Probabilistic prediction of fatigue damage of HSS structures: Initial study.

In the construction of steel structures and especially bridges, the use of high-strength steel (HSS) has been increasing in recent decades. The use of steel with a higher yield strength allows the design of slimmer as well as more aesthetic constructions. Design often leads to cost and material savings. In cases where the ultimate limit state of the structure is not a decisive factor of the design (but on the contrary the serviceability limit state, dynamic behavior of the structure, stability or fatigue of the material), the advantage of HSS becomes questionable. In such cases, the resulting resistance of the HSS structure is affected mainly by fatigue resistance. The article is focused on the initial study of fatigue damage prediction of HSS structures using linear fracture mechanics and probabilistic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]