Nonlinear Rail-Structure Interaction Analysis of an Elevated Skewed Steel Guideway
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 16, Issue 3
Abstract
The use of continuous welded rail (CWR) with direct fixation of track on concrete deck is typical of most modern light-rail aerial structures. The interaction between the CWR and the elevated structure takes place through direct-fixation rail fasteners, which have a nonlinear force-displacement relationship. Factors that have significant influence on this interaction include the following: the bearing arrangement at the substructure units, trackwork terminating on the aerial structure, type of deck construction, and type of rail fasteners. To better understand the interaction mechanism, a nonlinear three-dimensional (3D) finite-element analysis of a straight, skewed, elevated steel guideway was carried out using the commercially available software GT STRUDL. The load cases considered in this study are temperature change, temperature change with rail breaking, and train braking. Results are presented in the form of rail axial stresses along the length of the bridge and normal bearing forces at both abutments and at all pier locations. The study shows that nonlinear 3D modeling can give a comprehensive insight into the rail-structure interaction (RSI) forces.
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Acknowledgments
This project was carried out with technical contribution from Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc. (LAN), Dallas and Houston Offices. However, the views of the writers expressed in this paper do not necessarily reflect those of LAN.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 16 • Issue 3 • May 2011
Pages: 392 - 399
Copyright
© 2011 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jan 22, 2010
Accepted: Jul 22, 2010
Published online: Aug 20, 2010
Published in print: May 1, 2011
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