Parameters analysis and design of transverse connection strengthening prestressed concrete T‐girder bridge

Abstract Transverse connection strengthening prestressed concrete T‐girder bridge is an effective method to enhance the integrality of the T‐girder bridge. In a previous work, a new kind of diaphragm transverse connections (DTCs) has been proposed and its validity has been proved. Aiming to study the influential parameters for the strengthening effect, finite element analysis is carried out based on a 30 m prestressed concrete T‐girder bridge in this study. The considered influential parameters are T‐girder spacing, T‐girder height, brace thickness, and installation location of the DTCs. The deflections and load distribution factors of the prestressed concrete T‐girder bridge are calculated to evaluate the impact of each parameter on the strengthening effect. Furthermore, the influence of brace thickness and T‐girder height on axial forces of the DTCs and connection force is studied. The results show that the strengthening effect with DTCs installed at midspan is the best option. With T‐girder height increasing, the deflections of the T‐girder reduce and the maximum load distribution factor increases. Besides, increasing the brace thickness of DTCs or decreasing the T‐girder spacing improves the strengthening effect. By comparing the axial force with the buckling critical force, it shows that the stability of the braces is adequate. Finally, design recommendations are given for the 30 m prestressed concrete T‐girder bridge strengthening.