Evaluation of failure mode of tunnel-type anchorage for a suspension bridge via scaled model tests and image processing

In this study, the pull-out behavior of a tunnel-type anchorage for suspension bridges was investigated using experimental tests and image processing analyses. The study focused on evaluating the initial failure behavior and failure mode of the tunnel-type anchorage. In order to evaluate the failure mode of tunnel-type anchorage, a series of scaled model tests were conducted based on the prototype anchorage of the Ulsan Grand Bridge. In the model tests, the anchorage body and surrounding rocks were fabricated using a gypsum mixture. The pull-out behavior was investigated under plane strain conditions. The results of the model tests demonstrate that the tunnel-type anchorage underwent a wedge-shaped failure. In addition, the failure mode changed according to the differences in the physical properties of the surrounding rock and the anchorage body and the size of the anchor plate. The size of the anchor plate was found to be an important parameter that determines the failure mode. However, the difference in physical properties between the surrounding rock and the anchorage body did not affect its size. In addition, this study analyzed the initial failure behavior of the tunnel-type anchorage through image analysis and confirmed that the failure was sequentially transferred from the inside of the tunnel to the surrounding rock according to the image analysis. The reasonable failure mode for the design of the tunnel-type anchorage should be wedge-type rather than pull-out type.