Fatigue Performance and Design Refmements of Steel Orthotropic Deck Panels Based on Full-Scale Laboratory Tests

Tsakopoulos, Paul A.;Fisher, John W.

  • Published : 20050900

Abstract

Plans to rehabilitate two suspension bridges in New York City resulted in the implementation of two independent laboratory fatigue tests on full-scale steel orthotropic deck panels prior to the final design and production of replacement panels. During the first test program, a prototype and an as-built section were tested. Fatigue cracking was detected at several types of fatigue sensitive welded connections, resulting in design changes, repair procedures, additional testing. Ultimately, this research led to a revision of the AASHTO LRFD design specificationson steel orthotropic decks. During the second test program, a prototype panel was tested. Crack initiation was successfully suppressed at fatigue sensitive connections, however cracks were detected in other connections where stresses were high as a result of the extreme axle loads that were simulated. Evaluations were made of the behavior, fatigue resistance, and adequacy of connection details applied to both test decks.

Keywords

References

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