TOWARD DEVELOPMENT OF A STEEL BRIDGE SYSTEM - SIMPLE FOR DEAD LOAD AND CONTINUOUS FOR LIVE LOAD

A detailed market analysis was carried out to investigate trends in bridge construction in the mid-west region of the country. Results from this study show a decline in the use of steel bridges in the medium to short span ranges. An investigation, sponsored by the Nebraska Department of Roads, was implemented to develop a steel girder system that would offer better economy in these span ranges. Placing steel girders to behave as simple beams for non-composite dead loads and as continuous beams for composite dead and live loads can introduce some economy into steel girder bridges. The focus of this research was placed on the design of the continuity connection over the interior pier support. The analysis and design of the continuity connection over the interior support was completed using finite element analysis and engineering principles. A full-scale model of the connection was constructed and evaluated at various stages of the design life. A material cost comparison between conventional steel bridge systems and the proposed concept resulted in substantial cost savings with the proposed system.