Validated Analysis of Wheeling Suspension Bridge

Abstract

The historic Wheeling suspension bridge over the Ohio River is one of the 57 long-span suspension bridges in operation in the United States. The bridge was designed and constructed in 1849 by Charles Ellet, Jr., who rightfully may be considered the father of the modern American suspension bridge. Despite the fact that the bridge was not designed to carry today's live loads, the bridge has served as a vital link across the Ohio River for nearly a century and a half. This paper represents the first comprehensive structural analysis using modern computer techniques and in situ nondestructive testing evaluation of this bridge. Static analysis showed that deflections and stresses caused by present-day loading conditions are within allowable limits. Rating factors demonstrated that none of the structural members are overstressed by the posted live load. Seismic analysis to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials loads showed little damage, which was confined to floor beams at the east tower. Analysis using historic earthquakes showed localized damage of floor beams and diagonal floor ties at the east tower and top chords of the stiffening truss at midspan. The methodology developed could be applied to a wide range of cable suspension bridges.