General Information
Figure 1 shows a suspension bridge that is used by motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians.
| Type | Single-span suspension bridge |
| Main span | ≅ 95 m |
| Deck width | ≅ 1.5 m |
| Deck width to main span ratio | ≅ 1:63 |
| Pylon | Reinforced concrete (A-type, longitudinal) |
| Girder | Timber transverse beam |
Hanger Cable to Main Cable Connection
Figure 2 shows a hanger cable to main cable connection.
A main cable consists of three side-by-side placed steel wire ropes that are bound by U-bolt clamps. The hanger cable is connected to the main cable by the same U-bolt clamp; the hanger cable does not pass over the main cable.
Main Cables
Figure 3 shows the main cables in the main span region.
A twisted sector on the right main cable is noticeable.
Hanger Cables
Figure 4 shows a hanger cable.
The hanger cables are also connected to the road safety barrier cables by U-bolt clamps. Figure 5 shows a further hanger cable.
Hanger Cable Failure
Figure 6 shows a failed hanger cable.
The hanger cable failed in the U-bolt clamp region.
What are the main structural consequences?
Hanger Cable to Timber Girder Connections
Figure 7 shows a hanger cable to timber girder connection viewed from above.
The hanger cable passes through the girder through two vertical holes. The forces are transferred by direct (cable to girder) contact. Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-section of the above shown connection.
Over the girder are placed four lipped channels, and the roadway is made of steel checker plates. Figure 9 shows a further hanger cable to girder connection viewed from above.
The hanger cable is wrapped around the girder, which has a reduced cross-section, and fixed with a single U-bolt clamp. Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-section of the above shown connection.
