3-D Nonlinear Finite Element Modeling of Cable-stayed Bridge

A 3-D nonlinear analysis of a cable-stayed bridge by finite element method is presented in this paper. Various nonlinearity concepts in cable-stayed bridges are described. A realistic analytical cable-stayed bridge model is developed by using SAP2000 finite element program. The static and dynamic response of the cable-stayed bridge under dead load, live load and seismic load is investigated, taking the effects of several nonlinearities into account. Forces and deformations of the members due to various load combinations are calculated. The effect of the distribution of the cable tensioning on the bridge performance and the seismic behavior of the ?floating deck system? of the cable-stayed bridge are also discussed. (A)