Simulation of Deformations of Pre-Stressed Steel Trusses in Emergency Situations

Abstract

Purpose of research is to make methodology and algorithm for finite element modeling in a single computational scheme of deformation of flat steel trusses, previously stressed using high-strength ropes, in accordance with the chronology of impacts on the object in the form of prestresses, normative loads and emergency destruction of one of the bearing elements.Methods. The solution of the problem is carried out in geometrically nonlinear staging using numerical integration based on Newmark approach with the construction of equilibrium equations of the finite element model of the structure in a deformed state at each integration step. Structural nonlinearity related to structural restructuring and consideration of ropes operation for tension only is described. The application of gravity forces of the carrier system, sequential introduction of tightening and their prestress, the application of payload and emergency impact in the form of instantaneous local destruction are traced. Before failure occurs, static loading condition is simulated using dynamic relaxation method. Methodology of accounting within numerical integration of emergency impact is formulated by application of dummy forces, values of which are calculated in excluded structural element before its destruction.Results. Performance of presented computational procedure is illustrated by the example of a flat steel truss calculation with a span (54 m), including two ropes. Object behavior is considered considering the break of one of the ropes subjected to preliminary stress. It was revealed that the investigated emergency does not lead to the destruction of the second rope and the occurrence of plastic deformations in the truss rods.Conclusion: Completed developments can be used to ensure the survivability of pre-stressed steel trusses under beyond design basis effects, leading to the destruction of individual structural elements.