Precast Concrete Elements for Accelerated Bridge Construction Final Report, Volume 1-1. Laboratory Testing of Precast Substructure Components: Boone County Bridge: TR-561, January 2009

(2009) Precast Concrete Elements for Accelerated Bridge Construction Final Report, Volume 1-1. Laboratory Testing of Precast Substructure Components: Boone County Bridge: TR-561, January 2009. Transportation, Department of

Preview	PDF TR-561_Vol_1.pdf File Size:11MB
Preview	PDF TR-561 Tech Brief.pdf File Size:628kB

Abstract

In July 2006, construction began on an accelerated bridge project in Boone County, Iowa that was composed of precast substructure elements and an innovative, precast deck panel system. The superstructure system consisted of full-depth deck panels that were prestressed in the transverse direction, and after installation on the prestressed concrete girders, post-tensioned in the longitudinal direction. Prior to construction, laboratory tests were completed on the precast abutment and pier cap elements. The substructure testing was to determine the punching shear strength of the elements. Post-tensioning testing and verification of the precast deck system was performed in the field. The forces in the tendons provided by the contractor were verified and losses due to the post-tensioning operation were measured. The stress (strain) distribution in the deck panels due to the post-tensioning was also measured and analyzed. The entire construction process for this bridge system was documented. Representatives from the Boone County Engineers Office, the prime contractor, precast fabricator, and researchers from Iowa State University provided feedback and suggestions for improving the constructability of this design.