01732672

Component

http://www.trb.org/Publications/Blurbs/179567.aspx

Railroad flatcars (RRFCs) are an attractive option to replace existing deteriorating bridge structures on low-volume roads. They are typically used as the bridge superstructure by placing two or more flatcars side-by-side to achieve the desired roadway width. Utilizing RRFCs as a bridge allows for rapid construction by normal highway maintenance personnel using readily available equipment compared to traditional practices (Provines et al., 2014a). These benefits make them an attractive solution for rural communities. The unique superstructure of RRFCs creates a challenge when attempting to load rate these types of bridges. Unfortunately, there is no guidance in existing American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) specifications on load rating RRFC bridges, often resulting in overly conservative load postings. Utilizing the results of the previous work from other studies (Wipf et al., 1999; Wipf et al., 2007a; Wipf et al., 2007b; Provines et al., 2014b), proposed load rating guidelines were developed. The research project resulted in the development of AASHTO-ready specifications for rating RRFCs. Further, a proposed methodology to evaluate the redundancy of RRFC, in event one of the main longitudinal load-carrying members fails was also developed.

01730920

English

pp 343-346

2019-9

Transportation Research Circular

12th International Conference on Low-Volume Roads

Digital/other

Figures; Photos; References

Flat cars; Highway bridges; Load factor; Low volume roads; Redundancy; Specifications

Bridges and other structures; Design; Highways

TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Mar 2 2020 3:46PM