Walid Azzi

Numerous structural analysis methods could be utilised to estimate load effects on bridge decks. These vary from simplified line beams to sophisticated 3-d models using numerical approximations. Depending on a number of factors such as local requirements and knowledge, availability of time, budget constraints etc. the more simplified methods tend to be preferred. Academic studies comparing various methods are widely published, however it is seldom that such comparisons are undertaken in a design office for ‘real structures’. This presentation aims at comparing the results of a full 3-dimensional shell analysis with line beams for 5 road posttensioned bridges with varying structural forms, plan curvatures and span lengths. These bridges are currently being designed for a road improvement project in Bahrain.