| Abstract: | This research study developed and evaluated prefabricated steel bridges made continuous for live load utilizing accelerated bridge construction (ABC). The project created a steel ABC transverse connection detail at the bridge piers that allows the structure to behave as simply supported for dead load and continuous for live load. This detail is relatively easy to fabricate, fast to assemble, safe to construct, cost-effective, and it provides long-term durability. The study began with a comprehensive literature review to capture the state of the art and the state of the practice relevant to the topics addressed in this project. A field assessment on the recent Texas Department of Transportation steel girder ABC project in Dallas was performed to understand the current construction method utilized, observe performance issues, and identify the baseline performance of the transverse connection between adjacent spans. An array of preliminary connection concepts was developed and evaluated by an industry panel. Four concepts were selected for detailed evaluation. Each was studied through a full-scale laboratory test program that included service-level testing, cyclic tests, and an ultimate strength test. The purpose was to demonstrate and validate the anticipated future performance along an inservice bridge. Numerical finite element models were created for the experimental test setups to validate the modeling techniques by comparing them with experimental results. Parametric studies were then carried out to investigate an array of various bridge geometries. Finally, a recommended steel ABC transverse connection detail was selected. This selection was supplemented with design guidance, a design example, and standard details. |
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