Achieving sheet pile stability in bridge construction in Poland
About the project
Richter Associates embarked on a sophisticated engineering project involving the modification of a bridge structure. The task included significant alterations to the bridge's existing infrastructure, requiring detailed planning and execution. The project demanded a blend of innovative engineering techniques and precise structural adjustments, aimed at enhancing the bridge's functionality and safety. This endeavor showcased Richter's expertise in managing intricate engineering challenges and their commitment to delivering high-quality structural solutions.
Engineering challenges
The client required the installation of tie bars and removal of a wingwall for bridge abutment construction. Richter was tasked with a CAT III check for the stability of sheet piles in various temporary construction stages, including ground anchor installation. Additionally, an independent design check was needed for the permanent works designer's steel wailer design and details. This involved developing a construction sequence to retain the rail embankment, considering reduced stage digs for sheet pile cantilever and stability. Addressing local stress and buckling effects in steel wailer beams, especially at anchor support locations, posed a significant challenge. The complexity of the steel arrangement and potential for local effects necessitated the use of IDEA StatiCa for accurate modeling and analysis.
Solutions and results
The project initially involved design checks on Double S355 Parallel Flange Channel 300x90x41 wailer beams, using hand calculations and Mathcad software for bending, shear, and major bending analysis. However, due to the angled anchor support, local eccentricity issues arose. IDEA StatiCa FEM modeling was crucial in identifying peak stresses caused by this eccentricity. This led to the addition of local stiffeners to the structure and verification of welding requirements, in collaboration with the main designer and fabricators.
The application of IDEA StatiCa in this project extended beyond typical connection checks. Its use in analyzing local stresses for the section and in cladding brackets design illustrates its versatility. For cladding brackets, the software modeled responses and deflections, aiding in communication with fabricators and suppliers to determine the most effective fixing arrangements. This approach ensured safe and efficient design solutions for various façade locations, further demonstrating the software's sophisticated capabilities in addressing complex structural challenges.
About Richter Associates
Founded in 1990, Richter Associates specializes in temporary works design, although their wide-ranging expertise means they offer highly developed engineering services for all construction projects. With a wealth of experience working on buildings, bridges, geotechnical works, marine work, refurbishments, railways, infrastructure, and demolition, there is no construction challenge they cannot accept. They are known for taking on and delivering the complex projects that others cannot, and their company culture is a driving force behind this success. They bring together the engineers and administrators, and partners and practices that make up their team into a unified, deeply collaborative organization.
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