INVESTIGATION OF PRECAST AND PRESTRESSED CONCRETE BRIDGE FOR LOW-VOLUME ROADS

Multibeam bridges constructed from precast and prestressed concrete bulb T-sections were evaluated through field observations and analyzed by using the finite element method. Approximately 50 bridges were inspected in the states of Washington and Idaho, and data for over 100 bulb T-systems were obtained for evaluation. When agencies that had constructed these bridges were interviewed, their reaction to the bulb T-bridge system was positive because of its ease of erection, low installation costs, and low maintenance costs. The field observations of existing bridges revealed some problems. Most of these problems were eliminated in later designs by careful follow-up work carried out by the producers and most agencies. Cost data on 81 bridges showed that the average cost per square foot (square meter) of deck has been reduced by about 50 percent since 1963. Several finite element models were used to investigate the effect of the lateral load transfer devices. These analyses served to quantitatively illustrate the major role played by both the weld tie plate and the grout keyway in transferring the load laterally; furthermore, the calculations revealed that the diaphragms contribute a relatively minor amount of stiffness to the system.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/0360859X
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Proceedings of a work shop held June 16-19, 1975, in Boise, Idaho by the Transportation Research Board.
• Corporate Authors:

  Transportation Research Board (TRB)

  Washington, DC   
• Authors:
  • Sack, Ronald L
• Publication Date: 1975

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 105-115
• Monograph Title: Low-volume roads: proceedings of a workshop held June 16-19, 1975, in Boise, Idaho
• Serial:
  • Transportation Research Board Special Report
  • Issue Number: 160
  • Publisher: Transportation Research Board
  • ISSN: 0360-859X

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridge construction; Bridge foundations; Bridges; Construction; Finite element method; Low volume roads; Precast concrete; Prestressed concrete; T beams
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Highways;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00142698
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS, TRB, ATRI
• Created Date: Feb 1 1977 12:00AM