INVESTIGATION OF DYNAMIC BEHAVIOUR OF A HISTORICAL MASONRY ARCH BRIDGE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON SOLID AND SHELL ELEMENT MODELS WITH SAP2000

Abstract

Historical bridges are typically constructed of masonry materials and are susceptible to damage and environmental influences over time. Therefore, dynamic analyses and seismic behaviour are necessary to understand the current condition of bridges and minimize potential damage. This study examines the dynamic behaviour of the three-span historical Hüyüklü (Kemer) Bridge in Isparta, Turkey. Solid and shell finite element models were developed to assess its seismic performance, and modal and linear time history analyses were performed on the models. Based on the obtained results, the study compared the advantages and disadvantages of solid and shell elements, and discussed the effects of both element types on the seismic behaviour of the structure. Furthermore, the bridge's seismic behaviour was examined in detail, and its performance under dynamic loads was evaluated. The findings aim to provide useful information for the structural evaluation and conservation of historical masonry arch bridges.

Keywords

• Arch bridge
• Dynamic analysis
• Masonry
• SAP2000
• Shell element
• Solid element

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