Model Studies of Multicell Curved Box-Girder Bridges

A model study on the static response of curved box-girder bridges is presented, and a close agreement is found between the test and analytical results. The prototype bridge was a four-cell reinforced concrete design, 33 ft 10 in. (10.31 m) wide, 4 ft 10 in. (1.47 m) deep, and had a radius of curvature of 282 ft (86 m). A 1/29 scale aluminum model was studied for spans of 60 in. (1,500 mm), 45 in. (1,140 mm), and 30 in. (760 mm), with or without a midspan radial diaphragm. The quantities measured were: (1) Boundary reactions; (2) strains at a radial section close to midspan; and (3) deflections at selected points. The data were reduced by computer, and distribution graphs of tangential plate forces, radial bending moments, and deflections were plotted by Calcomp plotter. Based on the model data, some general observations are made regarding the behavior of curved box-girder bridges.