Live-Load Distribution Factors for Prestressed Concrete, Spread Box-Girder Bridge
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 11, Issue 5
Abstract
This study presents an evaluation of shear and moment live-load distribution factors for a new, prestressed concrete, spread box-girder bridge. The shear and moment distribution factors were measured under a live-load test using embedded fiber-optic sensors and used to verify a finite element model. The model was then loaded with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation (AASHTO) design truck. The resulting maximum girder distribution factors were compared to those calculated from both the AASHTO standard specifications and the AASHTO LRFD bridge design specifications. The LRFD specifications predictions of girder distribution factors were accurate to conservative when compared to the finite element model for all distribution factors. The standard specifications predictions of girder distribution factors ranged from highly unconservative to highly conservative when compared to the finite element model. For the study bridge, the LRFD specifications would result in a safe design, though exterior girders would be overdesigned. The standard Specifications, however, would result in an unsafe design for interior girders and overdesigned exterior girders.
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Acknowledgments
The authors gratefully acknowledge the New Mexico Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration for providing the funds for this research project.
References
AASHTO. (1996). Standard specifications for highway bridges, 16th Ed., Washington, D.C.
AASHTO. (1998). AASHTO LRFD bridge design specifications, 2nd Ed., Washington, D.C.
Hughs, E. A. (2004). “Live-load distribution factors for a prestressed concrete, spread box-girder bridge.” New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, N.M.
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Lowe, E. R. (2003). “Finite element analysis to determine shear and moment distribution factors for girders in the future I-10 bridge over University Avenue.” New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, N.M.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 11 • Issue 5 • September 2006
Pages: 573 - 581
Copyright
© 2006 ASCE.
History
Received: Jan 27, 2005
Accepted: Apr 20, 2005
Published online: Sep 1, 2006
Published in print: Sep 2006
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