Dynamic performance of a concrete-filled steel tube high-pier curved continuous truss girder bridge due to moving vehicles

Abstract

The dynamic performance of a new type of concrete-filled steel tube high-pier curved continuous truss girder bridges under moving vehicles is studied combining field testing and numerical simulation method by an actual bridge example. The dynamic response data were obtained before opening to traffic for the bridge under moving testing vehicles. A three-dimensional vehicle and bridge coupled vibration analysis model for curved bridges is proposed and validated. The dynamic behavior characteristics and vehicular ride comfort for this new type bridge are studied considering variable road surface and other conditions. The results indicate that the dynamic impacts of this bridge from vehicles are underestimated compared with those defined in the design code. In addition, the dynamic impact factors vary significantly for the local components and some of them could exceed the design value. Finally, the riding comfort of this bridge is evaluated, which suggests a fairly uncomfortable condition.