FIELD INVESTIGATION OF SANTA FE RAILWAY PRESTRESSED CONCRETE GIRDERS

This report contains a description and analysis of a span consisting of four 71-ft 6-in post-tensioned, prestressed concrete girders tested under controlled operating conditions that include a range of train speeds between 5 and 55mph. Strains were measured on the top of curbs, bottom of the deck slab and the bottom of the four girders at the center line of span. Horizontal shearing strains were measured on both sides of one girder. Vertical accelerations were measured at the front and rear of the first unit of the test locomotive. All measurements were recorded under a test train consisting of four diesel locomotives. Recorded static flexural and horizontal shearing strains were less than the calculated values. There was little increase in recorded strains with increase in speed. The maximum recorded impact in flexure was 40 percent of that indicated by current specifications. All recorded impacts in horizontal shear were also less than specified, except for one value which was 56 percent greater. Composite action was attained between the curb and slab and between the slab and girders. The live load was distributed approximately equal to the girders.

• Corporate Authors:

  American Railway Engineering Association

  59 East Van Buren Street
  Chicago, IL  United States  60605
• Publication Date: 1961-10

Media Info

• Features: Figures; Photos; Tables;
• Pagination: p. 79-97
• Serial:
  • AREA BULLETIN
  • Volume: 63 N
  • Issue Number: 566
  • Publisher: American Railway Engineering Association

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridges; Concrete bridges; Girder bridges; Prestressed concrete bridges; Shear strength; Strain measurement
• Uncontrolled Terms: Bridge structures
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00052321
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Association of American Railroads
• Report/Paper Numbers: Proceeding
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 15 1974 12:00AM