Dynamic load testing and FE model updating based on frequency response of a plain concrete arch bridge

This paper describes modal identification and finite element updating of an existing plain concrete arch bridge, so as to create a reliable numerical model that enables the accurate numerical simulation of the dynamic behavior of the bridge under locomotive loads. The inherent complexity in the behavior of the bridge and modeling uncertainties such as boundary conditions and material properties will seek out more accurate studies and researches, the bridge FE model was developed using ANSYS software. In this paper dynamic behavior correlation between highly detailed FE model and the experimental result is studied; natural frequency is selected as benchmark criteria. For this purpose, the nonlinear behavior of the material, support conditions and soil properties beneath the piers were identified as modeling parameters which the dynamic behavior of the bridge is much influenced by

Keywords:

arch bridge , dynamic analysis , finite element method , dynamic characteristic