Anticipated and actual performance of composite girder with pre-stressed concrete beam and RCC top flange

• Published in: Structural engineering and mechanics Vol. 61; no. 1; pp. 117 - 124
• Main Authors: Gurunaathan, K, Johnson, S. Christian, Thirugnanam, G.S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Korean
• Published: 2017
• Subjects: road bridge girder; deflection; pre-stressed concrete; load test; mid span; composite girder; recovery
• ISSN: 1225-4568; 1598-6217

Load testing is one of the important tests to determine if the structural elements can be used at the intended locations for which they have been designed. It is nothing but gradually applying the loads and measuring the deflections and other parameters. It is usually carried out to determine the behaviour of the system under service/ultimate loads. It helps to identify the maximum load that the structural element can withstand without much deflection/deformation. It will also help find out which part of the element causes failure first. The load-deflection behaviour of the road bridge girder has been studied by carrying out the load test after simulating the field conditions to the extent possible. The actual vertical displacement of the beam at mid span due to the imposed load was compared with the theoretical deflection of the beam. Further, the recovery of deflection at mid span was also observed on removal of the test load. Finally, the beam was checked for any cracks to assert if the beam was capable of carrying the intended live loads and that it could be used with confidence.