Field test and numerical studies of the scissors-AVLB type bridge

Abstract

Abstract Scissor bridges are characterized by high mobility and modular structure. A single module-span consists of two spanning parts of the bridge; two main trucks and the support structure. Pin joints are used between modules of the single bridge span. Some aspects of the experimental test and numerical analysis of the scissor-AVLB type bridge operation are presented in this paper. Numerical analyses, presented here, were carried out for the scissors-type BLG bridge with treadways extended as compared to the classical bridge operated up to the present in the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland. A structural modification of this kind considerably affects any changes in the effort of the force transmitting structure of the bridge. These changes may prove to be disadvantageous to the whole structure because of torsional moments that additionally load the treadways. Giving careful consideration to such operational instances has been highly appreciated because of the possibility of using this kind of bridges while organizing the crossing for vehicles featured with various wheel/track spaces (different from those used previously). The BLG bridge was numerically analysed to assess displacements and distributions of stresses throughout the bridge structure in different loading modes. Because of the complexity of the structure in question and simplifications assumed at the stage of constructing geometric and discrete models, the deformable 3D model of the scissors-type bridge needs verification. Verification of the reliability of models was performed by comparing deflections obtained in the different load modes that corresponded with tests performed on the test stand. It has been shown that the examined changes in conditions of loading the treadways of the bridge are of the greatest effect to the effort of the area of the joint which is attached to the girder bottom. Stress concentrations determined in the analysis are not hazardous to safe operation of the structure