Structural Assessment of the Glulam Arches at Stockholm Central Station

Abstract: The purpose of this master’s thesis was to investigate if suspension of heavy objectsis possible in the glulam arches at Stockholm Central Station. The main goal was todetermine the arches’ load carrying capacity’s utility ratio, in order to give knowledgeif additional loading can be added.The study included a thorough investigation of available blueprints and calculationreports established during and after the process of design and erection of the arches.In addition, an on-site-inventory was made to confirm and verify the studied material.A method to approximate semi-probabilistic material strength-properties, based onold deterministic material strength properties, was used.When the material had been summarized concluding geometrical attributes, loads, andmaterial properties a calculation model of the arch was developed. The global geometrydescribing the arch’s shape mathematically was established through measures onblueprints and analytical calculations in Mathcad. A finite element method (FEM) wasthen used to calculate reaction- and internal forces and buckling modes taking accountfor 2nd order effects. Once calculation of intrenal forces had been made, the structuralcapacity was checked analytically according to Eurocode’s failure criterion.The results showed that the arches do not fulfill required carrying capacity forEurocode’s symmetric- and non-symmetric distributed snow load. The failurecriterion not fulfilled were simultaneously bending and compression, lateral torsionalbuckling and simultaneously tension perpendicular to grain and shear.It is therefore concluded that suspension of heavy objects is not suitable with thepresent condition of the arch. In order to realize suspension, it is suggested thatreinforcement measures have to be conducted. It is also suggested that shear andiiiflexural carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) reinforcement would be a suitablemethod of enhancing the strength and stiffness of the arches, without disrupting theiraesthetics and integrity.