Thin-Wall Aqueduct Cyclic Loading Experiment and Finite-Element Analysis

This paper presents aqueduct and bracket experiments under the action of low frequency cyclic pseudo static loading. A three-dimensional FE model is developed to carry out the nonlinear elastic-plastic model which is combined the elastic model and the nonlinear multi-spring model. In this model the nonlinear hysteretic characteristic of plastic hinge is simulated by the equivalent multi-springs and the biaxial moment in the cross section of the structure and axial deformation are all considered. The hysteretic characteristics of the relationship between deformation and loading of aqueducts and brackets under the action of low frequency cyclic pseudo static loading are studied by model tests. Good correlation is observed between the experimental and analysis hysteretic curves.