Author(s): Hardik Dhull and Pradeep Kumar

Abstract: This research investigates the fatigue performance of highway bridges subjected to dynamic vehicular loading, with a focus on the combined impact of vehicle speed, surface roughness, and bridge type. Traditional static fatigue models often fail to account for dynamic amplification effects caused by real-world traffic conditions, leading to inaccurate service life predictions. To address this, a simulation-based methodology was employed using ANSYS for structural modeling, MATLAB for road profile generation, and Rainflow-Miner’s fatigue assessment techniques. A 15-meter single-span reinforced concrete bridge was analyzed under moving IS 72R truck loads across varying surface classes (A, B, C) and vehicle speeds (20-100 km/h). The study quantified dynamic amplification factors (DAF), stress range distributions, and fatigue damage indices. Results showed that higher speeds and poor surface conditions significantly reduced fatigue life, with DAF values reaching 1.65 and fatigue damage index nearing failure thresholds under Class C conditions.

DOI: 10.22271/27078329.2025.v4.i1a.43

Pages: 81-89 | Views: 33 | Downloads: 19

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