The effect of dynamic train–bridge interaction on the bridge response during a train passage

This paper investigates under which conditions dynamic train–bridge interaction should be considered for the dynamic analysis of a bridge during a train passage. The results of a moving load model are compared to those of an analysis of dynamic train–bridge interaction considering different vehicle models with a varying degree of sophistication. The effect of several parameters related to the train and the bridge is studied. The ratio of the mass of the vehicle and the bridge and the ratio of the natural frequency of the vehicle and the bridge, the train speed and the damping ratio of the bridge are identified as significant factors that determine the effect of dynamic train–bridge interaction on the bridge response.