Comparative Structural Response of ۸-m Concrete Bridge Decks (۳۰-cm Thickness) under Combined ۵۰ kN/m Distributed and ۲۰۰ kN Concentrated Vertical Loadings: Single-Span vs. Two-Span Continuous Systems

This study presents a comprehensive comparative structural analysis of ۳۰-cm thick concrete bridge decks, evaluating the performance of single-span versus two-span continuous systems under combined loading conditions (۵۰ kN/m uniform distributed load and ۲۰۰ kN concentrated load). Utilizing high-fidelity Finite Element Analysis (FEA), the research investigates the behavioral disparities between these structural configurations, with a specific focus on stress distribution patterns and vertical displacement characteristics. The findings demonstrate that while both systems sustain the applied combined loads, the two-span continuous system exhibits superior structural stiffness and serviceability performance. Specifically, the introduction of an intermediate pier significantly limits mid-span vertical deflections and redistributes internal stresses more efficiently than the simply supported single-span configuration. The results provide critical insights into the benefits of structural continuity in enhancing the load-carrying capacity and deformation control of concrete bridge decks under complex loading regimes, establishing a performance baseline for optimized structural design in short-span bridges.

کلیدواژه ها:

Concrete bridge ، Finite element analysis (FEA) ، Distributed load ، Concentrated load ، Structural response ، Von Mises stress