Book Description

This research project investigated the effects of pre-release cracks on girder camber, flexural cracking capacity, and steel stress ranges. The research included a parametric study investigating stress ranges in the prestressing strands in uncracked, cracked and partially cracked girder sections to determine if steel fatigue was a concern. An analytical study also was performed, which modeled several pre-release cracks, including models of two experimental girders that developed pre-release cracks, to determine the effect of various cracks on girder stress and camber. The study concluded that steel fatigue in the prestressing strand is a concern in girders that become cracked in service.