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

This study presents a comprehensive behavioral assessment of a three-span continuous reinforced concrete bridge, focusing on the structural performance of a ۵۰-cm thick deck slab subjected to vertical point loadings. While continuous bridge systems are recognized for their efficiency in load redistribution, the interaction between increased deck stiffness and localized loading remains a critical area for structural optimization. Utilizing finite element analysis (FEA) via Abaqus, this research models a three-span configuration to evaluate stress distribution patterns and vertical displacement fields under high-intensity service conditions. The results demonstrate that the increased slab thickness effectively mitigates stress concentrations and significantly enhances structural rigidity. The findings validate that the continuous support system, combined with an optimized deck depth, ensures superior serviceability and effective load distribution. This study provides valuable insights into the design of continuous concrete bridges, confirming that geometric enhancement of the deck slab is a robust strategy for managing localized forces and improving the overall durability of multi-span bridge systems.

کلیدواژه ها:

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