Performance analysis of rolling multi-lug cable-strut joints with bearings under extreme loads: Fid-Bau Portal

Performance analysis of rolling multi-lug cable-strut joints with bearings under extreme loads

Zhang, Ailin / Chen, Guanhua / Zhang, Yanxia / Luo, Chaoyi / Shangguan, Guanghao / Ma, Hao

Abstract The tensioning process in the traditional cable strut joint leads to significant prestress loss, thereby adversely affecting the structure's performance after tension forming. This paper proposes a rolling multi-lug cable-strut joint with bearings. To investigate the rate of prestress loss in the new tension joint, we conduct testing of joint performance in a dome model experiment. The mechanical properties of the joint in the overall structure of the cable dome under ultimate load are analyzed. The investigation shows that the new joint design significantly reduces prestress loss by more than 10% compared to traditional cable support joints. Afterward, the theoretical model of the RMCS joint is proposed by analyzing the force state and deformation of the dome structure space. The test data verify the model. Based on this theoretical model, the influence of prestress loss of different levels was studied. Under severe loading conditions, the path of force transfer through the joint is efficient and can prevent large fluctuations in the cable force of the structure. The cable force on both sides of the joint still fluctuates at the same frequency even under extreme loading of the dome structure.

Highlights • This paper proposed a new type of fully assembled rolling multi-lugs cable-strut (RMCS) joint with bearing. • This paper analyzes the mechanical properties of joints in the cable domes under ultimate loads. • The new joint design significantly reduces pre-stress loss by more than 10% compared to traditional joints. • The path of force transfer through the joint is efficient and can prevent large fluctuations in the cable force.