Field Instrumentation and Measured Response of the I-295 Cable-Stayed Bridge: Part 2. Field Study of Thermal Responses

摘要

The report describes the results of a field study of the thermal responses of a cable-stayed bridge. Data were gathered from the I-295 James River Bridge, a precast segmental concrete bridge with a cable-stayed main span consisting of twin box girders connected by delta frames. The thermal gradient and associated thermal strains in the box girders and pylons were measured using an extensive array of thermocouples and strain-gaged reinforcing bars installed at selected locations in the main-span box girder and south pylon. The temperature and strain response data were compared with that predicted from detailed finite element models of the structure using both frame and plate elements. Comparison revealed a complex three-dimensional strain pattern dependent on the wind direction and the angle of solar incidence.