Finite Element Bridge Analysis – ABAQUS

Overview

As part of my Strength of Materials coursework, I collaborated with a team to design and analyze a metallic arch bridge using the Finite Element Method in ABAQUS. The bridge was required to:

• Span a 50-meter gap
• Withstand a distributed train load of 150,000 N/m
• Satisfy constraints on stress, displacement, and total weight

Design Alternatives

We explored two design concepts:

• Through-arch bridge
• Deck-arch bridge (selected as final design)

Comparative simulations showed the deck-arch bridge was more efficient, with lower stress, reduced displacement, and lighter weight. To refine performance, we optimized truss placement and section sizes while balancing structural integrity and cost.

Results

Key Takeaways

• Strengthened skills in finite element analysis and structural optimization
• Gained experience in design decision-making under constraints
• Learned the importance of iteration and cost-performance tradeoffs in engineering design