Abstract
Versatility and high performance in terms of specific stiffness and strength, as well as non-corrosive sensitivity, make FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Polymer) cables a viable alternative to steel ones in the development of prestressing systems. On the other hand, the orthotropic and brittle nature of FRPs could trigger a premature failure of the cable in the anchorage system, for which several solutions have been proposed so far in civil structural applications. In this context, after a preliminary state of the art, the work introduces a split wedge anchorage for FRP (ϕ = 12 mm) cables proposing two different solutions for steel wedges having the external surface: either (1) a constant (3 degrees) slope or (2) a double slope obtained by shaping it with an angle of 3.0 degrees before and then of 3.1 degrees along the most tapered part. The goal was to exploit the nominal cable capacity (257 kN), avoiding stress peaks that cause its premature failure. The proposed solutions have been experimentally tested and, as far as the double angle solution is concerned, the failure loads were equal to 222 and 257 kN, denoting that the proposed solution can reach the cable capacity. Clearly, further investigations are needed to check the variability of the results and eventually improve the system.
Highlights
IntroductionPublisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations
Academic Editors: Alessandra Aprile, Giorgio Monti and Eva O.L
The wedge shape should be defined [22,23,24,25,26] in order to reduce the bond stress along the Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) cable: this is the purpose of the present work, which will concern the experimental validation of a new anchorage system, after discussing the main literature proposals
Summary
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. Burgoyne (1987) [8] proposed the use of Parafil® Aramid ropes as a prestressing external system, in order to increase the capacity of bridge beams Those ropes were adopted to support the bridge deck of the Aberfeldy footbridge [9], which was entirely made of FRP elements. Split wedge anchorages are composed of (1) an external metallic barrel; (2) two or more internal wedges; and (3) a cable covered by a cylindrical sleeve They derive from those used to prestress concrete elements and need to be adapted if combined with FRP cables. The wedge shape should be defined [22,23,24,25,26] in order to reduce the bond stress along the FRP cable: this is the purpose of the present work, which will concern the experimental validation of a new anchorage system, after discussing the main literature proposals. The use of a DIC system to monitor wedge displacements and cable strains can be mentioned as novelty in the framework of the anchorage tests
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
