Investigation on Similarity between Dynamic Behavior of a Reduced-Scale One Span Historical Masonry Arch Bridge Model and Prototype Bridge

Abstract

Experimental investigations of large and complex structural systems can be carried out by reduced-scale models in terms of convenience, time-saving and economical. This can be applied to different fields of study such as vibration, impact and explosion problems in structural engineering and allows reliable analysis to understand the static and dynamic behavior of real structures called a prototype. This study aims that a 1/3 reduced-scale model is created in the laboratory environment considering similitude requirements by selecting a single span historical masonry arch bridge as a prototype structure. For this purpose, the Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) Technique is utilized for experimental study to determine modal parameters of the prototype and model bridges. The similarity of the dynamic behavior of the reduced-scale bridge model and prototype are investigated. The analysis of the similarity in the dynamic behavior of the prototype and model bridge consists of comparing the natural frequencies and mode shapes by utilizing the modal assurance criterion (MAC) corresponding to the translational, bending and torsional modes. As a result of the study, it is concluded that the dynamic behavior of the reduced-scale bridge model is similar to the dynamic behavior of the prototype bridge.