Distribution Factors for Curved Continuous Composite Box-Girder Bridges
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 10, Issue 6
Abstract
The use of horizontally curved composite box-girder bridges in modern highway systems has become increasingly popular for economic as well as for aesthetic considerations. Based on a recent literature review on the design of box-girder bridges, it was observed that a simple design method for curved bridges, based on load distribution factors for stresses and shears, is as yet unavailable. This paper presents the results of an extensive parametric study, using a finite element method, in which the structural responses of 240 two-equal-span continuous curved box-girder bridges of various geometries were investigated. The parameters considered in this study included span-to-radius of curvature ratio, span length, number of lanes, number of boxes, web slope, number of bracings, and truck loading type. Based on the data generated from this study, empirical formulas for load distribution factors for maximum longitudinal flexural stresses and maximum deflection due to dead load as well as AASHTO live loading were deduced. An illustrative design example is presented.
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Acknowledgment
This research was supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 10 • Issue 6 • November 2005
Pages: 678 - 692
Copyright
© 2005 ASCE.
History
Received: May 29, 2003
Accepted: Aug 12, 2004
Published online: Nov 1, 2005
Published in print: Nov 2005
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