Analysis of curved incrementally launched box concrete bridges using the Transfer Matrix Method

Abstract

Incrementally launching technique is today very competitive for the construction of continuous concrete bridges. During construction the static scheme of these bridges varies continuously, with the advance of the deck above piers, producing temporary stresses rather different from those occurring in service. An approach to analyse construction phases of curved incrementally launched bridges is presented for concrete single box girder, using the Transfer Matrix Method. A procedure based on this method, already developed for straight launched bridges, has been extended to curved beams, allowing engineers to estimate the effects of horizontal curvature during the entire launching process. This procedure allows engineers to carry out parametric studies for the optimization of structural design of curved concrete launched bridges.