Full-scale segment model test and performance improvement scheme of cable-pylon anchorage zone for cable-stayed bridge

Abstract

The cable-pylon anchorage zone is a crucial part to ensure the safety of the cable-stayed bridge. However, the true stress and cracks of the cable-pylon anchorage zones are hard to be reflected by theoretical analysis due to their complex configuration. In this paper, full-scale segmental test, finite element (FE) simulation and theoretical analysis are carried out to investigate the distribution of the stress and cracks for the anchorage zone. The form and development of the cracks are observed by full-scale segmental test. The results show that the vertical cracks appear firstly at the anchor end, and then develop into through-cracks under 110% of the design cable force. In addition, the stress distribution of the anchorage zone is studied by FE simulation and theoretical analysis, which demonstrates that the anchorage end has a great risk of cracking. Based on the studies in this paper, an improvement scheme is proposed with a modified layout of prestressing tendons. When the improvement scheme is adopted, the tensile stress of the anchorage zone is obviously decreased and the cracking is improved. This improved method can provide a reference for the design of cable-pylon anchorage zone.