Abstract
An improved finite element modeling technique is proposed for the assessment of load carrying capacity of partially prestressed concrete girder bridges. Based on the finite element method of analysis, shell and frame elements are used to model the slab and girders of the superstructure, respectively. In the modeling of superstructure, the emphasis is placed on the use of rigid link between the middle surface of slab an mid-plane of girder. This paper also includes the comparision of three different equations that are used in the calculation of effective moment of inertia for the partially prestressed concrete girders. Numerical analysis is performed for the unstrengthened and strengthened bridges. The obtained results are compared with those of load test for a prototype bridge. A good agreement is achieved between the numerical solutions by using the proposed method load test results.
