Experimental Investigation of a Full-Scale Spread Slab Beam Bridge
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 21, Issue 11
Abstract
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) uses precast prestressed concrete slab beams in a side-by-side configuration for short-span bridges in low-clearance areas. To reduce costs, a new bridge type called a spread slab beam bridge was recently developed using the same concept as spread box beam bridges in which the beams are spaced apart. A full-scale spread slab beam bridge was constructed and tested under static and dynamic vehicular loads to evaluate constructability and structural performance. The load-distribution behavior was investigated through field testing, and experimental live-load distribution factors (LLDFs) were evaluated using alignments that provided the most adverse loading cases. The measured response provides detailed experimental data to validate computational modeling techniques for this new class of bridge systems. Research findings show that spread slab beam systems provide a viable construction method for short-span bridges, and that the desired performance was achieved for in-service loading. During field testing, the beam live-load deflections were within the design limits, and no significant cracking or reduction in the overall stiffness of the bridge was observed.
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Acknowledgments
This research was supported by the TxDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) as part of TxDOT Project 0-6722. The authors are grateful to the TxDOT personnel who provided invaluable assistance, including Wade Odell, Mark Steves, John Holt, Tommy Abrego, Rex Costley, Bernie Holder, Manuel Padron, Jefferey Tomkins, Aaron Bloom, John Grissom, and Lewis Gamboa. The TTI Construction Group at Riverside, led by Gary Gerke and Eddie Haug, provided invaluable advice and assistance during the Riverside Bridge construction. The authors also thank the many graduate and undergraduate students who assisted in the construction of the Riverside Bridge.
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© 2016 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Nov 2, 2015
Accepted: May 10, 2016
Published online: Jun 27, 2016
Published in print: Nov 1, 2016
Discussion open until: Nov 27, 2016
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