Analytical Models for Effective Flexural Rigidity of Concrete Segments and Joints

The transverse flexural rigidities of segments and joints have an important influence on internal force distribution of segmental ring. Computing models for force balances on joints of concrete segments are proposed to determine the ultimate bending moment of segment joint. The ultimate curvature, while the bending moment of segment joint reaches ultimate value, is analytically derived based on similarity criterions of strains in beam section. The effective flexural rigidity models of segments and joints are analytically proposed. The investigation shows that the effective flexural rigidity ratio between segment joint and intact segments ranges from 8% to 10%. The segment joint can be simplified as a hang in internal force computing of segment lining ring.