Evaluation of Effective Width and Distribution Factors for GFRP Bridge Decks Supported on Steel Girders
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 11, Issue 4
Abstract
Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bridge deck systems offer an attractive alternative to concrete decks, particularly for bridge rehabilitation projects. Current design practice treats GFRP deck systems in a manner similar to concrete decks, but the results of this study indicate that this approach may lead to nonconservative bridge girder designs. Results from a number of in situ load tests of three steel girder bridges having the same GFRP deck system are used to determine the degree of composite action that may be developed and the transverse distribution of wheel loads that may be assumed for such structures. Results from this work indicate that appropriately conservative design values may be found by assuming no composite action between a GFRP deck and steel girder and using the lever rule to determine transverse load distribution. Additionally, when used to replace an existing concrete deck, the lighter GFRP deck will likely result in lower total stresses in the supporting girders, although, due to the decreased effective width and increased distribution factors, the live-load-induced stress range is likely to be increased. Thus, existing fatigue-prone details may become a concern and require additional attention in design.
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Acknowledgments
The authors would like to thank Martin Marietta Composites for providing the GFRP deck used in this study. Test results for the Fairground Bridge were provided by Bridge Diagnostics Inc., testing of the Boyer Bridge was funded by PennDOT and FHwA; and testing of the SC S655 Bridge was funded by SCDOT and FHwA. The authors also wish to thank Mr. Kevin Turner of Collins Engineers in Mt. Pleasant, S.C., for his help.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 11 • Issue 4 • July 2006
Pages: 401 - 409
Copyright
© 2006 ASCE.
History
Received: Apr 28, 2005
Accepted: Aug 3, 2005
Published online: Jul 1, 2006
Published in print: Jul 2006
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