Horizontal bracing in steel I-girder bridges with composite concrete decks

Abstract

<p>This paper treats the use of horizontal trusses between the bottom flanges of new I-girder bridges, to create a box-like behaviour. In contrast to the general vertical cross frames of an I-girder bridge, the horizontal trusses bring along substantial torsional stiffness of the cross section of a bridge. The concept gives large advantages when it comes to fatigue caused by eccentric loading, since the I- girders will share the load more equally. The concept is exemplified by bridges in Finland, Guatemala and France, and some design aspects as well as practical aspects are discussed.</p>