Abstract
Fixed-end restraint effect of arch ribs on the over-all, in-plane ultimate strength of deck type steel arch bridges is studied by an accurate nonlinear finite element approach. This approach takes into consideration the two important factors on nonlinearities, namely, geometric and material. The interaction between bending moment and axial thrust, the changes in deflection mode, and the progress of yielding and unloading zones with load level until the ultimate state are throughly examined. The load-deflection behavior, until the stability limit load is reached, has also been analyzed by elastic theory. Special characteristics of the local member failure of arch rib between the posts are finally investigated.
