Structural Response of a Two-Span Concrete Bridge with a ۵۰-cm Deck Slab under Concentrated Vertical Loading: A Case Study

This study presents a numerical investigation into the structural behavior of a two-span continuous concrete bridge subjected to vertical point loadings, with particular emphasis on the influence of a ۵۰ cm deck slab thickness. The bridge, composed of two equal ۸ m spans, was modeled as a continuous reinforced concrete deck supported by end abutments and an intermediate pier. A series of concentrated vertical loads, representing heavy vehicle wheel or axle actions, were applied at critical locations along the deck to capture both local and global response characteristics. Finite element analysis was performed in Abaqus to evaluate von Mises stress distributions, vertical deflections, and the effects of continuity at the central support. The results indicate that the ۵۰ cm slab provides a substantial increase in flexural stiffness, effectively limiting mid span deflections and reducing stress concentrations around the loaded regions compared with thinner deck configurations reported in the literature. Pronounced negative bending and stress redistribution were observed near the intermediate support, highlighting the beneficial role of continuity in sharing loads between adjacent spans. Overall, the findings confirm that a ۵۰ cm deck slab enhances the serviceability and structural robustness of short span continuous concrete bridges under concentrated vertical loads, and they provide practical insight for the design and assessment of similar bridge systems.

کلیدواژه ها:

two-span bridge ، concrete bridge ، deck continuity ، finite element analysis