John R.

Njord, President
Executive Director
Utah Department of Transportation
American Association of
State Highway and John Horsley
Transportation Officials Executive Director

ERRATA
Dear Customer:

Due to errors found after the publication had been completed, AASHTO has reprinted the pages and added two point pages listed
below in order to make the following errata changes to the AASHTO Guide Specifications for Horizontally Curved Steel Girder
Highway Bridges with Design Examples for I-Girder and Box-Girder Bridges:

Page No(s). Affected Section Errata Change

Horizontally Curved Steel Box Girder Example

pp. 333–336 Appendix E.6 Add the following paragraph immediately before the last paragraph on
p. 334:

In certain situations, the Engineer may wish to consider the effect of the access hole in the diaphragm on the section
properties of the effective diaphragm section. From separate but similar calculations to the above, considering the effect of an
assumed 36-in deep access hole centered in the middle of the example diaphragm, the maximum shear stress in the effective
bottom flange due to the diaphragm shear is calculated to be 6.13 ksi. Therefore, in this particular case, the effect of the
access hole on the bottom flange shear stress is not significant.

pp. 339–340 Appendix E.9 Change “H525” to “HS25” on p. 339

pp. 341–342 Appendix E.10 Change “H525” to “HS25” on p. 342

pp. 355–356 Appendix E.12 Add the following to the end of the text on p. 355:

Eq. (A10) gives the normal distortional warping stress at any point in the cross section. The value of Cw is obtained from
either Figure A2, A3, or A9.

Cw y
σdw = ( mA or T ) (A10)
Iβa

where: y = distance along the transverse vertical axis of the box from the neutral axis to the point under consideration

Eq. (A11) gives the axial (brace) force due to distortional forces applied to the box. The value of Cb is obtained from
either Figure A5 or A10.

Executive Office: 444 N. Capitol St., N.W., Suite 249, Washington, D.C. 20001
Telephone (202) 624-5800 Telefax (202) 624-5806 Telex 49000095800 HTO
Page No(s). Affected Section Errata Change

Horizontally Curved Steel Box Girder Example

 a +b 
2
 1 +   
  2h   ( mA or T )
Fb = Cb  (A11)
 a  a
 2 1 +  
  b 
 

Since only two loading positions for concentrated loads are considered in the charts, it is often necessary to interpolate
between figures. The principle of superposition applies for more than one torque. Figure A11 shows the effect of β on the
influence line for diaphragm forces when the diaphragm is rigid.”

pp. 355–356 Appendix E.12 Add Figures A2 and A3 before Figure A4 on p. 356

pp. 359–360 Appendix E.13 In the equation for “ftran” on p. 359, which is the third
equation from the top of the page, “50 ksi” should be “20 ksi.”

pp. 361–362 Appendix E.14 In the middle of p. 362, in the equation for “ftran,” “50 ksi”
should be “20 ksi.”

pp. 363–364 Appendix E.14 Change “H525” to “HS25” on p. 363

pp. 365–366 Appendix E.15 Change “H525” to “HS25” on p. 366

The following new pages have been added to accommodate omitted figures:

pp. 357–357.1 Appendix E.12 Move down Figures A5 through A9

Add Figure A10 on p. 357.1

pp. 357.2–358 Appendix E.12 Add Figure A11 on p. 357.2

Please substitute the original pages of text with the enclosed pages. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

AASHTO Publications Staff

October 2003

2
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 333

R1 shall be taken as:

97 k
R1 = Eq. (10-5)
 f   k  
2 2
1
∆ + ∆2 + 4  v   
2 F 
  y   k s  
where:

k = plate buckling coefficient

ks = shear buckling coefficient

Try: k = 4.0 and ks = 5.34

Since the denominator of Eq (10-5) is approximately equal to 1.0 in this case, R1 = 97 k = 97 x 4.0 = 194.
Since 191 < 194, use Eq. (10-4) to compute the critical flange stress.

Fcr = 50 x 1.0 = 50 ksi

A very rigid longitudinal flange stiffener is required to provide k = 4.0 to ensure that a node forms at the stiffener.
The Engineer should try to match the stiffener size to the required critical flange stress in order to try and obtain the most
economical solution. Always assuming k equal to 4.0, which requires the largest size longitudinal stiffener(s), may not
be the optimum solution for cases where the resulting higher critical flange stress is not necessary. Since a critical flange
stress less than 50 ksi would be satisfactory for this case, try k = 2.0 instead of 4.0, which will result in a lower critical
flange buckling stress, but which will also result in a significantly smaller longitudinal flange stiffener. Since the
denominator of Eq. (10-5) is again approximately equal to 1.0 with k taken equal to 2.0:

R1 = 97 x 2.0 = 137 < 191

Therefore, compute R2.

210 k
R2 = Eq. (10-7)
 f   k  
2 2
1 
( ∆ - 0.4 ) + 4  v    
2
∆ - 0.4 +
1.2   Fy   k s  


210 2.0
R2 =
1  
2 2
 1.18   2.0 
(1.0 - 0.4 ) + 4 
2
1.0 - 0.4 +   
1.2   50   5.34  
 

297
R2 = = 297
  1.18   2.0  
2 2

0.833 0.6 + (1.0 - 0.4) 2 + 4   

  50   5.34  


bs
Check R1 < Fy ≤ R 2 . Since 137 < 191 < 297, use Eq. (10-6) to compute the critical flange stress.
tf

    bs   
   π  R 2 - t Fy    

Fcr = Fy  ∆ - 0.4 1 - sin   f    Eq. (10-6)
  2  R - R1   
  2
      
      
334 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

    40.5   
 π 297 - 50   
Fcr = 50  1.0 - 0.4 1 - sin   1.5 
 = 47.26 ksi
 2   
    297 - 137    
 

-46.47
= 0.98 < 1.00 OK
47.26

The actual value of ks will be determined in the next section on the design of the longitudinal flange stiffener. The
critical stress will then be checked using the actual value of ks to determine if there is a significant change in the stress.

The bottom flange at interior supports acting in combination with the internal diaphragm is subject to bending
in two directions plus the torsional and diaphragm shear (ignoring through-thickness bending of the flange plate under its
own self-weight). Therefore, Article 10.4.2.1 also requires that the combined stress in non-composite box flanges at
supports, due to vertical bending in the box girder and diaphragm and due to the diaphragm plus torsional shear, caused
by the factored loads, not exceed the specified minimum yield stress of the flange. As specified in Article C10.4.2.1, for
such cases, the combined stress in the flange due to the factored loads can be checked using the general form of the Huber-
von Mises-Hencky yield criterion as follows:

σ 2x − σ x σ y + σ 2y + 3f v2 ≤ Fy Eq. (C10-3)

where:

σx = average longitudinal stress in the bottom flange due to vertical bending of the girder (ksi)
σy = stress in the bottom flange due to vertical bending of the diaphragm over the bearing sole plate (ksi)
fv = shear stress in the bottom flange due to the sum of the diaphragm and torsional shears (ksi)
Fy = specified minimum yield stress of the bottom flange (ksi)

For a box supported on two bearings (the case in this example), the bottom-flange bending stress due to vertical
bending of the diaphragm over the bearing sole plate (i.e. σ y ) is typically relatively small and will be neglected for
simplicity in this example. In this case, σ x can simply be checked instead against the critical stress given by Eq. (10-2),
which results from Eq. (C10-3) when σ y is taken equal to zero.
From previous calculations on pages 331 and 332, the total factored St. Venant torsional shear stress in the bottom
flange is equal to 1.18 ksi.
To estimate the shear stress in the bottom flange due to the diaphragm shear, assume a 1 in x 12 in top flange for the
diaphragm. As permitted in Article 10.4.2.1, assume that 18 times the thickness of the bottom (box) flange (18 x 1.5 = 27
in) is effective with the diaphragm. The diaphragm is assumed to be 78 inches deep and 1 in thick. From separate
calculations, the moment of inertia of the effective section is 112,375 in4 and the neutral axis is located 31.05 in above the
mid-thickness of the bottom flange. Subsequent calculations on page 339 indicate that the total factored vertical component
of the diaphragm shear is 1,384 kips. The maximum shear stress in the effective bottom flange due to the diaphragm shear
is therefore approximated as:

VQ 1,384(27/2)(1.5)(31.05)
fv = = = 5.16 ksi
It f 112,375(1.5)

f v tot = 1.18 + 5.16 = 6.34 ksi

In certain situations, the Engineer may wish to consider the effect of the access hole in the diaphragm on the section
properties of the effective diaphragm section. From separate but similar calculations to the above, considering the effect
of an assumed 36-in deep access hole centered in the middle of the example diaphragm, the maximum shear stress in the
effective bottom flange due to the diaphragm shear is calculated to be 6.13 ksi. Therefore, in this particular case, the effect
of the access hole on the bottom flange shear stress is not significant.
The average factored longitudinal stress in the bottom flange due to vertical bending, σ x , was computed earlier (page
331) to be –46.47 ksi. Since σ y is assumed to equal zero in this case, σ x may be checked against the critical stress given
by Eq. (10-2), as discussed previously.
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 335

Fcr = Fy ∆ Eq. (10-2)

where:

2
f 
∆ = 1 - 3 v  Eq. (10-3)
F
 y 

For this check, fv in Eq (10-3) is taken as the total shear stress in the flange.

2
 6.34 
∆ = 1 - 3  = 0.976
 50 

Fcr = 50(0.976) = 48.80 ksi

-46.47
= 0.95 < 1.0 OK
48.80

Note that the direct use of Equation (C10-3) would effectively yield the same answer for this case:

σ 2x − σ x σ y + σ 2y + 3f v2 ≤ Fy Eq. (C10-3)

(−46.47) 2 + 3(6.34) 2 = 47.75 ksi

47.75
= 0.95 OK
50

Another equally valid approach, which would involve some additional calculation, would be to instead check the
combined principal stresses in the flange according to the following form of the Huber-von Mises-Hencky yield criterion:

σ12 − σ1σ 2 + σ22 ≤ Fy Eq. (C10-1)

where: σ1 , σ 2 = maximum and minimum principal stresses in the bottom flange (ksi)
2
 σx + σy   σx − σ y 
±   + fv
2
= 
 2   2 

(Ref: Ugural, A. C. and Fenster, S. K. (1975). Advanced Strength and Applied Elasticity, Elsevier North Holland
Publishing Co., Inc., New York, NY, pp. 105–107)

For this case:

2
 −46.47 + 0   −46.47 − 0 
 + ( 6.34 )
2
σ1,2 =  ± 
 2   2 

σ1,2 = −47.32 ksi, 0.85 ksi

( −47.32 ) − ( −47.32 )( 0.85 )  + ( 0.85 ) = 47.75 ksi

2 2

47.75
= 0.95 OK
50
336 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

For a box supported on a single bearing, the effect of bending in the plane of the diaphragm is likely to be more
significant and should be considered. The effective section specified in Article 10.4.2.1 may be used to compute σ y due
to vertical bending of the internal diaphragm over the sole plate. In this case, either Equation (C10-3) or (C10-1) should
then be used to make the check.

Although not illustrated here, bend buckling of the web must also be checked at the Strength limit state according
to the provisions of Section 6. The critical compressive flange stresses, computed above, should not exceed the critical
compressive web stress (adjusted for the thickness of the flange).
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 339

E.9 GIRDER STRESS CHECK SECTION 5-5 G2 NODE 36

DESIGN OF INTERNAL DIAPHRAGM

Try a 1-in thick A36 diaphragm plate.

Compute the maximum factored vertical shear in the diaphragm. The dead load shears will be computed by
conservatively summing the vertical shears in the critical web of G2 acting on each side of the interior pier section. The
shears include the St. Venant torsional shear.

Load Shear (kips) Source

Steel −46 + 47 = 93 3D Finite Element Analysis
Deck −185 + 185 = 370 (in critical web)
SupImp −96 + 102 = 198
Total DL 661

The live load shear in the critical web at the interior pier is governed by two lanes of lane loading plus impact.
The live load shear in the diaphragm will be computed by summing the vertical shears in the critical web acting on each
side of the interior-pier section and subtracting two times the concentrated load portion of the lane loading plus impact
(i.e., one concentrated load per lane). For HS25 loading, the concentrated load portion of the lane loading is equal to 26.0
x 1.25 = 32.5 kips. The impact factor is conservatively taken equal to 1.4 (Table 3.5.6.2). Therefore:

Load Shear (kips)

Live Load −163 + 170 = 333 − 2(32.5)(1.4) = 242
HS25 + Impact

Determine the total factored vertical shear in the diaphragm at the Strength limit state.

V = 1.3(93 + 370 + 198) + 1.3(5/3)(242) = 1,384 kips

Compute the shear capacity according to AASHTO Eq. (10-113).

Separate calculations indicate that C = 1.0.

Vu = CVp AASHTO Eq. (10-113)

Vp = 0.58Fy Dt w = 0.58(36)(78)(1.0) = 1, 629 kips

Vu = 1.0(1, 629) = 1, 629 kips

1,384
= 0.85 < 1.0 OK
1, 629

The internal diaphragm is subject to vertical bending over the bearing sole plates in addition to shear. Therefore,
Article 10.2.2.2 requires that the principal stresses in internal support diaphragms be computed and that the combined
principal stresses not exceed the specified minimum yield stress of the diaphragm.
Compute the maximum factored shear stress in the diaphragm web. First, separate out the shears due to vertical
bending (Vb) and due to St. Venant torsion (VT).
The sum of the total Steel plus Deck shears is equal to 93 + 370 = 463 kips. Referring to the calculations on page
331, the shear flow in the non-composite box is computed as:

T 26
SF = = = 0.0193 kips/in
2A o 2(56.0)(12)

VT = 0.0193(80.4) = 15.52 kips

340 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

The vertical component of VT is computed as:

 78 
(VT ) = 15.52   = 15.06 kips
v
 80.4 

Vb = 463 - 15.06 = 447.9 kips

The sum of the total Superimposed Dead Load and Live Load plus Impact shears is equal to 198 + 5/3(242) =
601 kips. Referring to the calculations on page 332, the shear flow in the composite box is computed as:

T -1,956
SF = = = 1.33 kips/in
2A o 2(61.0)(12)

VT = 1.33(80.4) = 106.9 kips

The vertical component of VT is computed as:

 78 
(VT ) v = 106.9   = 103.7 kips
 80.4 

Vb = 601 -103.7 = 497.3 kips

The factored shear stress due to torsion in the diaphragm web is therefore equal to:

(f v )T = 1.3(0.0193/1.0 + 1.33/1.0) = 1.75 ksi

The average factored shear stress due to vertical bending in the diaphragm web is equal to:

1.3(447.9 + 497.3)
(f v ) b = = 15.75 ksi
78(1.0)

Therefore, the total factored shear stress in the diaphragm web is equal to:

f v = ( f v )T + ( f v )b = 1.75 + 15.75 = 17.50 ksi

As specified in Article C10.2.2.2, the combined principal stresses in the diaphragm due to the factored loads
can be checked using the general form of the Huber-von Mises-Hencky yield criterion as follows:

σ12 − σ1σ 2 + σ22 ≤ Fy Eq. (C10-1)

where: σ1 , σ2 = critical maximum and minimum principal stresses in the diaphragm (ksi)

2
 σ y + σz   σy − σz 
±   + fv
2
=  Eq. (C10-2)
 2   2 
σy = stress in the diaphragm due to vertical bending of the diaphragm over the bearing sole plate (ksi)
σz = stress in the diaphragm due to bending of the diaphragm about its longitudinal axis (ksi)
fv = shear stress in the diaphragm (ksi)
Fy = specified minimum yield stress of the diaphragm (ksi)

For a box supported on two bearings (the case in this example), the stress in the diaphragm due to vertical bending
of the diaphragm over the bearing sole plate (i.e., σ y ) is typically relatively small and will be neglected for simplicity in
this example. σ z is also typically neglected. From Equation (C10-2), if no bending is assumed, the two principal stresses
are simply equal tensile and compressive stresses with a magnitude equal to the shear stress as follows:
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 341

( 0) + (17.50 ) = ±17.50 ksi

2 2
σ1,2 = 0 ±

Checking the combined principal stresses according to Equation (C10-1):

(17.50 ) − (17.50 )( −17.50 ) + ( −17.50 )

2 2
= 30.31 ksi

30.31
= 0.84 OK
36

It should be noted that for this case with no bending assumed where σ 2 = −σ1 , the preceding calculation is
equivalent to simply limiting the principal stress, σ1 , in the diaphragm, which is equal to the shear stress in the diaphragm
due to the factored loads, to the shear yield stress, τ y = Fy / 3, as follows:

Fy 36
τy = = = 20.78 ksi
3 3

17.50
= 0.84 OK
20.78

In this case, this check is essentially equivalent to the shear check illustrated on page 339. However, the Engineer
is asked to compute the principal stresses in the diaphragm because when the magnitude of the principal tensile stress due
to the factored loads is deemed significant, the Engineer may wish to also consider the magnitude of this stress under the
factored fatigue live load plus impact. A large principal tensile stress under this loading condition may preclude the use
of certain fatigue-sensitive details on the diaphragm. Thus, even for cases where no bending of the diaphragm is assumed,
the Engineer may still need to consider the critical principal stress range under the moving fatigue live load when highly
fatigue-sensitive details are present on the diaphragm. It should be noted that the direction of the principal tensile stress
may change for different positions of the live load.

For a box supported on a single bearing, the effect of the bending stress in the plane of the diaphragm is likely
to be more significant and should be considered. As specified in Article 10.4.2.1, a width of the bottom (box) flange equal
to 18 times its thickness may be considered effective with the diaphragm in resisting bending. For cases where bending
of the diaphragm is considered, more than one loading condition may need to be investigated in order to determine the
critical principal stresses in the diaphragm.

For the two-bearing arrangement selected in this example, the section through the access hole is not critical.
However, the designer should ensure that sufficient section is provided around the access hole to carry the torsional shear
flow without reinforcement of the hole. For a box supported on a single bearing, the section through the access hole is
critical and additional stiffening and/or reinforcement around the hole may be necessary.
342 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

E.10 GIRDER STRESS CHECK SECTION 5-5 G2 NODE 36

DESIGN OF BEARING STIFFENERS

Compute the factored reactions.

Figure E.10.1 Internal Diaphragm and Bearing Stiffeners at Pier of Girder 2

Looking Upstation

Reaction Location
Load Left Right Source
Steel 79 93 3D Finite Element Analysis
Deck 238 370 (Not tabulated)
SupImp 198 26
Total DL 515 k 489 k

Live Load HS25 + Impact 252 k 288 k

–78 k –17 k uplift

Note that the reported live load plus impact reactions at the left and right bearings are not caused by coincident
loads.
 5 
R left = 1.3 515 + (252 )  = 1, 216 kips
 3 

 5 
R right = 1.3  489 + (288 )  = 1, 260 kips (controls)
 3 

Ignore uplift.
Assume that the bearings are fixed at the piers. Thus, there will be no expansion causing eccentric loading on the
bearing stiffeners. Design the bearing stiffeners at this location according to the provisions of Article 6.7.
Use bars with Fy = 50 ksi. Compute the maximum permissible width-to-thickness ratio of the stiffener plates
according to Eq. (6-13).

bs E 29, 000
≤ 0.48 = 0.48 = 11.6
ts Fy 50
where:

Fy = specified minimum yield stress of the stiffeners

Compute the effective area of the diaphragm to which the stiffeners are attached (tw = 1.0 in) according to the
provisions of Article 6.7.

A d = 18t 2w = 18 x 1.02 = 18.0 in 2

HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 355

Eq. (A6) tacitly assumes that cross bracing is effective in both compression and tension. If the bracing slenderness
is large, the bracing is only effective in tension, and Ab in Equation A6 should be one-half the area of one brace.
The stresses derived from distortion of the box can be determined analogously by solving the BEF problem. Moment
in the BEF is analogous to normal distortional stress, σdw , and deflection in the BEF is analogous to distortional
transverse bending stress, σ t . The reactions in the BEF are analogous to the forces in cross bracing, Fb. Solutions for
these three components are presented in graphical form in Figures A2 through A10. [Ed. note: only the pages containing
Figures A4 through A9 are reproduced here. Figure A6 is used in this example.] These figures give a “C” value which
is used in appropriate equations —A8, A10, A11. These graphs show relationships for uniform torque, m, or concentrated
torque, T, at midpanel or diaphragms. The figures give the appropriate “C” values for a given box geometry, β, loading,
diaphragm stiffness, q, and spacing, l. The designer is able to determine the distortion-related stresses, and estimate how
diaphragm spacing and stiffness may be best modified if necessary.
Eq. (A8) gives transverse bending stresses at the top or bottom corners of the box section, depending on the
determination of Fd in Equations A9a or A9b. The critical stress may be in either the web or flange. The AASHTO
Specification limits the range of the transverse bending stresses to 20,000 psi. [Ed. note: the preceding limit is specified
only in AASHTO Article 10.39.3.2.2 for straight boxes and not in the 1993 Guide Spec or the Guide Specifications.]
Therefore, the torsion in both directions often must be determined. The stress range is the sum of absolute values of
stresses due to opposite torques.
1
σt = C t Fd β ( ml or T ) (A8)
2a
where:

m = uniform torque per unit length

T = concentrated torque
bv
Fd = for bottom corner of box (A9a)
2S
a  b 
Fd =  − v  for top corner of box (A9b)
2S  a + b 

where:

S = section modulus of transverse member (see Figure A1c)

Eq. (A10) gives the normal distortional warping stress at any point in the cross section. The value of Cw is obtained
from either Figure A2, A3, or A9.

Cw y
σdw = ( mA or T ) (A10)
Iβa

where: y = distance along the transverse vertical axis of the box from the neutral axis to the point under consideration

Eq. (A11) gives the axial (brace) force due to distortional forces applied to the box. The value of Cb is obtained from
either Figure A5 or A10.

 a +b 
2
 1 +   
  2h   ( mA or T )
Fb = Cb 
 a  a
 2 1 +  
  b 
 
(A11)

Since only two loading positions for concentrated loads are considered in the charts, it is often necessary to interpolate
between figures. The principle of superposition applies for more than one torque. Figure A11 shows the effect of β on the
influence line for diaphragm forces when the diaphragm is rigid.
356 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

Figure A2. Uniform Torque on Continuous Beam—Normal

Distortional Warping Stress at Midpanel

Figure A3. Uniform Torque on Continuous Beam—Normal

Distortional Warping Stress at Diaphragm

Figure A4. Uniform Torque on Continuous Beam–Distortional

Transverse Bending Stress at Midpanel
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 357

Figure A5. Uniform Torque on Continuous

Beam—Diaphragm Force

Figure A6. Concentrated Torque at Midpanel on Continuous

Beam–Distortional Transverse Bending Stress at Load

Figure A7. Concentrated Torque at Midpanel on Continuous

Beam—Distortional Transverse Bending Stress at Diaphragm
357.1 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

Figure A8. Concentrated Torque at Diaphragm on Continuous

Beam—Distortional Transverse Bending Stress at Diaphragm

Figure A9. Concentrated Torque at Midpanel on Continuous

Beam—Normal Distortional Warping Stress at Midpanel

Figure A10. Load at Diaphragm on Continuous

Beam—Diaphragm Force
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 357.2

Figure A11. Influence Line for Rigid Diaphragm

With Concentrated Torque
358 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

E.13 GIRDER STRESS CHECK SECTION 5-5 G2 NODE 36

COMPOSITE BOTTOM FLANGE OPTION

Assume that the bottom box flange in the negative moment regions will be redesigned using an unstiffened plate
with 8 inches of composite concrete according to the provisions of Article 10.4.3. The girder moment due to the added
weight of the flange concrete is considered. It is assumed that the concrete is placed after the steel has been erected and
before the deck is cast. Thus, the bottom flange will be composite for the deck load. The superimposed dead load is added
after the deck and the bottom flange concrete have hardened. Live load plus impact will be applied to the composite
section. Only the rebars in the deck will be considered to act compositely with the steel section (with the composite box
flange) at the Strength limit state.

Table E.13.1 Section Properties of G2 with 8 inches of 6,000 psi Concrete in Bottom Flange

Top Flg 18 x 3 Top Flg 18 x 1.5

Bot Flg 81 x 1.25 (Node 36) Bot Flg 81 x 0.75 (Node 32)
Section I (in4) NA (in) I (in4) NA (in)
1. Noncomposite
396,155 41.99 238,466 39.59
2. Composite flange 3n
w/o deck rebars 438,765 38.26 275,140 34.69
3. Composite flange n
w/o deck rebars 502,477 32.68 324,442 28.11
4. Composite flange 3n
w/deck rebars 454,801 39.20 293,094 36.06
5. Composite flange n
w/deck rebars 560,391 35.22 390,313 31.61
NA is distance from bottom of section to the neutral axis.
Effective deck rebar area for 3n equals 20.0/3 = 6.67 in2

1. Noncomposite
2. Steel with bottom flange concrete at 3n without deck rebars
3. Steel with bottom flange concrete at n without deck rebars
4. Steel with bottom flange concrete at 3n and deck rebars at 3n
5. Steel with bottom flange concrete at n and deck rebars at n

Properties of bottom flange concrete:

f c′ = 6, 000 psi ; E c = 4, 696 ksi ; n = 6.2

The bottom flange concrete is assumed to be continuous through the interior support diaphragm as required in
Article 10.2.2.2. Bottom transverse bracing members (i.e. the bottom struts of the interior cross frames) are assumed to
be located above the concrete in this region.
Try a 1.25-inch thick unstiffened bottom flange plate.
Check the transverse bending stress in the bottom flange plate due to the self-weight of the plate and the wet
concrete.
Compute the section modulus of a one-foot wide section of the bottom flange plate.

1 1
S = bt f2 = x 12 x 1.252 = 3.13 in 3 /ft
6 6

Compute the moment applied to the flange plate due to the weight of the steel and flange concrete. Assume a
simple span between webs.
1.25 x 12 in x 3.4
Steel weight per foot of width, w s = = 4.3 pounds/in/ft
12
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 359

1 1
M steel = w s A 2 = x 0.0043 x 812 = 3.53 k-in/ft
8 8
8 1
Concrete weight per foot of width, w c = 1′ x 150 x = 8.33 pounds/in/ft
12 12

1 1
M conc = w c A 2 = x 0.00833 x 812 = 6.83 k-in/ft
8 8

Compute the maximum transverse bending stress in the flange plate at the Constructibility limit state. Load
factor = 1.4 (Article 3.3).

M (3.53 + 6.83)
f tran = = x 1.4 = 4.63 ksi < 20 ksi OK
S 3.13

Although not checked here, Article 10.4.2.1 also limits the maximum vertical deflection of the box flange due
to self-weight and the applied permanent loads to 1/360 times the transverse span between webs.
The concrete is to be placed on the bottom flange of the field section over each pier.
The bottom flange concrete causes a longitudinal girder moment of –880 k-ft at Section 5-5 in G2 from the finite
element analysis. The longitudinal girder moment due to steel weight = –3,154 k-ft from Table D.1.
Compute the total moment applied to the steel section.

M = –3,154 + (–880) = –4,034 k-ft

Check the vertical bending stress in the unstiffened plate at the Constructibility limit state.
Compute the vertical bending stress in the bottom flange due to steel weight and concrete. Section properties are
from Table E.13.1.
As specified in Article 10.4.3.1, for loads applied prior to hardening of the concrete, composite box flanges are
to be designed as non-composite box flanges according to the provisions of Article 10.4.2.

-4, 034 x 41.99 x 12 x 1.4

f bot flg = = - 7.18 ksi
396,155

The critical buckling stress for the non-composite bottom flange with no stiffening according to Article 10.4.2.4.1
equals 24.9 ksi (calculations not shown).

-7.18
= 0.29 < 1.00 OK
24.9

Compute the factored bottom flange vertical bending stress in the non-composite section at the Strength limit
state.

 1.3 
f b = - 7.18 x   = - 6.67 ksi
 1.4 

Compute the factored bottom flange vertical bending stress in the composite section due to the deck weight.

Mdeck = –12,272 k-ft (Table D.1)

As specified in Article 10.4.3.3, concrete creep is to be considered when checking the compressive steel stress.
Concrete compressive stress are to be checked without considering creep. Therefore, use 3n section properties to check
the steel stress and n section properties to check the concrete stress.
Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the extreme fiber of the composite bottom flange due to the deck
weight. Use creep properties (3n) from Table E.13.1.

-12, 272 x 38.26

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 = -16.69 ksi
438, 765
360 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the extreme fiber of the composite bottom flange concrete due
to the deck weight. Use no creep properties (n) from Table E.13.1.

-12, 272 x (32.68 -1.25) 1

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 x = -1.93 ksi
502, 477 6.2

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the composite bottom flange due to the superimposed dead load
after the deck has hardened.
Superimposed dead load moment = –4,473 k-ft from Table D.1.
Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the extreme fiber of the composite bottom flange due to the
superimposed dead load. Use the appropriate creep properties (3n) from Table E.13.1.

-4, 473 x 39.20

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 = - 6.01 ksi
454,801

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the extreme fiber of the composite bottom flange concrete due
to the superimposed dead load. Use the appropriate no creep properties (n) from Table E.13.1.

-4, 473 x (35.22 - 1.25) 1

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 x = - 0.68 ksi
560,391 6.2

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the composite bottom flange due to the live load. Use the
appropriate n section properties from Table E.13.1.
Moment due to live load = –8,566 k-ft from Table D.1.

-8,566(5/3) x 35.22
f bot = x 12 x 1.3 = -14.00 ksi
560,391

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the composite bottom flange concrete due to the live load. Use
the appropriate n section properties from Table E.13.1.

-8,566(5/3) x (35.22 -1.25) x 12 x 1.3 1

f bot = x = - 2.18 ksi
560,391 6.2

Check the total factored vertical bending stress in the steel bottom flange at the Strength limit state.

f tot = - 6.67 + (-16.69) + (-6.01) + (-14.00) = - 43.37 ksi

As specified in Article 10.4.3.3, the critical stress for the steel bottom flange in compression at the Strength limit
state is given by Eq. (10-4) as follows:

Fcr = Fy ∆ Eq. (10-4)

2
f 
where: ∆ = 1- 3  v  Eq. (10-3)
F 
 y

From Table D.3, the torque due to the steel weight is –22 k-ft (the torque due to the wet bottom concrete is
neglected since the load is symmetrical and the curvature effect is relatively small). Using calculations similar to those
shown on page 331, the enclosed area of the non-composite box is computed to be A o = 55.9 ft 2 .

T -22
fv = = x 1.3 = 0.017 ksi
2A o t f 2(55.9)(1.25)12
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 361

Subsequent calculations (page 366) show that the factored torque on the composite section at the Strength limit
state is equal to –2,481 k-ft. To account for the possibility of concrete creep, it is conservatively assumed that all of this
torque is resisted by the steel flange in this computation, as required by Article 10.4.3.4 at the Strength limit state. The
enclosed area of the composite box is computed to be A o = 61.0 ft 2 .

T -2, 481
fv = = = 1.36 ksi
2A o t f 2(61.0)(1.25)(12)

( f v )tot = 0.017 + 1.36 = 1.38 ksi

The total shear stress satisfies Eq (10-1) in Article 10.4.2.2 by inspection.

2
 1.38 
∆ = 1- 3   = 0.999
 50 

Fcr = 50(0.999) = 49.95 ksi

| -43.37 |
= 0.87 < 1.00 OK
49.95

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the bottom of the concrete at the Strength limit state assuming
no creep.

Fcr conc = 0.85 x 6 = 5.10 ksi (Article 10.4.3.3)

f tot = -1.93 + (-0.68) + (-2.18) = - 4.79 ksi

| -4.79 |
= 0.94 < 1.00 OK
5.10
362 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

E.14 GIRDER STRESS CHECK SECTION 4-4 G2 NODE 32

COMPOSITE BOTTOM FLANGE OPTION

Try a 0.75-inch thick flange plate at this section with 8 inches of concrete.
Check the transverse bending stress in the bottom flange plate due to the self-weight of the plate and the wet
concrete.
Compute the section modulus of a one-foot wide section of the bottom flange plate.

1 1
S = bt f2 = x 12 x 0.752 = 1.13 in 3 /ft
6 6

Compute the moment applied to the flange plate due to the weight of the steel and flange concrete. Assume a
simple span between webs.
0.75 x 12 in x 3.4
Steel weight per foot of width, w s = = 2.6 pounds/in/ft
12

1 1
M steel = w s A 2 = x 0.0026 x 812 = 2.13 k-in/ft
8 8

Compute the maximum transverse bending stress in the flange plate at the Constructibility limit state. Load
factor = 1.4.

Mconc = 6.83 k-in/ft due to the weight of the concrete from page 359.

M (2.13 + 6.83)
f tran = = x 1.4 = 11.10 ksi < 20 ksi OK
S 1.13 in 3

The longitudinal girder moment due to the additional concrete in the bottom flange = –358 k-ft from the
finite element analysis. The longitudinal girder moment due to the steel weight = –1,896 k-ft (Table D.1).

M = –1,896 + (–358) = –2,254 k-ft

Check the vertical bending stress in the bottom flange due to the total moment applied to the non-composite
section at the Constructibility limit state. Section properties are from Table E.13.1.

-2, 254 x 39.59 x 12 x 1.4

f bot flg = = - 6.29 ksi
238, 466

Determine the critical stress for the unstiffened box flange according to Article 10.4.2.4.1.

Fcr = 8.8 ksi (calculations not shown)

| -6.29 |
= 0.71 < 1.00 OK
8.8

Adjust the stress for the Strength limit state load factor.

1.3
-6.29 x = - 5.84 ksi
1.4

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the composite bottom flange due to the deck weight. Use 3n
section properties from Table E.13.1.
Moment due to deck weight = –7,599 k-ft from Table D.1.

-7,599 x 34.69
f bot = x 12 x 1.3 = -14.95 ksi
275,140
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 363

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the extreme fiber of the composite bottom flange concrete
due to the deck weight. Use n section properties from Table E.13.1.

-7,599 x (28.11 - 0.75) 1

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 x = -1.61 ksi
324, 442 6.2

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the composite bottom flange due to the superimposed dead
load. Use the appropriate 3n section properties from Table E.13.1.
Superimposed dead load moment = –2,610 k-ft from Table D.1.

-2, 610 x 36.06

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 = - 5.01 ksi
293, 094

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the composite bottom flange concrete due to superimposed
dead load. Use the appropriate n section properties from Table E.13.1.

-2, 610 x (31.61 - 0.75) 1

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 x = - 0.52 ksi
390,313 6.2

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the composite bottom flange due to the live load. Use the
appropriate n section properties from Table E.13.1.
Moment due to live load = –5,612 k-ft from Table D.1.

-5, 612(5/3) x 31.61

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 = -11.82 ksi
390,313

Compute the factored vertical bending stress in the composite bottom flange concrete due to live load. Use
the appropriate n section properties from Table E.13.1.

-5, 612(5/3) x (31.61 - 0.75) 1

f bot = x 12 x 1.3 x = -1.86 ksi
390,313 6.2

Compute the total factored vertical bending stress in the steel bottom flange at the Strength limit state.

f tot = - 5.84 + (-14.95) + (-5.01) + (-11.82) = - 37.62 ksi

The torque due to the steel weight is -10 k-ft (Table D.3). The enclosed area of the non-composite box is
computed to be Ao = 55.2 ft2.

T -10
fv = = x 1.3 = 0.013 ksi
2A o t f 2(55.2)(0.75)(12)

The factored torque on the composite section at the Strength limit state is computed to be

Loading Torque (Table D.3)

Deck 63 x 1.3 82 k-ft
Superimposed DL –273 x 1.3 –355 k-ft
Live Load HS25 + Impact –688(5/3) x 1.3 –1,491 k-ft
–1,764 k-ft

The enclosed area of the composite box is computed to be Ao = 60.8 ft2.

T -1, 764
fv = = = 1.61 ksi
2A o t f 2(60.8)(0.75)(12)

( f v )tot = 0.013 + 1.61 = 1.62 ksi

364 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

which satisfies Eq. (10-1) in Article 10.4.2.2 by inspection.

2
 1.62 
∆ = 1- 3   = 0.998
 50 

Fcr = 50(0.998) = 49.90 ksi

-37.62
= 0.75 < 1.00 OK
49.90

Compute the total factored vertical bending stress in the bottom flange concrete at the Strength limit state.

f tot = -1.61 + (-0.52) + (-1.86) = - 3.99 ksi

Fcr conc = 5.10 ksi (from page 361)

| -3.99 |
= 0.78 < 1.00 OK
5.10
HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL BOX-GIRDER DESIGN EXAMPLE 365

E.15 GIRDER STRESS CHECK SECTION 5-5 G2 NODE 36

COMPOSITE BOTTOM FLANGE OPTION DESIGN OF SHEAR CONNECTORS—STRENGTH

Check the ultimate strength of the shear connectors on the composite bottom flange according to the
provisions of Article 10.4.3.5, which refer back to the provisions of Article 7.2.1. As specified in Article 10.4.3.5, the
radial force due to curvature is ignored. The longitudinal force to be developed is given by Eq. (7-4), with bd taken as
the full width of the bottom flange concrete.

Required capacity = 0.85f c′bd t d Eq. (7-4)

P = 0.85 x 6 ksi x 81 in x 8 in = 3,305 kips

Compute the capacity of one shear connector.

H 6
= = 6.86 > 4.0
d 0.875

Su = 0.4d 2 f c′E c ≤ 60, 000A sc AASHTO Eq. (10-67)

(Note: the upper limit of 60,000Asc in the above equation is incorporated in the 2000 Interims to the
Standard Specifications and is included here.)

A sc = π(0.875) 2/4 = 0.6 in 2

Su = 0.4 x 0.8752 6 x 4, 696 = 51.4 kips > 60(0.6) = 36 kips

∴ Su = 36 kips

Compute the minimum number of shear connectors required on each side of the pier.

P 3,305
No. of shear connectors req’d. = = = 108.0
φscSu 0.85(36)

Try six studs uniformly spaced across the flange (Figure E.15.1) with 18 rows on each side of the pier (for
108 shear connectors per flange on each side of the pier). The studs must be spaced transversely so that the steel plate
slenderness limit of R1 in Eq (10-4) is satisfied, where bf is taken as the transverse spacing between the shear
connectors (Article 10.4.3.5).
Check the computed force on the critical studs at Node 36.
Compute the axial force in the bottom flange concrete due to the vertical moment. Compute the stresses in
the top of the composite bottom flange concrete due to the deck weight without creep. Use the ratio of the distances to
the neutral axis.

 32.68 - 9.25 
f top = -1.93   = -1.44 ksi
 32.68 -1.25 

Compute the stress in the top of the composite bottom flange concrete due to superimposed dead load and
live load without creep.

 35.22 - 9.25 
f top = [-0.68 + (-2.18) ]   = - 2.19 ksi
 35.22 -1.25 
366 AASHTO GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED STEEL GIRDER HIGHWAY BRIDGES

Figure E.15.1 Shear Studs on Composite Bottom Flange

Compute the longitudinal force in the composite bottom flange concrete due to vertical bending. Use the
average bending stress in the concrete times the area of the concrete.

 1.93 + 1.44 2.86 + 2.19 

F= +  x 81 x 8 = 2, 728 kips
 2 2 

Compute the longitudinal force per stud.

FL = 2,728/108 = 25.26 kips/stud

Compute the St. Venant torsional shear in the concrete at the Strength limit state. Assume that a single row of
studs across the flange will resist the torsional shear in the flange concrete.

Loading Torque (Table D.3)

Deck 48 x 1.3 62 k-ft
Superimposed DL –346 x 1.3 –450 k-ft
Live load HS25 + Impact –966(5/3) x 1.3 –2,093 k-ft
Total –2,481 k-ft

Assume all torsion is applied to the uncracked section without creep.

Effective concrete thickness = Thickness/n = 8 in /6.2 = 1.29 in.

Using calculations similar to those shown on page 332, the enclosed area of the composite box is computed
to be Ao = 61.0 ft2.

T
V= bf
2A o

-2, 481 81
V= = 137 kips
2 x 61.0 12

Compute the portion of the torsional shear resisted by the concrete by taking the ratio of the effective
concrete thickness to the total thickness of the steel flange plus the effective concrete.

1.29 in
Vconc = 137 kips x = 70 kips
(1.25 in + 1.29 in)