This paper aims to study the mechanical characteristics and load transfer mode of pylon anchor system with steel anchor boxes. Taking the north navigable bridge of Hangzhou Bay cross-sea bridge as an example, we analyzed the mechanical behavior and cable force distribution pattern influenced by the connections of steel anchor boxes using finite element analysis (ANSYS 11.0). The results show that when the connection of the steel anchor box is transformed, the transferring force of the anchorage segment and its components are changed slightly, the vertical force transmitted by the anchorage segment has no change, while the vertical force transmitted by the steel anchorage box and pylon wall are changed evidently. Whether the steel anchor box is connected has a great influence on the distribution laws of the stress on the steel plate and concrete pylon wall and the shear force on studs. The stress on the steel plate and concrete pylon wall and the shear force on studs are more evenly distributed in connected steel anchor boxes than those in separated ones. The stress distribution pattern of the side plate and diaphragm are impacted slightly by the connection of steel anchor boxes, while that of the end plate and pylon wall are impacted significantly.

steel anchor box connection  /  pylon anchor system  /  mechanical behavior