The paper presents a summary of numerical analysis on static behaviour of suspension bridges with varying rigidity of cables. The primary purpose of this study was to compare suspension systems with flexible and rigid cables and to determine the influence of varying rigidity of cables on the response of bridge members under the action of uniformly distributed symmetrical and unsymmetrical static loading. The finite element analysis of a three-dimensional bridge model was performed. In the first model, the cable is modelled as TRUSS3D element, in the second model as BEAM3D element. In both models, the hangers and backstays are TRUSS3D elements and stiffening girder as BEAM3D element. It is shown that a suitable increase of main cable's bending stiffness can effectively reduce the displacements, internal forces and stresses of suspension systems. Recommendations for appropriate stiffness are given.
Design for durability of road infrastructures is becoming increasingly important in view of its large impact on economics. Reinforcement corrosion is the most common cause of concrete deterioration of bridge structures in Latvia. The ingress of chlorides is often considered to be the major threat to durability of concrete structures. During the winter season de-icing salts are spread out on roads to avoid formation of ice and ensure the anti-sliding properties of the road surface. The melting water mixes with de-icing salt are splashed and sprayed on reinforced concrete pier structures by passing vehicles. Absorbed water with chloride ions initiates and accelerates the reinforcement corrosion process. This paper highlights the results of investing accumulation of chlorides in reinforced concrete bridge piers located near high traffic volume roads in Latvia. The chloride contents were determined on different surfaces of reinforced concrete piers. Environmental conditions were analysed and prediction of remaining service life for chloride induced reinforcement corrosion was performed.
Modification and stabilization of road structure unbound layers has extensively been studied both at laboratory and field for decades. The most commonly used binders for soil modification and stabilization are cement and quicklime (CaO), but alternative pozzolans and their mixtures are of economical, technical and environmental interest. This study presents soil stabilization with wood fly ash (WFA) at laboratory. Natural sand (Sa), Sa mixtures with 10% and 20% WFA were compacted at optimal water content according to Standard Proctor test LVS EN 13286-2:2012, and California bearing ratio (CBR) tested according to LVS EN 13286-47:2012 for cured samples after 96 hours immersed in water with 2 kg surcharge and after 7 days sealed simultaneously. At the same time also Immediate bearing index was determined for natural soil and their mixture with 10% WFA. Results showed 3.79 times enhancement in CBR values Sa after 7 days curing, justifying that WFA is valuable material for hydraulically bound mixtures.
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