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EPSRC Reference: GR/L63310/01
Title: A STUDY OF THE PARAMETERS THAT INFLUENCE THE STRENGTH OF MASONRY ARCH BRIDGES
Principal Investigator: Hughes, Professor T
Other Investigators:
Davies, Professor MCR
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
British Waterways Pre Nexus Migration
Department: Sch of Engineering
Organisation: Cardiff University
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 01 October 1997 Ends: 31 May 2001 Value (£): 198,937
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Civil Engineering Materials
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
No relevance to Underpinning Sectors
Related Grants:
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
A study of the structural parameters that influence the strength of masonry arch bridges is proposed. The study uses the recently developed technique of soil/masonry interaction modelling at small scale using a centrifuge. The study recognises the need to quantify parameter variation influences in relation to the principal geometric shapes of the arch. Two arch shapes are therefore used as benchmarks, one a semicircular arch and one with a span/rise ratio of 4. Ten tests are to be performed on a 1/12th scale model of each geometry covering the influences of: defects including inter and through ring cracking, material properties such as masonry strength and backfill type, as well as overall effects including brickwork bonding and soil and arch ring thickness. The feasibility of modelling arch repair techniques will be undertaken via a parallel PhD programme. In addition serviceability tests will be performed by moving a wheel load, scaled to conform to an HGV axle, across each arch. The data from both serviceability and ultimate load tests on soil pressures, masonry and soil strains and overall movements will be included in a database. The interpretation of the results against existing methods of masonry arch bridge assessment will be undertaken.
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Organisation Website: http://www.cf.ac.uk