Experimental Tests of Truss Bridge Gusset Plate Connections with Sway-Buckling Response
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 18, Issue 10
Abstract
The collapse of the Interstate 35W bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 2007 brought into question the strength of large-size gusset plates in steel truss bridges. To provide new data on the behavior and strength of large-size bridge-type gusset plates, experimental tests were performed and are described in this paper. The research program focused on sway-buckling behavior and test variables included plate thickness, compression diagonal flexural stiffness, initial out-of-plane imperfection, and member load combinations. Unique to this test program was the direct consideration of different compression diagonal out-of-plane flexural stiffnesses on plate buckling behavior and capacity. Results showed that sway-buckling behavior and ultimate capacity were affected by initial out-of-plane imperfections of the plate and the out-of-plane bending stiffness of the truss compression diagonal. Results also showed that the effective length factor, , a parameter used in present load rating guides, did not accurately predict sway-buckling capacity, and the Whitmore section approach may not be the best approximation for use in plate sway-buckling behavior. A stepped-column approach was shown to illustrate and predict the effect of the plate-member stiffness interaction on buckling capacity.
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Acknowledgments
This research was funded by the Oregon Transportation Research Consortium with matching funding provided by the Oregon Department of Transportation. The authors would like to recognize collaborative research performed at Portland State University by Dr. Peter Dusicka and Mr. Thomas Kay in developing detailed finite-element models of the experimental specimens. These findings will be reported in future works. The findings, conclusions, and recommendations presented are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the project sponsors or individuals acknowledged.
References
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© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Feb 10, 2012
Accepted: Aug 7, 2012
Published online: Sep 16, 2013
Published in print: Oct 1, 2013
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