Prestressing Optimization and Local Reinforcement Design for a Mixed Externally and Internally Prestressed Precast Segmental Bridge

Abstract

The precast segmental construction is advantageous for rapid erection, high quality of concrete segments, and minimal disturbance to traffic. This paper compares two different tendon layouts of a segmental bridge erected by the span-by-span method. These comparisons include the stress analysis based on the 14-degrees of freedom (DOF) spatial beam model that considers warping, construction speed, and constructability. A simplified two-dimensional (2D) planar model for the reinforcement design of a rib deviator was proposed. The tensile stress region method (TSRM) was applied in the reinforcement design of the diaphragm in this type of bridge; thus the original reinforcement design was optimized, which can be useful in the design for structures of the same type.