Abstract

Results of the load tests of two steel through truss bridges were used to evaluate the assumptions used by BARS for the rating of this type of bridge. Based on the results from this study it is recommended that the Indiana Department of Transportation use the load distribution factors in the 1994 LRFD Specifications in the rating of these bridges. This will imply replacing the load distribution factors currently in BARS. The implementation of the new distribution factors will result in a less conservative rating of the longitudinal beams in this type of bridge. The increase in the allowed moments for the girders may lead to the truss members controlling the rating of the bridge. The experimental results from this study show that the current methods and assumptions adequately predict the capacities of the truss members.

Keywords

structural performance, deflections, truss, bridge, load test, rating, HPR-2100

Report Number

FHWA/IN/JHRP-96/03

SPR Number

2100

Performing Organization

Joint Highway Research Project

Publisher Place

West Lafayette, IN

Date of Version

1996

DOI

10.5703/1288284313146

Project Number

HPR-2100

File Number

7-4-35

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