Numerical Simulation of Bridge Damage under Blast Loads

Abstract:- The numerical simulation of the structural damage of a steel truss bridge subjected to blast loading with the aid of a hydrocode is presented in this paper. A three-dimensional nonlinear finite element model of an actual bridge has been developed based on the drawing design of the Minpu II Bridge in Shanghai. The effects of mesh size on pressure distribution produced by explosions are also studied. Through the comparison between the calculation results and the experimental values, the reliability of the calculation is validated. All the process from the detonation of the explosive charge to deck crack, including the propagation of the blast wave and its interaction with the structure is reproduced. The numerical results show the damage of bridge parts and provide a global understanding of bridge under blast loads. It may be generated to supplement experimental studies for developing appropriate blast-resistant design guidelines for bridges in the future