Behavior of Composite Box-Girder Bridges with Corrugated Steel Webs under Eccentric Loading

Abstract

The incorporation of corrugated steel webs in composite box-girder bridges has greatly improved their structural performance. However, the low axial stiffness of the shear-deformable corrugated steel webs also affects the structural behavior under the commonly encountered eccentric loading. In this study, experiments were carried out to investigate the behavior of this type of bridge under eccentric loading. Based on the experimental study, the basic assumptions in existing torsion theories are examined. In addition, the proposed formula to estimate the torsion constant and amplification factor considering the additional sectional normal stress due to distortion and warping under eccentric loading in design codes is also checked. From the study, some design recommendations are provided.