Advanced structural modelling for the design and construction of the Constitución de 1812 cable-stayed Bridge over the Cadiz Bay

Abstract

At the design stage of the cable-stayed bridge, and more so during the construction process, it was necessary to develop a series of specific analyses to take into account the three-dimensional configuration of the structure. Although initially every element was designed according to lineal elastic regimen, during construction, geometric non-linearity was considered to minimize reinforcements due to the increase of loads, and material non-linearity to assess already built elements, considering local yielding at ultimate limit state.Additionally, several analyses were carried out to optimize the construction cycle and to calibrate geometric control models.Finally, two dynamic studies have been included, aerolastic stability of the stays and coupling oscillations phenomenon occurred during the lifting of a segment from a barge.