Specifics of determining the tension forces of the cable-stayed bridge elements

Objective: to improve the method of determining the force in the cable stays by frequencies of natural transverse oscillations. Methods: synthesis and analysis of theoretical and experimental data, experimental methods for studying the structures. Results: in the paper, the problems of determining the tension forces of the cable stays by the frequencies of their natural oscillations are considered taking into account various factors (the design of anchor fastenings, the angle of inclination and sagging of the cable stay, the change of temperature). The estimation of possible errors in calculations is given. The degree of coincidence of the actual and design stress-strain state of the cable stays depends on the correctness of accounting the influence of the factors considered. The effect of the temperature change and the anchor fastening structure on the frequency of the natural oscillations of the cable stays has been experimentally tested. The recommendations on the determination of the forces in the cable stays by dynamic parameters are given. A method for controlling the tension forces of the cable stays and specialized software “Vant” (“Cable”) for automation of the measurement process are developed. The method has been tested on several bridge structures that have cable-stayed elements. Practical significance: the ability to use the developed method for controlling the tension forces of cable-stayed elements during the operation of artificial structures.