ANALYSIS OF HORIZONTALLY CURVED BRIDGES USING SIMPLE FINITE-ELEMENT MODELS

A series of horizontally curved bridges were analyzed using simple finite-element models. The analyses included using a typical truckload and also the dead load as the primary forces on bridges. In each analysis, the behavior of bridges was investigated, and the major internal forces developed in members were determined. Specifically, an increase in bending moment and the existence of a torsional moment in cases where the horizontal angle of curvature is large (about 20-30 deg) was observed. The significance of these moments, compared with the maximum bending moment of a comparable straight bridge, was noted. Bridges used in the analysis were assumed to be composed of single spans with about 30.5-m (100-ft) span lengths (the chord length was set at 30.5-m for all bridges), steel girders, and an 203-mm (8-in.) reinforced concrete slab. The finite-element analyses consisted of a three-dimensional idealization using simple beam elements to model top and bottom flanges of the girders and plate bending elements modeling the girder webs and the slabs. The analyses revealed that this simple modeling could effectively be used in analyzing curved bridges. The analyses showed that the bending moment in girders of a curved bridge can be about 23.5% higher compared with moments in girders of a straight bridge of similar span and design configuration. As a result of the curved geometry of the bridge, a torsional moment is developed in the girders. The magnitude of this moment was found to be about 10.3 percent of the maximum bending moment of a comparable straight bridge.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/10840680
• Corporate Authors:

  American Society of Civil Engineers

  1801 Alexander Bell Drive
  Reston, VA  United States  20191-4400
• Authors:
  • DeSantiago, E
  • Mohammadi, J
  • Albaijat, HMO
• Publication Date: 2005-2

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: p. 18-21
• Serial:
  • Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction
  • Volume: 10
  • Issue Number: 1
  • Publisher: American Society of Civil Engineers
  • ISSN: 1084-0680
  • Serial URL: http://ascelibrary.org/loi/ppscfx

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bearing capacity; Bending moments; Bridge design; Curved beams; Curved bridges; Finite element method; Girder bridges; Reinforced concrete; Torsional strength
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Design; Highways; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00986533
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Feb 22 2005 12:00AM