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Numerical Analysis of Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders Failing in Shear

Abstract:

The safety of existing slab-between-girder bridges is subject to discussion in the Netherlands. Current design codes are conservative for shear-critical girders, and nonlinear finite element analysis is considered a more accurate assessment method. This paper investigates if the Dutch guidelines for nonlinear finite element analysis, which were largely based on laboratory experiments, can safely pbkp_redict the behavior of large-scale shear-critical post-tensioned girders. The simulation results are compared with experimental observations on girders taken from a demolished bridge (the Helperzoom bridge) after serving for more than 50 years. Pbkp_redicted and experimentally observed material properties are used as inputs for numerical models. For both, safe pbkp_redictions of inclined cracking and ultimate capacities are obtained. Parameter studies for load positions and prestress levels are also performed to get a deeper insight into the structural behavior of such girders. This work shows that the guidelines can be used for assessment.