Numerical Train-Structure Interaction Analysis of a Floating Bridge and its Correlation with Full-Scale Test

This study pertains to the numerical and experimental studies of an unprecedented multi-movement rail joint designed for the Homer M. Hadley Memorial Bridge located in Seattle, Washington. The bridge carries the westbound and reversible lanes of Interstate 90 across Lake Washington and is the widest and fifth-longest floating bridge in the world. As a part of the light-rail extension program, Sound Transit proposed to install light-rail tracks on the bridge. The floating portion of the Hadley Bridge is constantly moving due to daily and seasonal changes in lake level and temperature, wind and wave action, and roadway vehicle traffic. These movements are accommodated with a novel rail joint, the Curved Element SUpported RAil (CESuRa). Following the initial design and analyses of the CESuRa, a set of tests were performed at the University of Washington to verify the behavior of different components of the rail joint. Based on the findings from the component tests and numerical analyses of detailed finite element model of the floating bridge including CESuRa, full-scale in-track testing of a prototype CESuRa was designed and performed to confirm the performance criteria. The full-scale experiment was also simulated with a FE model for calibration. The numerical results including train wheels reactions, CESuRa movements were compared with those of physical tests.