Numerical Model and Dynamic Characteristics Analysis of Cable-Stayed Bridge

The aim of this work is to numerically model a cable-stayed bridge, study its dynamic characteristics using two engineering tools viz. MATLAB® and SAP2000® and compare the results with those from the experimental analysis. The bridge considered for the study is a two-span cable-stayed bridge over the Garigliano River along the coast road between Rome and Naples. The structural details including material or sectional properties, boundary conditions and experimental responses are adopted [2]. It is observed that the present numerical model captures the experimental data well with minor discrepancies, which can be attributed to lack of proper data in numerical modelling. The finite element model can be further improved with the access of more structural data and can be effectively used for the determination of dynamic response due to earthquake and wind.