PCI eLearning Course T210: Introduction on Full-Depth Panel Precast Concrete Deck System and its Advantages-2008 NCHRP Report 584 – Full-Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Deck Panel Systems

2008 NCHRP Report 584 – Full-Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Deck Panel Systems

Pdf Summary

The NCHRP Report 584 details the development and recommended guidelines for Full-Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Deck Panel Systems, authored by Sameh S. Badie from The George Washington University and Maher K. Tadros from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. This research focuses on creating a set of design, fabrication, and construction specifications for bridge deck panels, making them durable, easy to construct, and connected swiftly. The guidelines also align with AASHTO LRFD design specifications. The panels are reinforced concrete decks tailored for projects aiming for reduced construction time and higher durability.<br /><br />The report particularly emphasizes innovative panel-to-panel and panel-to-girder connections. Detailed are connection types that utilize confined grouting to shorten required reinforcement bar embedment lengths, such as using HSS tubes to encase splice bars, confirmed through experimental testing for durability under tensile and fatigue loads. It also addresses horizontal shear reinforcement using double-headed studs for concrete girder connections to ensure composite action and load durability.<br /><br />Extensively, fatigue and ultimate strength experiments on clustered studs indicate the feasibility of larger shear connector spacing up to 48 inches, meeting fatigue performance criteria of the AASHTO specifications. Also included is guidance based on finite element models and the behavior of panels under flexural stresses through full-scale beam testing, confirming reliable performance.<br /><br />The report concludes with recommendations for implementing these systems in bridge construction, underscoring the potential for faster, cost-effective deck replacements compatible with both steel and concrete girder bridges. Detailed specifications and guidelines developed include practical design and installation steps, ensuring integration into current engineering practices. The appendices include a survey analysis, detailed design calculations, and finite element analysis results to support the findings. The research also suggests further full-scale testing to reduce conservativism and validate horizontal shear capacity in varied bridge scenarios.

Keywords

Full-Depth Precast Concrete

Bridge Deck Panel Systems

Design Specifications

Fabrication Guidelines

Construction Specifications

AASHTO LRFD

Panel-to-Girder Connections

Fatigue Testing

Shear Reinforcement

Finite Element Models