Abstract

In this paper, in order to dimension the position and the number of vertical reinforcement, several numerical linear static simulations of bending circular manhole cover of ductile cast iron (grade EN-GJS-500-7) with 600 mm diameter are performed. The analysis of displacement and stress using the finite element method in the software package Autodesk Simulation Mechanical were conducted. Verification of numerical results for the solution of thin circular plate was performed with analytical bending solutions. After checking the numerical procedure on the thin circular plate, two circular vertical reinforcements were added on the underside: internal and external. Numerical simulations investigated the influence of the inner circular reinforcement position on the strength of the circular manhole cover, while equivalent stresses followed by energy theory of strength (von Mises) were monitored. Since maximal equivalent stresses remain on the plate by varying the position of the inner circular reinforcement, simulations with added radial reinforcements are performed. Finally, by optimizing the number of radial reinforcements, the optimum plate design is chosen.