This study concerns the safety factor and the reliability calculation for structural codes. The Eurocodes are used as a reference. Safety factor calculation is a demanding task which necessitates using an appropriate root-solving algorithm with a sufficient numerical accuracy. This article introduces a simple algorithm to calculate the safety factors directly, as previously there has been no means to control the accuracy. Presently, the safety factors are defined indirectly through the reliability index. The basic safety factor calculation is presented here in six different equations with the same outcome but differences regarding the numerical calculation, which provides a method to check the accuracy and select a proper equation for the root solver. The safety factor calculation for the permanent and the variable load in the Eurocodes is based on the independent, i.e., random, load combination and single load pairs. The current approach of safety factor calculation applied in the Eurocodes is disclosed here. Simple analytical equations based on the convolution equation are presented. Those can be used instead of the computer programs applied currently.
The objective of the current study is to investigate and evaluate the flexural behavior of the continuity connection of precast prestressed concrete beams in negative bending when the tendons are located at the compression side. The experimental program included four T-shaped composite cantilever beams which were loaded up to failure. The main variable of the tests was the amount of prestress force of the connected precast beams. The reinforcement ratio of continuity connection was high. The ultimate flexural capacities and moment-curvature relations were calculated theoretically. A comparison was then carried out between both the experimental and theoretical results. These experiments revealed that prestress force did not influence the ultimate hogging moment capacity of the continuity connection, but it had an effect on its soffit's compression cracking and spalling of the concrete cover before failure. This study also indicated that confinement of the concrete had a massive influence on the connection's behavior, and it increased both its negative moment capacity and ductility.
In concrete beam bridges, the end diaphragm at the end of the bridge is a common structural component that connects the main beams and transfers the beam loads to the bridge bearings. In integral bridges the end diaphragm also retains the soil of embankments due to the absence of abutments. Cracking of the front surface on the end diaphragm has been detected in post-tensioned beam bridges in Finland and Sweden. Presumably the post-tensioning of the bridge and the shaping and detailing of the connection of the end diaphragm and main beam have an effect on cracking tendency. The aim of this study is to examine the structural behaviour and the cracking potential of end diaphragms using linear analysis of the post-tensioned bridge and to find measures to prevent the cracking.
The observations collected through field surveys are compared to results of linear FE analysis to clarify the cause of the cracking. The verification of model is performed by comparison of patterns of cracking observed in field surveys and the distribution of maximum tensile stresses in the FE model. With model variations, the effectiveness of measures for the prevention of cracking are observed.
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