New Structural Forms for Steel/Concrete Composite Bridges

A design strategy aimed at making steel bridges more economical is proposed, which combines steel with concrete and avoids welding during fabrication. Concrete-filled steel girders have high strength and ductility and would provide a rational and economical solution for bridges. Steel mill products or cold-forming work during the fabrication process can substantially reduce the amount of welding and should be used more for the main girders. Five composite bridges have been developed using steel pipes or cold-formed steel girders. The structural behaviour and strength of these bridges have been studied, and their forms have been used in designs of target projects. These studies show that the construction of these composite bridges is feasible and economical.