Improved Load Rating of Reinforced-Concrete Box Culverts Using Depth-Calibrated Live-Load Attenuation
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 21, Issue 12
Abstract
This paper describes depth-calibrated live-load attenuation for the load rating of reinforced-concrete box culverts using production-simplified models. In-plane depth calibration is accomplished using a production-simplified, two-dimensional, linear-elastic, finite-element, soil-structure interaction model with results compared with those from the recommended direct-stiffness, structural-frame model. Out-of-plane live-load attenuation considers each potential critical section depth rather than the cover soil depth only. The effectiveness of depth calibration is assessed by comparing predicted live-load moments obtained from the models versus measured live-load moments obtained from full-scale culvert load tests. A load rating case study illustrates the potential for improved alignment between load rating and observed performance. Findings show that depth calibration improves current load rating practice by increasing the accuracy and precision of live-load demand predictions, particularly in culvert walls and bottom slabs. Use of the depth-calibrated soil-structure model helps close the disconnect between calculated load rating and observed structural performance by more accurately predicting both the location of the weakest critical section and the live-load magnitude. The depth-calibrated soil-structure model also moves the predicted live load toward more uniform accuracy and precision across all sections.
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Acknowledgments
The authors thank the Bridge Division of the Texas DOT for sponsoring the research study that yielded the data that form the basis for this paper.
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Information & Authors
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Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 21 • Issue 12 • December 2016
Copyright
© 2016 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Nov 30, 2015
Accepted: May 25, 2016
Published online: Aug 1, 2016
Published in print: Dec 1, 2016
Discussion open until: Jan 1, 2017
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