Field testing and finite element analysis of retrofit methods for distortion-induced fatigue in steel bridges

Abstract

<p>Crack formation due to out-of-plane distortion in the web-gap region has been a common occurrence in multi-girder steel bridges. These cracks result from the fatigue stresses that are induced in the web-gap due to cyclic diaphragm forces resulting from differential deflections between girders. The study presented herein investigated the different repair methods that can be used to control formation of these cracks. The study involved field testing and analytical modeling of a skewed multi-girder steel bridge designated as Design No. 1283, which is built on county road D-180 that crosses over I-380 in the state of Iowa. Different repair methods were suggested to reduce the induced stresses and strains in the web-gap under truck loads. These methods included loosening of the bolts connecting the cross-bracing to the stiffener, connecting the stiffener to the girder top flange or adding another stiffener on the opposite side of the girder web. The results indicated that the first two of these repair alternatives were effective in reducing induced stresses and strains in the web-gap region. The impact of web-gap height on the distortion induced in the web-gap was also studied. Furthermore, influence surfaces for different responses such as, web-gap strains, stresses, out-of-plane displacements at critical locations, and forces in the adjacent diaphragm were developed. Moreover, relationships between the relative out-of-plane displacements and vertical stresses induced within the web-gap region were also provided. These developed relationships and surfaces serve as a quick estimate of induced stresses at critical locations in other web-gap regions of the bridge.</p>