Aspects of Modeling Prestressed Concrete Sleepers Subjected to Positive Moment Test at Midspan

This paper aims to discuss aspects of modeling prestressed concrete sleepers based on experimental results. Midspan Positive Moment tests were performed on four prestressed sleepers. Using the ATENA 3D software, based on the Finite Element Method, numerical models were simulated through nonlinear analysis to adequately represent the behavior of the sleepers. To evaluate the influence of the crack model, the Young’s modulus, and the fracture energy, a parametric numerical analysis was performed, varying these parameters in stages to achieve a more realistic model. The crack model was evaluated by modifying the “fixed crack model” to a “rotated crack model” while the Young’s modulus and fracture energy were penalized by 0.00%, 5.00%, 10.00%, and 15.00% in relation to the value calculated according to the CEB FIP Model Code (2010). The numerical model with the “rotated crack model” and penalties of 0.00% and 5.00% for the Young’s modulus and fracture energy, respectively, presented a better approximation to the results presented in the experimental tests. Finally, from this calibrated model, an experimental versus numerical comparative analysis was performed, comparing the load versus displacement curves, failure loads, maximum displacements, and crack pattern behavior. In the future, constitutive models of bond slip and expansive reactions will be applied to the calibrated model.

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