Model test on an integral joint of steel struss bridge subjected to multi-directional loadings

In this research, a 1:3 scaled model was tested to investigate the stress state of the integral joints (A28) of arch rib and top chord in the Rongjiang Bridge in Xiashen High Speed Railway in service stage. Meanwhile, a verified finite element model was built up to numerically obtain the static behavior of the full-scale joint under multi-directional tension and pressure loadings. It is noted that the self-balance loading ring is suitable for the experiment of the integral joints under multi-directional large loadings. It can be observed that no visual deformation occurs during the test, the stress of the scaled model is always in the elastic stage under different loading cases and the maximum stress is 181.7 MPa. It can be concluded from the simulation results that the central region of the joint is under biaxial stress state and this integral joint is safe in service stage.