• Journal of Korean Society of Steel Construction
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• v.19 no.6
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• pp.671-680
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• 2007

In this study, we performed a loading test to evaluate the effect of load distribution on continuous two-span plate-girder bridges with or without bottom lateral bracing using one-fifth-scale bridge specimens. From the test results, when specimens with lateral bracing were loaded eccentrically, the load distribution capacity of the concrete deck and cross beam improved and greater loading was distributed to the other side of the girder subjected to loading. The load distribution rate of the specimens with and without lateral bracing system was evaluated from the analytical model that was verified by the test results. From the result of the quantitative evaluation, when specimen without lateral bracing was loaded eccentrically, mostly 21% of loading according to the concrete deck was distributed to the other side of the girder subjected to loading. However, when specimen with lateral bracing was loaded eccentrically, the load distribution rate increased by 1.7 times as all cross beams, bracing and concrete deck participated in load distribution. The reason is that the torsional rigidity increased as the model with lateral bracing behaved like a pseudo-closed box section.

• Journal of Korean Society of Steel Construction
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• v.26 no.5
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• pp.407-418
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• 2014

As a continuing work of previously conducted standard tension tests, full-scale flexural tests were conducted in this study to assess the structural performance the CJP groove welded joints connecting thick HSA800 plates. Two welding electrodes were available at the time of this experimental research; one was GMAW-based electrode A and the other FCAW-based electrode B. Three full-scale box-type beam specimens with single bevel- and V-groove CJP welded joints were fabricated from 60mm and 25mm thick HSA800 plates according to the AWS-prequalified groove welded joint details. In designing the specimens, all possible limit states like local and lateral torsional buckling were carefully controlled in order to induce flexural plastic yielding or eventual joint fracture. All the CJP joints made by both welding electrodes showed satisfactory performance and were able to transfer the tensile flange forces higher than that corresponding to the measured tensile strength of HSA800 flange plates. However, it should be noted that, during fabrication, serious concerns about the welding efficiency and workability of the GMAW-based electrode were raised by a certified welder. The fracture occurred at the unbeveled (or vertical) interface between the weldment and the base metal when the GMAW-based electrode was used in the single-bevel joint, implying the possibility of insufficient melting. Thus, the FCAW-based electrode B is again recommended as the choice of welding electrode for HSA800 plates. The limited test data of this study implies that the V-groove CJP joint should be used in favor of the single bevel CJP joint, if possible.