A Parametric Study on PSC Integral Bridge

Abstract

Integral Bridges are jointless bridges in which the deck is continuous and monolithic with abutment walls, and superstructure and substructure connections are monolithic. Bearing-type bridge observed unseating of the deck during the earthquake, necessitating replacement of the bearings and expansion joint, resulting in high maintenance costs. Due to their continuity, integral bridges are less expensive, possess an aesthetically pleasing appearance, and improve riding quality & low maintenance costs. To overcome the problem of the bearing bridge, an integral bridge has been proposed. A literature review of integral bridges and bearing bridges has been conducted and presented. To understand behaviour under different loading conditions, a comparative study was conducted for Integral bridges and bridges with bearings. For the present study, a 2-lane bridge with two spans and an individual span length of 30m is considered. PSC I-girder superstructure and RCC solid circular pier and wall-type abutment are used. For a comparative study, all properties and loadings are kept constant; the only change is made to the support condition between the superstructure and the substructure. A parametric study was conducted to analyse the PSC I girder Integral bridge with different skew angles, and also the effect of No. of Lanes. Analysis of these models has been done using Midas Civil as a computational tool.