Abstract Title
Application and Development of Accelerated Bridge Construction Technologies in the State of Idaho
Abstract
Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) is a new technology being used when replacing a worn-out bridge. ABC uses prefabricated structural elements made in a factory and then transported to the construction site for assembly. This new technology helps decrease the time it takes to finish replacing a bridge, minimizes traffic, increases safety for both workers and the public, and it has less impact on the environment. ABC is becoming popular throughout the world especially in the United States, Japan, New Zealand, and parts of Europe. This paper presents recent applications of ABC technologies by Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) for replacement of old bridges throughout the State. ITD has been partnering with Idaho State University (ISU) for further research on ABC. One of the latest research projects at ISU investigated seismic adequacy of grouted splice couplers for precast columns. This study concluded that it is best to use the grouted splice couplers on precast column-to-footing and column-to-cap beam connections when the drift demand is lower than 4%. The current research project at ISU investigates the effectiveness of high early strength concrete class 50AF with polypropylene fibers as cost-effective alternative for field-cast connections of precast superstructure elements in ABC.
Application and Development of Accelerated Bridge Construction Technologies in the State of Idaho
Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) is a new technology being used when replacing a worn-out bridge. ABC uses prefabricated structural elements made in a factory and then transported to the construction site for assembly. This new technology helps decrease the time it takes to finish replacing a bridge, minimizes traffic, increases safety for both workers and the public, and it has less impact on the environment. ABC is becoming popular throughout the world especially in the United States, Japan, New Zealand, and parts of Europe. This paper presents recent applications of ABC technologies by Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) for replacement of old bridges throughout the State. ITD has been partnering with Idaho State University (ISU) for further research on ABC. One of the latest research projects at ISU investigated seismic adequacy of grouted splice couplers for precast columns. This study concluded that it is best to use the grouted splice couplers on precast column-to-footing and column-to-cap beam connections when the drift demand is lower than 4%. The current research project at ISU investigates the effectiveness of high early strength concrete class 50AF with polypropylene fibers as cost-effective alternative for field-cast connections of precast superstructure elements in ABC.