Experimental Investigation of the Robustness of Scaled Steel Truss Bridge Specimens

Abstract

This study investigated the mechanical behaviour of a scaled steel Pratt-type truss bridge under damage. The study focused on determining how the load is redistributed in the structure when individual members are removed and how this affects the overall load-bearing capacity of the structure.

The study conducted a series of load tests in which specific members were systematically removed from the bridge and the strain of the remaining members was measured. The tests included the removal of the top chord, diagonal, vertical and bottom chord. The results showed that the steel truss bridge has significant redundancy, meaning that it can still carry significant loads even if individual members are removed. The largest changes in load distribution and strain were observed when the top chord was removed, highlighting the critical role of top chord for the integrity of the structure.

The study also revealed that the load is redistributed in the structure when members are removed. This redistribution occurred mainly through the adjacent members. Overall, this study highlights the complex mechanical behaviour and load distribution of steel truss bridges in the event of damage. The results provide valuable information for engineers who design and assess the safety and durability of such structures.