Experimental and numerical comparison of the stress-strain state of an arch and a combined arch structure

Introduction. Experimental research projects of full-scale building roof constructions are labour-intensive, high-cost, and do not require placement in laboratories due to their large size. In this regard, tests of building constructions are often carried out on scale models. The operation of combined arch systems is poorly studied; calculation models of such systems require experimental confirmation. The presented experimental research project is aimed at obtaining data on the actual operation of the arch and a combined arch structure with radial ties for subsequent comparison of experimental data with calculation models.

Materials and methods. The experimental model is developed using mixed similarity at a scale of 1:10. The physical and mechanical parameters of the model materials were determined using standard methods. A method for creating a given prestress in the arch ties and a method for testing it are developed and described. The calculation models are implemented in the LIRA-SAPR finite element software package, considering the geometrically nonlinear structure operation, the stresses in the arch sections are determined using the “Section Designer” processor.

Results. Based on the results of experimental studies and numerical calculations, stresses and displacements in arch sections were obtained. The movements of the circuit, graphs of correspondence between experimental data and calculation results are shown. Directions for improving experimental models of such combined systems with ties are analyzed.

Conclusions. An arch combined system with radial ties allows to equalize the stress values in the arch belt in comparison with an arch without ties. The maximum stresses in the arch sections and the maximum deflections in the middle of the arch span are reduced by 3 times when tightening is installed.

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