Assessment of Stone Arch Bridges under Static Loading Using Analytical Techniques

Abstract

In this paper the maximum load carrying capacity of masonry arch bridges are assessed. Particularly, stone bridges under investigation have a perfect semicircular geometry and no binding material is used between voussoirs. Analytical methods adopted in this study are the method of virtual work and the mechanism method. In both cases the maximum concentrated load that the bridge can withstand is obtained. Drawing thrust lines for stone arches has a key role in the methods used. Additionally the concept of geometrical factor of safety is also addressed. As a case study, the first century A.D. Roman arch bridge; namely the Titus Tunnel Bridge, is investigated using the methods developed. CE Database subject headings: Stone arches, masonry bridges, mechanism method, thrust lines, geometrical factor of safety, Titus Tunnel Bridge, geometrical nonlinearity.