Multi-angle and nonuniform ground motions on cable-stayed bridges

Abstract

The definition of the spatial variability of the ground motion (SVGM) is a complex and multi-parametric problem. Its effect on the seismic response of cable-stayed bridges is important, yet not entirely understood to date. This work examines the effect of the SVGM on the seismic response of cable-stayed bridges by means of the time delay of the ground motion at different supports, the loss of coherency of the seismic waves, and the incidence angle of the seismic waves. The focus herein is the effect of the SVGM on cable-stayed bridges with various configurations in terms of their length and of design parameters such as the pylon shape and the pylon–cable system configuration. The aim of this article is to provide general conclusions that are applicable to a wide range of canonical cable-stayed bridges and to contribute to the ongoing effort to interpret and predict the effect of the SVGM in long structures. This work shows that the effect of the SVGM on the seismic response of cable-stayed bridges varies depending on the pylon shape, height, and section dimensions; on the cable-system configuration; and on the response quantity of interest. Furthermore, the earthquake incidence angle defines whether the SVGM is important to the seismic response of the cable-stayed bridges. It is also confirmed that the SVGM excites vibration modes of the bridges that do not contribute to their seismic response when identical support motion is considered.