Construction solutions of modern large-span tube-concrete arch bridges
Abstract
The effectiveness of modern arch bridges is achieved by new design solutions. The considered examples of bridges that received the highest rating during operation, and promising areas for further research and development of arch bridges using pipe concrete are given.
Large-span arched structures have significant potential bearing capacity and can be used as structures to solve the problems of new construction and reconstruction of buildings and structures. They are able to change the uniformity of the environment with their architectural appeal. Arches are especially convenient for use as bearing structures of bridges in mountainous areas where the problem of thrust is solved. The introduction of tube-concrete in the design of arches gave impetus to their further study and effective practical application.
Constructive solutions of modern tube-concrete arch bridges are constantly changing. This is caused by the need to increase the overall dimensions of structures, as well as the introduction of new ultrastrong materials and scientific developments into the construction.
Tube-concrete is not only a durable and load-resistant structural material, but also economical in the process of manufacturing and operation. A metal tube is the external surface of the structure that is being built and can have various processing performed in the factory. The manufacture of formwork from metal tubes allows you to make the dimensions, shape and configuration different depending on the requirements of the project.
In the future, large-span tube-concrete arch bridges should be used for high-speed rail. Such bridges with a rigid skeleton are insensitive to daily temperature fluctuations and have good durability.
Even though there is success in the design and construction of tube-concrete arch bridges, existing technologies still cannot satisfy existing needs. Thus, it is necessary to constantly search for new design solutions and solve critical issues of improving the fatigue characteristics of welded joints, optimizing the concrete segments, and further reducing the weight of the structure, which will help increase the span.
The article examined a large number of tube-concrete arch bridges and studied their design solutions. It can be concluded that today there is no single methodology for designing sufficiently promising arch bridges, therefore this problem is relevant and requires further study.
