Comparison of Analytical and Finite element method of live load distribution in T Beam Girder Bridge

Abstract

T-Beam bridges are widely used for short span of varying from 12 m to 25 m because of their cost effectiveness despite of its complexity in analysis. Live load distribution is a crucial step in analysis of any type of bridge since it gives force or moment for which bridge components need to be designed. Among the various methods of live load distribution, comparison between Courbon’s Method, Morice-Little method and Finite element method has carried out herein. Present study aims to determine the most appropriate method of Live load distribution in T Beam Girder Bridge. Total eight bridge models were considered for the purpose of analysis with span varying from 12m to 24m i.e., 12m, 16m, 20m and 24m with three and four girders for each span. Finite element software SAP 2000 has used for Finite element analysis of Bridge. Finite element result were compared with Courbon’s method and Morice little method results.