Fatigue stress analysis of orthotropic steel bridge decks in Xinghai Bay Cross-sea Bridge

Fatigue properties of orthotropic steel bridge deck of Xinghai Bay Cross-sea Bridge in Dalian were analyzed. The segment model of orthotropic bridge deck was established by using the finite element software Abaqus. The intersection between diaphragm and U-rib was selected to analysis. The fatigue loading model III was adopted which was provided by “Specifications for Design of Highway Steel Bridge”. First, the transverse stress influence line and the transverse severest loading position were determined. Then, five loading regions were selected near the transverse severest position. The stress amplitude of the intersection was ascertained through loading on the longitudinal bridge for each region. Finally, the fatigue checking for the intersection was carried out. The results showed that the maximum fatigue stress amplitude of orthotropic deck in Xinghai Bay Cross-sea Bridge met the requirements of "Specifications for Design of Highway Steel Bridge".