Model test and numerical analysis of a special joint for a truss bridge

This paper presents a study on the mechanical behaviours of a special joint between a rigid suspension cable and a truss girder in a rigid suspension stiffened steel truss bridge. Both a model test and a numerical finite element analysis (FEA) have been conducted, and relevant information about the models used, loading procedure and test scheme is presented. The model test shows that the maximum stress in the joint is less than the material allowable stress and the maximal stress induced from the secondary moment accounts for about 30% of the total stress. A three-dimensional finite element model is used in the numerical analysis and the results are in very good agreement with those of the model test. This study shows that the design of the special joint is reasonable and the structure safe. It is also expected that the results presented in this paper would be useful as references for future research and design of rigid suspension stiffened steel truss bridges and joints.