EFFECT OF CONTINUITY ON WHEEL LOAD DISTRIBUTION IN STEEL GIRDER BRIDGES

This paper presents the finite-element results of a study of the effect of continuity on wheel load distribution factors for 78 bridges. Typical two-equal-span, two-lane, straight, composite steel girder bridges were selected for this study. Bridge parameters such as span length and girder spacing were varied within practical ranges, and their influence on the bridge continuity was investigated. The selected bridge cross sections and wheel load positions ensured that interior girders carry more live loads than the outside girders. Results of two finite-element modeling techniques were used to predict wheel load distribution factors, which were similar to the results obtained using the new formula developed as a part of NCHRP Project 12-26. The findings of this research encourage the use of the new wheel load distribution formula with a 5 percent reduction when considering multispan steel girder bridges.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/32947845
• Corporate Authors:

  American Society of Civil Engineers

  345 East 47th Street
  New York, NY  United States  10017-2398
• Authors:
  • Mabsout, M E
  • Tarhini, K M
  • Frederick, G R
  • Kesserwan, A
• Publication Date: 1998-8

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: p. 103-110
• Serial:
  • Journal of Bridge Engineering
  • Volume: 3
  • Issue Number: 3
  • Publisher: American Society of Civil Engineers
  • ISSN: 1084-0702
  • Serial URL: http://ojps.aip.org/beo

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Composite structures; Finite element method; Girder bridges; Metal bridges; Steel bridges; Wheel loads
• Uncontrolled Terms: Continuity; Wheel load distribution
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Design; Highways; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00751496
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 29 1998 12:00AM