This report documents the finite element analysis of a bolted field splice connection from a hypothetical three-span continuous bridge with back spans 234 ft long, and a 300-ft center span. The connection was designed using a traditional approach and then by using a new simplified method that required fewer bolts for the web splice component. The results of the analysis demonstrated the efficacy of the new design method in that it did not result in overstressing of the girder or bolts at the strength limit state. In part because of this work, the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials voted in June 2016 to adopt a new design method for the design of bolted connections for steel bridges.
Steel twin tub girder (STTG) bridges (Figure 1) are a popular choice for dealing with long-spanned bridges in Texas, especially when tight-radii curve...
Two-girder steel bridges are classified as fracture critical bridges based on the definition given in the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications. In...
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United States Department of Transportation
[PDF-7.10 MB]
