Examination of Response of a Skewed Steel Bridge Superstructure During Deck Placement

Abstract

The response of a 74.45-m (244-ft 0-in.) skewed bridge to the placement of the concrete deck was monitored to compare measured and predicted behavior. This comparison was completed to ( a) determine theoretical deflections and rotations with analytical models for comparison to actual deformations monitored during construction; ( b) compare the results of various levels of analysis to determine the adequacy of the methods; and ( c) examine variations on the concrete placement sequence to determine the most efficient deck placement methods. Two levels of analysis were used to achieve the objectives. Level 1 was a two-dimensional finite element grillage model analyzed with STAAD/Pro. Level 2 was a three-dimensional finite element model analyzed with SAP2000. These studies are discussed and findings are presented.