Full Depth Precast Deck Slabs
Full depth precast deck slabs are one of the most common prefabricated deck systems. With this system, the deck is poured and cast in section before being delivered and installed at the bridge site. The reinforcing in the concrete deck is generally either mild reinforcement or prestressing.
Full depth precast deck panels are used as an alternative to cast-in-place concrete decks. They provide a driving surface for traffic.
In the longitudinal direction of the panels, the panels will be connected progressively and small reinforced closure pours can be used. In the distribution direction of the panels, grouted shear key connections are used.
This system has been used by a number of states and significant research has been performed to improve the technology. A Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) Bridge Technical committee has published design and detailing standards for full depth precast deck slabs making design easier for the engineer. (See “Full Depth Deck Panels Guidelines for Accelerated Bridge Deck Replacement or Construction, Second Edition.”)
Photo Credit: Utility Concrete Products
What is a bridge deck?
The decking system of a bridge can be defined as the surface upon which the traversing traffic drives. This is the surface which is used as a continuation of the driving surface on either side of the bridge.
Commonly, cast-in-place concrete is used as the method of placing a deck on a short span bridge, but due to the time of preparing formwork, it can be a very time-consuming process.
Prefabricated deck systems are some of the most commonly used applications of modular bridge technology.
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