Finite element analysis is carried out using a number of computer packages that are widely available. Ansys will be used to create a simple arch barrel model which will progressively become more complex as this study progresses.
Finite element analysis allows 2D and 3D elements and the complex relationships between materials to be represented. It allows each mode of failure of a masonry arch bridge to be considered. Previous studies have been conducted using Ansys 9.0 in an attempt to model the soil arch interaction in masonry arch bridges (Wang, 2007).
From this study the following conclusions were drawn:
- Under service loads the soil arch interaction is limited to soil surrounding the arch barrel
- Stiffness of the arch and the soil is important when considering the soil-arch interaction
- The FE model is dependent on the density, cohesion, angle of friction and dilatancy of the backfill
For the purpose of this study the soil-arch interaction will be investigated further based on the parameters set by previous studies.
