Influence of Skew Angle on Static Behaviour of Rcc and PSC Slab Bridge Decks

Abstract

The effect of a skew angle on single-span reinforced concrete bridges and PSC bridges are analyzed using the finite-element method and the results are presented in this paper. Investigations are carried out on RC slab bridge decks and PSC bridge decks to study the influence of aspect ratio, skew angle and type of load. The finite-element analysis results for skewed bridges are compared to the reference straight bridges for dead load, IRC Class A loading. Also comparative analysis of response of skewed RCC and PSC slab bridge decks with that of equivalent right bridge deck is made. A total of 120 bridge models are analyzed. The variation of maximum longitudinal bending moment, maximum transverse moment, maximum torsional moment and maximum longitudinal stresses with skew angle is studied for all 120 bridge deck models. The FEA results of Dead load and Live load longitudinal bending moments decreases with increase in skew angle, where as maximum transverse moment increase with increase in skew angle and also maximum torsional moment increases with increase in skew angle and the maximum longitudinal stresses decrease with skew angle up to 30 degrees and there after increases. The benefit of pre-stressing is reflected in significant decrease in longitudinal bending moment and transverse moment and longitudinal stresses.