Reliability-based strength limit state for steel railway bridges

Abstract

Railway bridges require special attention to provide safe and economical service. To assess the reliability of a structure, all critical parameters need to be specified. Load and resistance are random in nature; hence, the probabilistic approach is the best method for accurate evaluation of the performance of a bridge. In this study, identification of critical parameters was conducted on a typical through-plate girder, riveted, open deck railway bridge. This type of structure is a weakest link system. In such a system, the failure of one component can lead to failure of the entire structural system. This research involved identification of the basic load and resistance parameters and the development of analytical procedures for modelling the structural behaviour. The finite element method (FEM) was used to investigate the structural performance characteristics of the evaluated bridge. A three-dimensional structural model was developed to determine stress distribution in the members and connections. Based on the results of FEM analysis, the reliability indices were calculated for critical components.

Keywords::

• finite element method
• loading spectra
• railway bridge
• reliability analysis
• resistance parameters
• series system