Analysis of Lateral Slippage Mechanism and Behavior for Curved Continuous Bridge

Abstract

Because of the lack of sophisticated theories of analysis and design, the breakage of curved bridges is often reported recently. Based on the conclusions of dominant cause analysis, the mechanism, process and behavior of breakage is discussed for a curved continuous bridge in Shenzhen. Unstable displacement of the curved continuous bridge occurred after operation for two years. With temperature growth, the reactions at two ends of the curved girder increase rapidly. The support system at ends is corrupted because of their weakness in strength. As a result, the curved girder losses its stability and slides outside. The behavior of the girder after slippage is described based on energy principal.