Experimental investigation of integral scaled model on load-carrying capacity of main stadium of Shenzhen Universiade Sport Center

A new type of structural system named as 'single-layer folded-plane spatial reticulated structure' was adopted in the steel roof of main stadium in Shenzhen Universiade Sport Center.An experimental investigation of integral structural scaled model was carried out.The loading with a 'pre-stacked self-balancing loading system' and the scheme of 'stretching in batch and grade using manual chain hoists','controlling by displacement firstly-then adjusting by inner force',was conducted to study the stiffness variation and load-carrying capacity of the model.The weak regions and failure mechanism were observed and investigated accordingly.Test results agree with analytical results by FEM,indicating that single-layer folded-plane spatial reticulated structure has enough integral stiffness and safety factor,however the load-carrying capacity is determined by individual members in high tension stress.The connection of members under high tension force and bending moment with joints in shoulder apex is the weak region of the whole structure,therefore the regions should be much concerned and the welding quality should be controlled strictly during construction.