Carbon network arch - lessons from the first use of carbon network cables

The decision to use carbon cables for the hangers of the network arch of the light rail bridge Stadtbahnbrucke was originally based on the extraordinarily good fatigue strength and the resulting possible reduction of the sections. It was only during further planning that the potential of this solution also became apparent in terms of the overall load-bearing behavior of the network arch system due to the equalization of the hanger forces, the avoidance of hangers slackening, and the advantageous dynamic properties of the lightweight, highly prestressed tensile elements. In addition to the previously published articles on the design and load-bearing behavior of the light rail bridge, the load-bearing principle of the carbon network arch, and its fabrication and erection, this contribution will focus on the carbon hangers and their anchorages to the arch and deck.