DOI: 10.3390/buildings16153045 ISSN: 2075-5309

Mechanism of Fatigue Fracture of Fork-Eye Anchor Heads Induced by Excessive Vibration of Stay Cables in Landscape Cable-Stayed Bridges

Ming Li, Fenli Song, Haikuan Liu, Jie Li

To address the severe threats posed by stay cable fractures, this study investigates a fatigue fracture of a fork-eye anchor head induced by excessive cable vibrations on a landscape cable-stayed bridge. A comprehensive methodology integrating field monitoring, theoretical analysis, and finite element simulation is employed to reveal the vibration characteristics, fatigue mechanism, and multi-factor coupled effects. Field tests identify wind-induced vibration and parametric resonance as the primary external triggers for fatigue damage. A simplified mechanical model of the fork-eye anchor head is established to evaluate the stress state under combined axial tension and bending moment. Fatigue analysis using the stress–life method elucidates how vibration-induced alternating stress significantly reduces the fatigue life of the connecting screw. The multi-factor coupled fracture mechanism is revealed, and practical mitigation measures including supplementary dampers and regular inspection are proposed. The findings provide a theoretical basis and engineering guidance for the design, maintenance, and safety assessment of similar landscape cable-stayed bridges.

More from our Archive