The Computer Analysis of Orthotropic Steel Plate Superstructures for Highway Bridges. Volume I. Comparison with Conventional Designs

摘要

Four orthotropic plate bridge deck designs were performed with the full utilization of newly developed electronic computer programs together with conventional construction bridge designs for 80 feet span, 171 feet span, 171-234-171 feet spans, and 280-350-280 feet spans. The result of cost comparison for the eight bridge designs shows that for modern short span highway bridges, the introduction of orthotropic plate design of the superstructure can be more economical above 130 feet span length than the conventional bridge design. Additional savings might accrue in favor of the orthotropic bridges by using less expensive substructures, saving by lesser maintenance for steel decks, and standardizing details to fabricating procedures. (Author)