Use of CFRP overlays to strengthen welded connections under fatigue loading

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Alemdar F., Matamoros A., Bennett C., Barrett-Gonzalez R., Rolfe S. T.

Journal of Bridge Engineering, cilt.17, sa.3, ss.420-431, 2012 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 17 Sayı: 3
  • Basım Tarihi: 2012
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1061/(asce)be.1943-5592.0000230
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Bridge Engineering
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.420-431
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Fatigue, CFRP, Composite, Retrofit, Welded connections, Steel bridge, Resin
  • Yıldız Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Hayır

Özet

This study evaluates the performance of various methods to prevent and repair fatigue damage in welded connections, a recurring problem that affects a significant number of steel bridges. Experimental tests and analytical simulations were carried out to investigate the fatigue performance of coverplate specimens in which the welded connections were reinforced with carbon-fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) overlays. Specimens were loaded in three-point bending induced by a cyclic load to evaluate the change in fatigue-crack initiation life of the welded connections caused by the attachment of the CFRP overlays. Test results showed that when bond between the CFRP overlays and the steel was maintained, the reduction in stress demand was sufficient to extend the fatigue life of the welded connections from AASHTO fatigue-design Category E' in the unreinforced configuration to the infinite fatigue life range. Test results also showed that the fatigue strength of the bond layer was drastically improved by introducing breather-cloth material within the bond layer.