A simple procedure for the non-linear optimization of cable tension for suspended bridges

A simple procedure for the non-linear optimization of cable tension for suspended bridges

Ida MASCOLO, Mariano MODANO, Federico GUARRACINO

Abstract. Long-span suspended bridges rely upon networks of tensed cables that carry the weight of the deck. The networks of cables are generally connected to a number of vertical towers (pylons) that transfer the forces to the foundations as in the case of cable-stayed bridge. Their structural behaviour is highly influenced by the pretension forces on account of the redundancy of the structure. Several methods have been proposed for determining pretension the forces in the cables, such as Load-Balance Method, Iterative Unit Load Method, Force Equilibrium Method, Zero Displacement Method. The present study aims to investigate the influence of geometrical non-linearities on the optimization of the design. To this end, the Force Equilibrium Method is here extended and compared to the use of a Finite Element commercial package, since this is the standard method in everyday engineering practice. The comparison between the Force Equilibrium Method and FEM results shows that the first method, in spite of its simplicity, is able to provide a reasonable and reliable alternative to the more complex non-linear FE approaches.

Keywords
Suspended-Deck Bridge, Cable Tensioning, Bridge Optimisation

Published online 3/17/2022, 6 pages
Copyright © 2023 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA

Citation: Ida MASCOLO, Mariano MODANO, Federico GUARRACINO, A simple procedure for the non-linear optimization of cable tension for suspended bridges, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 26, pp 169-174, 2023

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644902431-28

The article was published as article 28 of the book Theoretical and Applied Mechanics

Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.

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