Rational Procedure in the Design of Bridges Using Pre-stressed Concrete Beams — A Theoretical Practical Method in Search of Sustainable Structures

Abel Noé Xochicale Cortés

Despacho de Puentes, Stratega P y S S. C., Ciudad de México

Abstract: Currently there is not a direct procedure for the design for this system of bridges, according to methods approved by the respective authorities, the procedure is still based on trial and error, there are no studies that give us both the optimal number of girders or the other characteristics of this type of structures like the right thickness of slab or proper resistance, taking into account the concept of optimization, which supports the idea of sustainability and more environmentally friendly designs, the idea of applying this concept to the design of bridges based on pre-stressed concrete beams, which are an integral part of the road network of most countries around the world. Knowing also that concrete is the most produced material by man and that without it would be difficult to understand our current world, due to its own characteristics that make it unique if it is a matter of sustainability, however, its production requires energy and consumption of materials, that is why an optimal design of a superstructure will lead to the minimum consumption of materials while obtaining a design more friendly to nature. It is a global necessity to obtain and deliver concrete structures that meet sustainability conditions.

Key words: bridges, girders, concrete, pre-stressing, sustainability, optimization, AASHTO, live and dead loading