An analysis of the nonlinear static behavior of self-anchored long span bridges

In this paper the nonlinear static behaviour of self-anchored long-span bridges is investigated by using a finite element model of the bridge. Both fan-shaped cable-stayed bridges and combined cable stayed-suspension bridge schemes are considered in the analysis. Geometrically nonlinear effects arising from the inherent cables nonlinear behaviour, in coupling with the instability effect of axial compression in girder and pylons are considered in the analysis. Different live loading conditions are examined to investigate the strong influence of cables nonlinearities on the overall stability bridge behaviour, especially when the assumed loading condition produces cables unloading. For the combined cable stayed-suspension bridge scheme the incidence of the cable-stayed and the suspension structural components on the overall behaviour of the bridge is also examined.