The USGT Method for Suspender Tensioning of Self-Anchored Suspension Bridges

Unlike earth-anchored suspension bridges, self-anchored suspension bridges (SASBs) involve a special construction stage, namely, suspender tensioning, in which the tensioning force and sequence are crucial and complicated. Against this background, an example bridge A, a SASB with a steel-concrete composite beam, is introduced in detail. Using MIDAS finite element software, a suspender tensioning scheme is formulated based on a combination method of the unstrained state method and graded tension method (the USGT method), in which a suspender is tensioned according to its unstrained length. By analyzing the bending moment change of the beam and deflection of the main cable throughout the entire construction process, a “high-to-low” suspender tensioning sequence is proposed that also involves symmetrical tensioning from the main towers to the midspan or the anchor positions. In the optimized construction process, the deviation and stress of the main towers are controlled well, thereby ensuring the safety of the main beam and main towers in the construction process.

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