Abstract:To address the difficulties in transporting and hoisting segmented beams of wide bridge decks and the complexity of traditional multi-box section construction, the connection structures of post-installed cantilevers in large cantilever composite cross-section segmental beams are systematically studied. By sorting out and analyzing six types of key connection structures, five reasonable complete connection schemes are proposed. Combined with the finite element method, the performances of each scheme in terms of force performance, construction efficiency, economic indicators and adaptability to ultra-high gradient sections are analyzed and compared. The results show that the theoretical basis and practical guidance are provided for the connection design of large cantilever composite cross-section segmental beams. The recommended Scheme 1 exhibits the optimal comprehensive performance for straight and circular curved bridges, and Scheme 2 is suitable for the bridges with complex alignments by means of good load-bearing performance and adaptability to extremely high gradient sections.