Field Test and Numerical Study of Three Types of Frame Beams Subjected to a 600 kN Anchoring Force

Abstract

Frame beams with anchor cables constitute a crucial method for slope reinforcement projects. With the development of fabricated structures, there has been an increasing focus on precast prestressed frame beams with anchor cables. This paper presents a field test conducted in Yunnan, China and numerical simulations to analyze the structure behavior of three types of frame beams with a 600 kN anchoring force: cast-in-situ frame beams, precast prestressed frame beams, and precast prestressed frame beams with connections. The results showed that: (1) Although all three types of frame beams met the design requirements for a 600 kN anchoring force capacity, the volume of precast prestressed frame beams constituted only 57% of that of the cast-in-situ frame beams. (2) The maximum bending moment for the precast prestressed frame beams with connections was 60 kN·m less than that for the cast-in-situ frame beams. (3) The field test results for bending moments exceeded the values obtained from the numerical simulation. When using a numerical simulation to study the bending moments of the anchor frame beams, it is acceptable to apply appropriate amplifications to the numerical results. (4) Among the three types of frame beams with cables, the precast prestressed frame beams with connections exhibited the best structural performance.