Load‐path analysis of transverse tensile stresses in multiple‐pile caps

Strut‐and‐tie modeling (STM) is commonly employed in the design of multiple pile caps in bridge structures. However, the construction of the model can be complicated by manual and experience‐related challenges. Based on load‐path modeling (LPM), this study presents analytical solutions for solving the elastic stress distribution in multiple‐pile caps with various structural configurations. This is accomplished by employing the transparent LPM approach that combines graphical and analytical features. It is found that the LPM is able to capture the distribution of transverse tensile stresses in the bottom region of multiple‐pile caps. At the same time, direct equations are developed to calculate the resultant transverse tension forces in multiple‐pile caps. The LPM results can be used as a quantitative basis for constructing strut‐and‐tie models. Finally, a worked example is provided to show the efficiency of the proposed LPM.