Precast Concrete, L-Shaped Spandrels Revisited: Full-Scale Tests

This paper presents results from full-scale testing conducted on 4 precast, prestressed concrete L-shaped spandrels. The 4 L-shaped spandrels were each loaded through 12-ft-long, prestressed double tees that rested on the spandrel ledge at one end and on an independent support at the other. None of the beams were constructed with closed stirrups of mild-steel reinforcement. Rather, different arrangements of transverse L-shaped bars, welded-wire reinforcement, and longitudinal bars were provided to resist the shear and torsion induced in the spandrels. Shear and torsion forces were created by the double-tee reaction forces that were loaded eccentrically to the spandrels. The transverse and longitudinal reinforcement resisted the combined effects of vertical shear and out-of-plane bending of the web and satisfied minimum vertical hanger reinforcement requirements for ledge-to-web attachment. All beams sustained loads in excess of their factored design loads. Eliminating the need for closed reinforcement in slender spandrels would be of significant benefit to the precast concrete industry. This design approach would enhance constructability of slender members, which could increase plant productivity and reduce overall costs. Behavior of all 4 spandrels at various limit states is presented, including crack patterns and failure modes. Researchers used these test results to better understand the fundamental mechanism developed in the L-shaped spandrels to resist shear and torsion.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/12789822
• Authors:
  • Lucier, Gregory
  • Rizkalla, Sami
  • Zia, P
  • Klein, Gary
• Publication Date: 2007-3

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 62-76
• Serial:
  • PCI Journal
  • Volume: 52
  • Issue Number: 2
  • Publisher: Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute
  • ISSN: 0887-9672
  • Serial URL: http://www.pci.org

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridge engineering; Concrete tests; Limit state design; Load factor; Precast concrete; Prestressed concrete bridges; Prestressing; Reinforcement (Engineering); Structural members
• Uncontrolled Terms: L-shaped spandrels
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Design; Highways; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01046656
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Apr 11 2007 9:19PM