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Abstract:
In this paper, three models of slab on beam (T-beam) bridge with varying number of girders and varying spans lengths were loaded with Load Model 1 (LM1) according to Euro code 1 Part 2 (EN 1991-2), and analysed using Finite Element Analysis, Grillage Analogy, and Courbon's method. The width of the carriageway is 7.2m, and with Euro code specifications, two notional lanes (3m wide each) and a remaining area 1.2m wide was produced for all the models. The bridge was analysed for LM1 only, with the load arrangement maximised for worst effect on the exterior girder. In the results obtained, finite element analysis gave the most economical results for longitudinal bending moment and shear forces, followed closely by grillage analogy. However, a calibration factor was proposed for the results from Courbon's method as a function of the bridge span length, which will enable Courbon's method to be used as a quick check for verification of results from computer methods, since it is a very easy and quick manual method to apply, thereby ameliorating the limitations in the use of the method.
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