with a method of determination of virtual mass for partially and fully submerged structures surrounded by water. The experimental technique is simple and can be used for determination of virtual mass m case of structures like intake towers, bridge piers and similar structures. The virtual mass depends on the geometry of the structure and its dynamic properties in air. Due to the surrounding water, the natural frequency of vibration of a structure decreases but the damping increases. Due to the added mass of the surrounding water, the stresses and strains in the structure under dynamic conditions will be increased but some relief will be provided by increased damping.
