The effect of modeling method of FEM for horizontally loaded end sway bracing structures on the elastoplastic behavior

Abstract

The number of aging bridges in Japan is on the rise, prompting a growing trend in research focused on predicting the load-carrying capacity of bridges using 3D FEM. However, when modeling steel bridges with 3D FEM, modeling of secondary members, such as lateral bracing and sway bracing, varies depending on analysts. The effect of different modeling of secondary members on the analytical results is not clear. Then in this paper, the effect of secondary member modeling on analytical results were investigated in FEM, with focusing on end sway bracings. It is identified that influential modeling methods for evaluating the elastic and ultimate behavior of the horizontally loaded end sway bracing structures.