Case Study : Distortion Control in Orthotropic Steel Deck Welding

Abstract

Orthotropic Steel Deck (OSD) Bridge is typically a long span bridge around the world. The OSD bridge construction has numerous advantages. OSD has a complete steel superstructure, offering high stiffness to weight ratio, reduces the dead load on foundation of bridge and enables to provide longer span of bridge. This case study particularly deals with achieving bridge camber value during assembly and erection of Orthotropic Steel Deck by adopting suitable methodologies & techniques. The main challenges encountered during implementation of OSD bridge were (a) selecting suitable welding process/techniques, (b) shrinkage control during assembly and erection, (c) thermal expansion during weld joint fit up in marine environment. This case study may be useful for the construction industries adopting Orthotropic Steel Deck technology to construct long span bridges. One of typical span is sampled here to explain the above challenges and methods adopted to overcome them.