Practical crack control during the construction of precast segmental box girder bridges

Abstract

Cracks that occurred in the bottom slab of a precast segmental bridge were investigated through a construction sequence analysis, which revealed that the cracks were caused by excessive deformation during temporary post-tensioning while joining the segments. In addition, a parametric study was performed to evaluate the effects of the prestressing sequence, bottom slab thickness, and position of the prestressing anchors. The structural behavior of the girder sections was greatly affected by the thickness of the bottom slab and the position of prestressing anchors, but not by the prestressing sequence. Based on the results, a construction method that prevents the cracks is proposed. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.