Identification of suspension bridge anchor behavior under service and seismic load conditions using the finite element method

Suspension bridges are vital infrastructure in an archipelagic country like Indonesia, which demands high structural reliability under complex geographic conditions. This research aims to numerically investigate the structural behavior of anchor connections on pedestrian suspension bridges to ensure their compliance with applicable safety standards. A two-stage comprehensive approach using Finite Element Method (FEM) is applied in this study. The global structural response was modeled using CSi Bridge software, while detailed micro modeling of the anchor joints was developed with ABAQUS/CAE which accommodates material non-linearity and contact interactions between surfaces. Seismic loading is simulated through time history analysis based on the local earthquake response spectrum. The simulation results show that under static and seismic conditions, the anchor connection remains within the elastic limit and meets all safety criteria required. Performance evaluation confirms that all anchor connection components satisfy the demand-capacity ratio requirements. This integrated FEM framework provides a robust methodology for planning and evaluating suspension bridge anchorage system in earthquake-prone regions, to improve structural reliability and safety.