Abstract

LU, P  and  SHAO, C. Parametric study on the behaviour of Y-shaped composite bridges. J. S. Afr. Inst. Civ. Eng. [online]. 2014, vol.56, n.3, pp.34-43. ISSN 2309-8775.

A composite Y-shaped bridge was analysed as a three-dimensional structure, using commercially available software. A finite element model to simulate the structural behaviour of the bridge was used to study its static and dynamic behaviour in order to gain a better understanding of the interaction between the main bridge and the ramp. An extensive parametric study was conducted, in which a typical composite Y-shaped bridge model was analysed and tested. The key parameters considered in this study were: loading conditions, ramp radius of curvature, ramp longitudinal slopes, bifurcate diaphragm plate stiffness, and loading cases. The structural behaviour of composite bridges is discussed in detail. The results from this study could enable bridge engineers to design complex composite Y-shaped bridges more reliably and economically.

Keywords : composite bridge; box girder; ramp; interaction; finite element method; experimental modal analysis.

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