Load Carrying Capacity Analysis of Modern Steel Arch Bridges Under Static and Dynamic Wind Loads

The ultimate load-carrying capacity of steel arch bridges has been a critical area of research in bridge engineering, particularly with the increasing span lengths and the growing emphasis on limit state design methodologies. This paper revisits the classic analysis of the Lu Pu steel arch bridge under static wind loads, enhancing the study with updated methodologies and modern computational tools. The investigation explores both geometric and material nonlinearities while incorporating dynamic wind load effects, which were previously overlooked. By leveraging advanced finite element modeling techniques and incorporating real-world scenarios, such as varying wind intensities and loading sequences, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of collapse modes under combined dead, live, and wind loads. Key contributions of this research include: (1) the integration of dynamic wind loads alongside static analysis to reflect real-world conditions; (2) the application of modern material models that account for strain hardening and long-term fatigue; and (3) a comparative analysis of collapse modes under in-plane and spatial loading conditions. The findings reveal significant variations in load-carrying capacity based on wind load magnitudes and component effects, highlighting the critical influence of dynamic factors on structural stability. This paper serves as a resource for engineers and researchers aiming to design resilient steel arch bridges that withstand the challenges posed by modern environmental conditions.