A general and versatile nonlinear analysis program for concrete bridge structure

To meet the application of nonlinear FEM analysis to the real bridge structure, a general and versatile nonlinear analysis program for concrete bridge structures is presented in this paper. The structural effects such as material nonlinear behavior, prestress effect, construction process, temperature, creep of concrete and so on, which are concerned in practical engineering, are covered. To simulate the nonlinear behaviors, an efficient 3D degenerated beam element is adopted. The step-by-step analysis method allows one to comprehend the structural behaviors of the bridges during the construction, service, and failure periods, respectively. Finally, two examples are studied to verify the accuracy of the program and demonstrate its application in practical bridge engineering.