Critical Truck Loading Pattern to Maximize Live Load Effects in Skewed Integral Bridges

Abstract

An integral bridge (TB) is one in which the abutments are cast monolithically with the deck to form a rigid frame structure. When the geometry and conditions do not allow for designing straight IBs, skewed IBs (SIBs) are designed. Current bridge design specifications are mainly developed for regular jointed bridges. Thus, provisions for SIBs have not been included in these specifications yet. Consequently, to determine live load effects in SIB components, many practicing engineers built a three-dimensional (3D) finite element model (FEM). In this study, various multiple design truck loading patterns are investigated to determine the most critical loading pattern producing the maximum live load effects in SIB components. The results of the analyses reveal that in the case of SIBs, different truck loading patterns arise when compared to bridges with no skew. Trucks that are placed diagonally across the width of the bridge are observed to produce the most unfavorable live load effects in bridge components.