Experimental investigation and finite element analysis of a four-layered spiral strand bent over a curved support

Cable saddles are devices used to allow the cable to be continuous over a support. This paper presents the results of experimental and theoretical analyses of the spiral four-layered strand, with a construction of the 1 + 6 + 12 + 18 + 24 (1 × 61) round wires, subjected to tension and bending, where stresses expected to occur at the part of the strand over a saddle are investigated and compared with those under pure tension. In order to precisely model the complex geometry of the strand necessary for its finite element analysis, the geometric parametric equations have been implemented in the CATIA V.5 software to generate the 3D strand mathematical geometric model. To simulate and predict the behaviour of the strand subjected to tension and bending, a 3D model has been implemented in a finite element ABAQUS/Explicit software. An axial tension and bending static test was carried out on a full-size strand specimen that was fully representative from a point of view of used materials, details and anchorages. Comparisons of the resultant stresses in the selected positions of the strand (directly over and closely behind the saddle where the strand was subjected to tension and bending and apart from the saddle where the strand was subjected to pure tension) obtained by the proposed finite element analysis with those obtained by the test were presented. A good agreement between individual approaches was observed. Principally, the required functionality and performance have been implemented in the software and a good agreement with the test results was obtained.