The detailed design of steel bridges requires thorough structural analysis, especially in complex hydraulic contexts. The new Barberino bridge over the Trebbia River in the municipality of Bobbio (PC) is a prime example of a highly technical infrastructure project developed by Incide and published as a case study by IDEA StatiCa.
The Trebbia is characterised by discontinuous and cyclically significant floods. The structural choice therefore fell on a Corten steel arch bridge, with a span of approximately 75 metres and an arch height of approximately 11 metres. The configuration allows the bridge to rest exclusively on the two side abutments, eliminating intermediate piers in the riverbed and reducing interference with flood flow.
An arch structure of this scale generates complex stress states, particularly in the connections between the arch, deck and bracing systems. These areas are subject to combined bending, shear and torsion forces that require detailed analysis.
The use of IDEA StatiCa Steel software made it possible to accurately analyse the highly stressed node connections. Through detailed modelling of the joints, it was possible to:
- assess the actual distribution of stresses;
- verify the strength of the components in accordance with regulations;
- optimise plates, stiffeners and bolting;
- ensure reliability at the most critical points of the structure.
The local verification of connections, integrated with the overall model of the structure, is a crucial step in ensuring adequate structural performance throughout the entire life cycle of the infrastructure.
The design of the new Barberino bridge was published as a case study by IDEA StatiCa and presented at the FABRE Conference, the technical event dedicated to existing bridges, viaducts and tunnels in the fields of research, innovation and applications.
