Structural Response of an Extra-Wide Concrete Self-Anchored Suspension Bridge under Static Vehicle Loads: Testing and Numerical Simulations

The finite element (FE) analysis by ANSYS software based on field test was used to study the structural performance of an extra-wide concrete self-anchored suspension bridge under static vehicle loads. The longitudinal, transverse and vertical stresses of the extra-wide girder were analyzed, and the changing criteria of girder stresses induced by vehicle loads were presented. Additionally, the effects of the shear lag on extra-wide box girders were investigated. The results showed that the maximum shear lag coefficient was 1.89 at the junction of bottom plate and outer web at the middle of midspan. Moreover, the non-uniformity of cable force is perceptible under eccentric load. Furthermore, an optimization measure for comparable bridges and essential health monitoring locations were outlined.