Experimental and numerical investigations on tensile capacity of corroded strands

Abstract

A refined finite element model of corroded seven-wire steel strand was established based on finite element software. It was then compared and validated against the experimental results, demonstrating the accurate prediction capability of the model for variations in actual loads. To better capture the influence of corrosion on axial load bearing capacity of steel strands, an analysis was conducted using a relationship between axial load reduction coefficient θ and mass loss rate χ. Furthermore, this study investigates the effects of residual diameter dc/d, geometric parameters, and yield strength on the axial load reduction coefficient of steel strands. The research findings indicate that while there is a correlation between axial load reduction coefficient and residual diameter, no significant relationship exists with geometric parameters or yield strength. Based on extensive random finite element analysis, a predictive formula for lower limits of θ-χ curves for corroded steel strands at different levels of corrosion is proposed. By measuring the mass loss rate of steel strands, it becomes possible to more effectively predict their minimum axial load-bearing capacity and ensure operational safety under corrosive conditions.