1998 Catalog of Practical Papers
VIII. BRIDGE DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE
Click on a paper number to view a brief summary:

980561 “Corrosion Investigation, Evaluation, and Pier Replacement Scheme for the Long Key Bridge”
980606 “Inelastic Design and Testing of Steel Bridges Comprising Noncompact Sections”
980788 “Prestressed Concrete Plank Bridges - Diagnosis of Longitudinal Cracking in Topping Slabs”
980933 “Accounting for the Effects of Corrosion Section Loss in Steel Bridges”
981038 “The Effect of Corrosion on Crack Development and Fatigue Life”
981048 “Testing of a High-Performance Concrete, Single-Span Box Girder”
981302 Large Studs for Composite Action in Steel Bridge Girders”
981369 “Seismic Retrofit of the Vincent Thomas Suspension Bridge, Los Angeles, California”
981495 “Optimization of Structural Design for High Performance Concrete Bridges”
981529 “Seismic Strengthening of Column-Pier Cap Connections”







980561 “Corrosion Investigation, Evaluation, and Pier Replacement Scheme for the Long Key Bridge”

Abstract: In the late 1970’s, reconstruction of U.S. Highway 1 from Miami to Key West marked the first use of epoxy coated reinforcing (ECR) in several new bridges in Florida, including the Long Key Bridge. Since then, increasing corrosion has been found in all splash-zones. In 1996, a corrosion investigation was undertaken to determine the mechanisms and rate of corrosion, develop prognoses, and evaluate various courses of action. Conclusions: The corrosion conditions and rate were established by on-site and laboratory analyses. Historical records provided corrosion damage with time. Chloride penetration and corrosion damage were correlated with resistivity and other observations to give a relationship between the corrosive conditions and time to initial corrosion, first cracking and critical damage. Prognoses were developed and evaluated by life-cycle cost-benefit analyses for various courses of action, from "do nothing" to full-scale replacement of the piers for a service life in excess of 75 years. Contingency plans were prepared for pier replacement using precast "modified" V-piers to respect both the structural configuration and historical significance of this bridge. A temporary support system was designed for rapid removal and replacement of each pier while the structure remains open to traffic on this sole route to the Florida Keys. Corrosion of the nation’s infrastructure is a significant concern. It is useful to have many tools and techniques available to measure corrosion and make prognoses to the time when it may become critical for any given structure.
Alan J. Moreton, P.E., Figg Engineering, Inc. Tel: (850) 224-7400 Fax: (850) 224-8745. e-mail:
amoreton@figgbridge.com.

980606 “Inelastic Design and Testing of Steel Bridges Comprising Noncompact Sections”


Abstract: Inelastic design procedures allow the designer flexibility and the possibility of more economical designs by decreasing member sizes and eliminating cover plates and flange transitions at negative moment regions. Previous experimental results show that compact girders meet or exceed design limits and expectations when subject to design load levels. Current provisions, however, apply only to compact steel bridges. Expanding inelastic design provisions to include noncompact sections is desirable because of the wide use of plate girders with thin webs. General inelastic provisions applicable to compact and noncompact girders will create designs that are more consistent over the steel bridge inventory. Conclusions: Although the analytical tools exist, large-scale testing is necessary to validate theoretical engineering practice. Inelastic design procedures, currently limited to bridges comprising compact sections, offer the potential for significant cost savings by accounting for a better estimate of the true strength and behavior of the bridge. Also, inelastic techniques permit greater design flexibility such as optimizing material use by eliminating cover plates and flange transitions, and quantifying the redistribution characteristics for more consistent safety considerations. The proposed provisions allow the use of compact and noncompact girder sections, unlike current procedures that are limited to compact sections. The proposed LRFD inelastic design provisions are also greatly simplified compared to current inelastic design methods.
Bryan A. Hartnagel, Michael G. Barker, Department of Civil Engineering, E2509 EBE, University of Missouri – Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211. Tel: (573) 882-2467.

980788 “Prestressed Concrete Plank Bridges - Diagnosis of Longitudinal Cracking in Topping Slabs”


Abstract: Pre-tensioned concrete planks acting compositely with reinforced concrete topping slabs have been the standard method of short-span superstructure construction in New South Wales, Australia for nearly 30 years. Longitudinal cracking in the deck topping slab has been observed in relatively new plank bridges. The consequence of this cracking has been an increase in maintanence expenditure and a concern regarding a reduction in strength due to a smaller lateral distribution of load. An investigation was developed to study the cause and effects of the cracking. Conclusions: The study concluded that the cracking was most likely initiated by a combination of restrained thermal shrinkage stresses and the stresses induced by the passage of overloaded vehicles. The growth of heavy vehicle loads and the passage of overloaded vehicles early in the structure’s life has meant that the laboratory test program conducted in the 1970’s is no longer representative of current field conditions. As a consequence, the detailing of future plank bridges is being modified to cater to the changing traffic conditions. This paper is not included on the 1998 Preprint CD-ROM. Please contact author for information.
R.J. Heywood, R.J. Taylor, W.S. Roberts, Infratech Systems & Services P/L, Queensland University of Technology, P.O. Box 3699, South Brisbane, Queensland 4101, Australia. Tel: +61 7 3237 8100 Fax: +61 7 3237 8188. e-mail:
100242.1527@compuserve.com. D.J. Carter, Roads and Traffic Authority of NSW, P.O. Box K198, Haymarket, NSW 1238, Australia. Tel: +61 2 9662 5289 Fax: +61 2 9662 5748. e-mail: don_carter@rta.gov.au.

980933 “Accounting for the Effects of Corrosion Section Loss in Steel Bridges”


Abstract: Corrosion is a major cause of deterioration of steel bridges. In addition to material loss, it can cause unintended fixities, movements, distortions and fatigue cracks. The consequences of corrosion can range from progressive weakening of a bridge structure over a period of time, to sudden failures. The behavior of a structure affected by corrosion may be different from that assumed in its original design. Also, the capacity of members and connection details may be governed by failure modes different from those that controlled their original design. Therefore, the effects of corrosion damage need to be carefully assessed with respect to all likely failure modes, at the local, member and structure level. Conclusions: A systematic, multi-phase, approach for the evaluation of the effects of corrosion section loss on bridge capacity is presented. The first phase of the evaluation process is to identify the corrosion mechanisms, determine the extent of corrosion and estimate the possible consequences. The second phase of the evaluation process is a quantitative evaluation of corrosion effects. A two-level office evaluation approach is recommended. To obtain a direct measure of the effects of corrosion section loss, a residual capacity factor concept is proposed. Provisions for assessing the effects of uniform and localized corrosion with respect to strength and stability criteria are presented as an illustration of the proposed approach.
Zolan Prucz, Modjeski and Masters, Inc., 1055 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130. Tel: (504) 524-4354 Fax: (504) 561-1229. John, M. Kulicki, President and Chief Engineer, Modjeski and Masters, Inc., P. O. Box 2345, Harrisburg, PA 17105. Tel: (717) 790-9565 Fax: (717) 790-9564.

981038 “The Effect of Corrosion on Crack Development and Fatigue Life”


Abstract: Fatigue and fracture as well as loss of section due to corrosion are time-dependent performance characteristics that have the potential to jeopardize the integrity pof bridge structures. During the past 25 years these conditions have developed in a number of bridges reulting in a loss of service, costly repairs, and concern with the safety of these structures. The paper reviews experience with such time-dependent damage since 1970. Conclusions: Proper inspection, cleaning debris from corners and crevices and avoiding design features that promote corrosion grooving are all important steps to eliminating or reducung corrosion problems. The possibility of stress corrosion cracking in higher strength steels, including wires in cables and hangers merit special consideration. Very extensive corrosion, such as encountered on the Mianus River Bridge or the Williamsburg Bridge can create serious problems with the integrity of the structure, however, in most cases the general corrosion of bridge structures, if monitored at reasonable intervals and corrected as necessary should be considered a normal part of bridge service. This paper is not included on the 1998 Preprint CD-ROM. Please contact author for information.
John W. Fisher, Ph.D., P.E., Eric J. Kaufmann, Ph.D., Alan W. Pense, Ph.D., Lehigh University, ATLSS Engineering Research Center, 117 ATLSS Drive, Bethlehem, PA 18015-4729. Tel: (610) 758-3535.

981048 “Testing of a High-Performance Concrete, Single-Span Box Girder”


Abstract: As part of a multi-state research program on use of high-performance concrete (HPC) in highway bridges, a bridge originally designed as a three-span adjacent box girder bridge was converted to a single-span bridge by using 70 Mpa HPC and 15mm strands. As part of the research, a test beam was constructed and tested. Conclusions: Instruments placed in the beam prior to casting were used to measure transfer legnth, which was found to be approximately 1.22 m; larger than the 50 bar diameters usually found in the AASHTO code, but consistent with recent studies. After the beam concrete reached the required compressive strength, it was subjected to 1,000,000 cycled of fatigue at design load. The static and dynamic response of the beam did not change as a result of the fatigue loading. Finally, the beam was able to resist the required AASHTO ultimate moment without failure. It was found that the AASHTO cracking load was conservative for this beam, mostly because the measured modulus of rupture greatly exceeded the value assumed in the code. The behavior of the beam was successfully predicted using basic section analysis. This paper is not included on the 1998 Preprint CD-ROM. Please contact author for information.
R. Miller, B. Shahrooz, T.M. Baseheart, E. Eberenz, J. Jones, R. Knarr, R. Sprague, University of Cincinnati, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, P.O. Box 210071, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0017. Tel: (513) 556-3744 Fax: (513) 556-2599. e-mail:
rmiller@boss.ecc.uc.edu.

981302 “Large Studs for Composite Action in Steel Bridge Girders”


Abstract: The increasing traffic demand on U.S. bridges and the continuing use of deicing salts have caused increasing bridge deck deterioration which, in turn, raises the need for deck replacement. In areas of heavy traffic volume, deck replacement is often needed in a short period of time. Bridge deck removal can often be slowed due to the effort needed to remove the deteriorated concrete from around the connection mechanism required for composite action between the concrete deck and the girder top flange. A girder-to-deck- connection which facilitates rapid deck replacement is, therefore, a high priority. Conclusions: The tests confirmed that the proposed 31.8 mm diameter studs are an efficient replacement for the conventional 22.2 mm studs. The strength of the 31.8 mm studs is about twice that of the 22.2 mm studs. This would allow for fewer studs along the length of the steel girder which would decrease the effort of deck removal from around these studs, and the probability of damage to these large studs and to the girder top flange. Using alternate headed and headless studs may further facilitate deck removal. This paper is not included on the 1998 Preprint CD-ROM. Please contact author for information.
Hussam F. Kakish, Mantu C. Baishya, Maher K. Tadros, Civil Engineering Department, University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Tel: (402) 554-2820 Fax: (402) 554-3288. Darin L Splittgerber, HDR Engineering, Inc.. Tel: (816) 421-5070 Fax: (816) 421-5211.

981369 “Seismic Retrofit of the Vincent Thomas Suspension Bridge, Los Angeles, California”


Abstract: Seismic events release vast amounts of energy. To reduce damage during a seismic event, directing the earthquake forces away from the most vulnerable structural elements, through isolation and ductility provisions may be a more successful strategy than reinforcement for those forces. In places reinforcement would have been expensive or impossible. The retrofit of the Vincent Thomas Bridge illustrates methods to modify the bridge’s response behavior to reduce damage. The most critical elements are the cable bent and towers, as they support all the weight of the bridge. The cable bent was retrofitted by isolation and reinforcement, while the tower was made more ductile by eliminating local buckling. Viscous dampers were added to reduce the amplitude of motion of the suspended trusses, and clearances were given to accommodate the remaining motions without collision with the tower legs and cable bents. The suspended structure side spans were given hinges and friction connections that allow controlled damage while continuing to provide vertical continuity. The deck slab motion is limited to several inches relative to the trusses. Conclusions: ADINA proved to be an efficient tool for the nonlinear time history analysis. The simplified model proved ideal for parametric studies and the optimization of designs, whereas the detailed model most faithfully reproduced the behavior of the structure. There is uncertainty in predicting the behavior of a large and complex structure during a major earthquake. By improving the fundamental behavior of the structure there is greater confidence that the predicted response should be conserved through a broad range of seismic events. George Baker, Weidlinger Associates, 375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014-3656. Tel: (212) 367-2850 Fax: (212) 367-3030. e-mail: gbaker@wai.com. Tim Ingham, TY Lin International, 825 Battery Street, San Francisco CA 94111. Tel: (415) 291-3700 Fax: (415) 433-0807. e-mail: tylin1@ix.netcom.com. Dan Heathcote, California Dept. of Transportation, 1801 30 th Street, Sacramento CA 95816. Tel: (916) 227-8242 Fax (916) 227-8381.

981495 “Optimization of Structural Design for High Performance Concrete Bridges"


Abstract: For high performance concrete (HPC) bridge implementation to be successful nationally, the State DOT’s must see a benefit to its use. One of the significant benefits of HPC is its improved long-term performance. Although State DOTs are beginning to look at life-cycle costs, initial costs are still the basis for evaluation of cost-effectiveness. Because of this and the need to build and maintain more with less, HPC bridges must be designed and constructed such that initial costs are comparable or less than conventional concrete bridges. This can be achieved, even with the potentially higher unit costs of HPC, through optimization of the design and construction of HPC bridges. Conclusions: Optimization of a bridge means designing and building for the requirements of the specific bridge component (deck, beams, substructure) in its environment (moist, freeze-thaw, sulfate, etc.). HPC bridges should be designed and constructed using the improved performance characteristics of HPC. By doing this, initial costs can be comparable or less than conventional concrete bridges, even with the potentially higher unit costs of HPC. Updating of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) materials and structural specifications to incorporate the improved performance characteristics of HPC will facilitate the optimization of HPC designs and result in more cost-effective HPC bridges. Also addressed are issues of permeability, deck thickness, compressive strength, reduced number of required beams in design, manufacturer’s rules of thumb for increasing compressive strength, flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, shrinkage and creep, use of straight strands, variable camber, and site logistics.
Mary Lou Ralls, P.E., Texas Department of Transportation, Materials & Tests Division, 125 E. 11 th St., Austin, TX 78701. Tel: (512)465-7963 Fax: (512) 465-7999. e-mail:
mralls@mailgw.dot.state.tx.us. Ramon L. Carrasquillo, Ph.D., P.E., Construction Materials Research Group, Center for Transportation Research, University of Texas at Austin, 10100 Burnet Road, Bldg. 18-B, Austin, TX 78758. Tel: (512) 471-4585 Fax: (512) 471-4555. e-mail: ramonc@mail.utexas.edu. Ned H. Burns, Ph.D., P.E., University of Texas at Austin, (see above). Tel: (512) 471-1619 Fax: (512) 471-1944.

Back to Subject Index.-----Back to Top.

981529 “Seismic Strengthening of Column-Pier Cap Connections”


Abstract: Many bridges constructed in the 1960's in regions of high seismic risk have column-pier cap connections with inadequate column bar development and no shear reinforcement in the joint region. The study described in this paper focuses on highway bridges built on Interstate 80 in the Reno area, during the 1960's. Two 0.4-scale specimens representing the essential features of the column-pier cap connections in these bridges were constructed and tested. One specimen showed that the as-built specimen had little energy dissipation capacity and failed at less than 1 percent drift. A second specimen was used to test a potential strengthening technique. The technique included increasing pier cap depth, adding a concrete bolster to the joint, and placing a steel jacket around the column. Conclusions: After strengthening, a plastic hinge formed in the column, the joint damage was minimized, and the energy dissipation capacity increased by a factor of five. A conservative design approach was used to ensure success, but to remain cost effective and maintain ductility the strengthening scheme did not have large safety factors. The strengthening methods corrected problems with joint shear, column bar development, and low pier cap flexural strength. The methods are expected to work well on similar bridges with only changes in sizes and ratios. In some cases the as-built conditions may not require all aspects of the strengthening scheme. Not including part of the strengthening scheme could have large cost savings, especially in the case of the joint bolster, but it is difficult to know the entire effect on the system since only one strengthened test was performed.
David H. Sanders, M. Saiid Saiidi, Troy Martin, University of Nevada-Reno. Tel: (702) 784-4288 Fax: (702) 784-1390. e-mail:
sanders@unr.edu.


Back to Subject Index. | Back to Top.