bridge basics 5

[superbong]

hi guys, i need some basic info on bridge construction!

what is the construction process of a simple beam bridge?? mainly looking at the in situ concrete works

thanks in advanced

 

[LobstaEata]

Holy Moley. You asked a very broad question here. Kind of like wanting to know the "basic" steps involved in becoming an engineer.

OK, we'll try to be constructive. Here are the very "basics".

Step 1. Perform topographic survey of site. Depending upon the posted speed of the road, you'll want to extend the survey several hundred feet up and downstation of the crossing itself. Also if a stream is being crossed, the survey should extend several hundred feet upstream and downstream.

Step 2. Perform a bridge type, size and location study. This establishes basic bridge geometry, hydraulic constraints, geotechnical constraints, relationship to NAVD88 datum and horizontal control to established coordinates, archeological and historical constraints, comparison of structure types, spans orientation and locations relating to technical and economic issues.

Step 3. Develop preliminary plans of the selected structure type. Determine environmental and hydraulic impacts based on selected structure.

Step 4. Develop right-of-way plans, legal team to initiate land condemnation documents.

Step 5. Develop environmental permitting documents for Federal, State and municipal agencies.

Step 6. Prepare final design documents for construction (ie. plans, specifications and quantity/cost estimate).

Step 7. Develop construction administration bid documents.

Step 8. Bid project. Select Contractor.

Step 9. Contractor contacts Dig Safe.

Step 10. Contractor stakes out bridge, establishes erosion control limits.

Step 11. Contractor excavates, installs foundations, installs superstructure, barrier membrane, wearing surface, bridge rail, approach rail, etc.

OK...I'm not going to get too crazy here....I think this provides a brief overview, but please know that it nowhere near covers all the tasks involved in bridge design and construction. Consider this an bullet list for the next book on "Bridge Construction for Dummies".

There is a "bridge engineering" group in engineering tips that might offer some assistance, although you will probably need to be much more specific about what information you are seeking if you expect to receive meaningful responses.

Hope this has been helpful.

 

[beton1]

A tall order. LobstaEata, a valiant effort (and patient).
I would suggest some reading or standards review. You can look up the ACI site and 'get a feel for some bridges' by
examining Concrete International. In Canada, we have the "Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code" (CAN/CSA-S6-06).
A basic or as you state 'simple' bridge is relatively easy from a structural aspect, it is all the other (hydraulics etc) procedures, as LobstaEata states, that makes it more involved. Look at a set of plans of a culvert or small bridge (pick up a tender set for example) and you will appreciate all the engineering. A lot to absorb.