Potential Improvement in Rating Factors of Concrete T-Beam Bridges through Refined Analysis: Evaluation of Distribution Factors
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 27, Issue 9
Abstract
This study explores the use of refined analysis methods to potentially increase load ratings of concrete T-beam bridges by obtaining a decrease in live-load distribution factors. The studied T-beam bridges are vulnerable to posting under consideration of the new federal regulations and when using conventional, simplified equations for load distribution factors. Finite-element models for a total of 25 in-service bridges were developed and analyzed under different vehicle loadings, including special hauling vehicles (SHVs). The effect of transverse positioning of the vehicle load on the computation of the distribution factors was also considered. The moment and shear effects in each girder were extracted and the distribution factors for the interior and exterior girders of the selected bridges were computed. These distribution factors were compared with those obtained from the AASHTO code-specified equations. The results were used to develop regression models to predict the percent change in distribution factors if a refined analysis is implemented. Furthermore, a support vector machine (SVM) is used to identify the governing truck type based on geometrical properties of bridges. Results indicate that moment distribution factors obtained from refined analysis will likely improve rating factors for SHVs, while the shear distribution factors will likely be larger.
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Data Availability Statement
Some data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request, such as detailed information of the calculated distribution factors, the distribution factors computed under each vehicle loading and each loading position, and detailed information on the SVM analysis.
Acknowledgments
This work was part of a project sponsored by the VDOT. The contents of this paper reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the presented data, but the contents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the VDOT.
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Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 27 • Issue 9 • September 2022
Copyright
© 2022 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Oct 10, 2021
Accepted: May 15, 2022
Published online: Jul 15, 2022
Published in print: Sep 1, 2022
Discussion open until: Dec 15, 2022
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