Abstract

Network arches are tied arch bridges with inclined hangers, which have multiple intersections. In the last five years there has been built a significant number of network arch bridges, maybe initiating a turning away from the traditional tied arches with vertical hangers. When introducing new structures it is important to understand well its structural behavior in order to assure the usual safety and quality level. In arches, the buckling behavior is of particular interest. The existent solution does not explain the in-plane buckling of network arches to a satisfying extent, limiting its application range to a special case. A general parametric study of the in-plane buckling leads to a concept, which allows considering the problem as a curved compression strut with radial elastic support. Then, a simple analytical formula is derived that predicts the critical buckling load and buckling mode for in-plane buckling of network arch bridges with an error of less than 5%.