Identification of the modal properties of a squat historic tower for the tuning of a FE model

This work describes the modalities of non-destructive tests performed on the clock tower of Trani Castle (Bari, Italy) by using accelerometers installed in different points of the structure . The acquired data have been analysed to identify the modal parameters of the structure that may be used for the calibration of a Finite Element (FE) model. After a description of the investigated structure, the paper gives full details about the experimental set-ups, the operational modal analysis of the recorded data, and the defined FE model. The particular squat structure of the clock tower has suggested to make not only the traditional monitoring under only environmental actions, but also forced tests by mean of a vibrodine ad-hoc designed and realized.