Experimental Research on the Deformation and Bearing Characteristics of Rock Anchorage in Suspension Bridges

Rock anchorage is a new type anchorage structure of suspension bridge with complex stress mechanisms. In order to study the deformation characteristics and bearing capacity of the suspension bridge rock anchorage, the 1∶10 scaled model tests on site are carried out based on the Xihoumen Rail-cum-Road Bridge rock anchorage project. By sequentially conducting tests on 1.2P prestressing condition loading, 1P design load condition loading, and overload condition loading, the deformation distribution law of the rock anchorage under various working conditions are analyzed and the bearing characteristics of the rock anchorage are studied. According to the research, the deformation of rock anchorage mainly occurs in the two rock anchorage bodies and the rock mass area between them under various working conditions. And the deformation distribution curve is characterized by a bimodal shape centered on the rock mass between the anchorages. Under the design load condition, the maximum deformation of the actual bridge rock anchorage is 4.17 mm. Moreover, and the safety stability coefficient of the actual bridge rock anchorage is 11. Both deformation and safety stability coefficient of the suspension bridge anchorage are meet the requirements of the specifications. The research results may provide the experimental basis for the safety evaluation of the rock anchorage of the Xihoumen Rail-cum-Road Bridge, and also provide the technical reference for the research and application of rock anchorage related issues.