PCI eLearning Course T210: Introduction on Full-Depth Panel Precast Concrete Deck System and its Advantages-Precast Prestressed Concrete Bridge Deck Panels

Precast Prestressed Concrete Bridge Deck Panels

Pdf Summary

This special report provides guidelines for the design, manufacture, and erection of precast prestressed concrete bridge deck panels. The report is based on the latest research and practical experience gained from their use in different parts of the United States. <br /><br />The report begins with a brief history of bridge deck panels and then provides suggestions for dimensioning and detailing of panels, techniques for casting panels, and ideas for handling, shipping, and erection of panels. The report also includes a fully worked design example of a bridge deck panel that meets AASHTO specifications and showcases various applications of bridge deck panels in pictorial form.<br /><br />The use of precast prestressed concrete deck panels in bridge construction has been proven to be economical and convenient. They replace the bottom transverse deck reinforcement and also serve as a form surface for the cast-in-place concrete upper layer. The report emphasizes the importance of proper detailing, especially in dimensioning, reinforcement, and joint details.<br /><br />The research indicates that chloride penetration does not occur in the panels and that cracking in the bridge deck surface above the butt joints between panels is not a significant concern. However, cracking related to non-rigid bearing of the panels on longitudinal beams without proper support has been a concern.<br /><br />Overall, the report concludes that proper design and detailing are crucial for the performance and durability of precast prestressed concrete bridge deck panels. The report also mentions ongoing efforts to improve the industry's products, including the development of a recommended practice for bridge deck panels by the Bridge Producers Committee of the Prestressed Concrete Institute.

Keywords

precast prestressed concrete

bridge deck panels

dimensioning

detailing

casting panels

AASHTO specifications

applications

reinforcement

cracking

recommended practice