Jointless bridges : final report.

7520976PDFTech Report81-R48.VirginiaVirginia Transportation Research CouncilZuk, WilliamVirginia Highway & Transportation Research CouncilUS Transportation CollectionThe results of this study are reported in two parts. The first deals with the various methods states are employing to reduce the number of joints in bridge decks. The most common method is the use of integral abutments, where the superstructure is joined to a flexible type of abutment. Typical designs of integral abutments are illustrated in the Interim Report on Jointless Bridges, dated November 1980. The second part of the study deals with four new methods of reducing the number of joints in a bridge. These include the use of continuous jointless decks, flexible steel plate connectors between the superstructure and the piers, high cambering of the superstructure, and flexible piers. These four methods are analyzed mathematically, and from the analysis conclusions are drawn as to the feasibility of these methods