Lateral stability of precast, prestressed concrete bridge girders is a life safety issue whose importance is not always understood or properly addressed. Significant research into this topic has been performed by the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) Committee on Bridges Girder Stability Subcommittee. As a result of this research, the Recommended Practice for Lateral Stability of Precast, Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders was developed and released by PCI in February 2016.

These courses present the background and theory of lateral stability contained in this document for all stages of construction from initial fabrication of the prestressed girders until they are fully incorporated into a bridge. 

In this course you will:
    •    Develop an understanding of the root causes of lateral instability of precast, prestressed concrete girders and the need for stability analysis.
    •    Develop an understanding of the concept of roll axis and be able to identify the roll axis for a variety of support conditions.
    •    Understand the criteria and basic presumptive values suggested for the evaluation of stability.
    •    Identify the equilibrium conditions for the lifted girders.
    •    Evaluate concrete stresses for lifted girders and factors of safety against cracking and failure.
    •    Learn the means to increase the factors of safety against cracking and failure.