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Articles
  • OpenAccess
  • 3-D Modelling of the Confederation Bridge Using Data of Full Scale Tests  [CCES 2013]
  • DOI: 10.4236/ojce.2013.33B004   PP.18 - 25
  • Author(s)
  • Lan Lin
  • ABSTRACT
  • Long-span bridges are special structures that require advanced analysis techniques to examine their performance. This paper presents a procedure developed to model the Confederation Bridge using 3-D beam elements. The model was validated using the data collected before the opening of the bridge to the public. The bridge was instrumented to conduct fullscale static and dynamic tests. The static tests were to measure the deflection of the bridge pier while the dynamic tests to measure the free vibrations of the pier due to a sudden release of the static load. Confederation Bridge is one of the longest reinforced concrete bridges in the world. It connects the province of Prince Edward Island and the province of New Brunswick in Canada. Due to its strategic location and vital role as a transportation link between these two provinces, it was designed using higher safety factors than those for typical highway bridges. After validating the present numerical model, a procedure was developed to evaluate the performance of similar bridges subjected to traffic and seismic loads. It is of interest to note that the foundation stiffness and the modulus of elasticity of the concrete have significant effects on the structural responses of the Confederation Bridge.

  • KEYWORDS
  • 3-D Numerical Modeling; Finite Element Technique; Static Tests; Dynamic Tests; Acceleration Time History; Fourier Analysis; Full Scale Test; Seismic Evaluation; Confederation Bridge
  • References
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    CSA, “Design of Highway Bridge,” Standard CAN/CSA-S6-88, Canadian Standard Association, Rexdale, Ontario, 1988.
    [2]
    MTO, “Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code,” Ministry of Transportation of Ontario, Downsview, Ontario, 1991.
    [3]
    G. Tadros, “The Confederation Bridge: An Overview,” Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 24, No. 6, 2001, pp. 850-866.
    http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/cjce-24-6-850
    [4]
    CSI, “SAP2000 Integrated Software for Structural Analysis and Design,” Computers and Structures Inc., Berkeley, California.
    [5]
    A. Ghali, M. Elbadry and S. Megally, “Two-Year Deflections of the Confederation Bridge,” Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 27, No. 6, 2000, pp. 1139-1149.
    http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/l00-050
    [6]
    T. G. Brown and K. R. Croasdale, “Confederation Bridge Ice Force Monitoring Joint Industry Project Annual Report-1997,” IFN Engineering Ltd., Calgary, Alberta.
    [7]
    L. Lin, “Seismic Evaluation of the Confederation Bridge,” Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 37, No. 6 2009, pp. 821-833.
    http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/L10-019
    [8]
    D. T. Lau, T. Brown, M. S. Cheung and W.C. Li, “Dynamic Modelling and Behavior of the Confederation Bridge,” Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 31, No. 2, 2004, pp. 379-390.
    http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/l03-106
    [9]
    SRAC, “COSMOS-Finite Element Analysis Software,” Structural Research and Analysis Corporation (SRAC), Santa Monica, California.

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