Optimization of Post-Tensioned Box Girder Bridges with Special Reference to Use of High-Strength Concrete Using AASHTO LRFD Method

With the Federal Highway Administration-mandated implementation of the LRFD specifications, many state departments of transportation (DOTs) have already started implementing LRFD specifications as developed by the AASHTO. Many aspects of the LRFD specifications are being investigated by DOTs and res...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Advances in civil engineering 2012-01, Vol.2012 (2012), p.1-8
Main Authors: Chang, Byungik, Mirtalaei, Kamal, Lee, Seungyeol, Leitch, Kenneth
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Box girders
Bridges
Bridges (structures)
Civil engineering
Concretes
Cost estimates
Design engineering
Design optimization
Design specifications
Load
Mathematical analysis
Mathematical models
Methods
Prestressed concrete
Specifications
Superstructures
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Summary:With the Federal Highway Administration-mandated implementation of the LRFD specifications, many state departments of transportation (DOTs) have already started implementing LRFD specifications as developed by the AASHTO. Many aspects of the LRFD specifications are being investigated by DOTs and researchers in order for seamless implementation for design and analysis purposes. This paper presents the investigation on several design aspects of post-tensioned box girder bridges designed by LRFD Specifications using conventional or High-Strength Concrete (HSC). A computer spreadsheet application was specifically developed for this investigation. It is capable of analysis, design, and cost evaluation of the superstructure for a cast-in-place post-tensioned box girder bridge. Optimal design of a post-tensioned box girder is achievable by correct selection of design variables. Cost evaluation of superstructures with different geometrical and material configurations has led to the development of optimum design charts for these types of superstructures. Variables used to develop these charts include, among others, span length, section depth, web spacing, tendon profile, and concrete strength. It was observed that HSC enables the achievement of significantly longer span lengths and/or longer web spacing that is not achievable when using normal strength concrete.
ISSN:1687-8086
1687-8094
DOI:10.1155/2012/673821