Analytical Models of Frictional Resistance between Cable and Saddle Equipped with Friction Plates for Multispan Suspension Bridges

Abstract

Frictional resistance between the main cable and saddle is essential for counterpoising huge unbalanced cable tension in different spans of multispan suspension bridges. Vertical and horizontal friction plates are employed to increase frictional resistance in suspension bridges. In this study, two mechanical models are presented to analyze the frictional resistance between the cable and saddle. Based on the models, analytical formulas of frictional resistance are derived when the saddle is equipped with vertical or horizontal friction plates. The presented analytical methods were validated by finite element models and large-scale model tests. The main components of frictional resistance were found to include friction between the cable and saddle and friction between the cable and friction plates. The effects of vertical and horizontal friction plates on frictional resistance were investigated. The results indicated that the presented mechanical models provide an effective and efficient tool for evaluating the contributions of vertical or horizontal friction plates to frictional resistance. Incorporating vertical or horizontal friction plates significantly increases frictional resistance.