Large Studs for Composite Action in Steel Bridge Girders

Improved connection systems for composite action between steel girders and concrete decks to allow for rapid replacement of bridge decks are developed. The most common diameters of steel shear studs used in composite bridge construction are 19.1 mm (¾ in.) and 22.2 mm (7/8 in.), with a general height of 127 mm (5 in.). The strength of the proposed 31.8-mm (1¼-in.) studs is about twice that of the 22.2-mm(7/8-in.) studs. This increased strength would allow for fewer studs along the length of the steel girder, which would decrease the effort of deck removal from around these studs as well as decrease the probability of damage to these large studs and to the girder top flange. Research involves the feasibility of using studs with a diameter of 31.8 mm (1¼ in.) and a height of 127 mm (5 in.).