Abstract
Suspension and cable-stayed bridge cables are currently vulnerable to multiple scenarios that can jeopardize the integrity of the bridge. These can include accidental truck fires and more recently, terrorist attacks. The inherent nature of suspension and cable-stay bridges leaves little redundancy to their structural loads paths. For this reason they are more susceptible to terrorist attacks than possibly any other structure. This paper looks at a composite cable shield composed of various materials each tailored to protect against unique threats. Several test specimens were manufactured by Fyfe Co. LLC and proof tested by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Multiple threat scenarios were simulated by plastic explosives, extreme heat differentials, and various cutting mechanisms. The distinctive prefabricated connections provide for fast installation and a very robust design to prevent cable shield separation under extreme loads. Through the use of several advanced composite materials the cable shields provide a widespread umbrella of protection for potential threats.
Published Version
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