Effects of Lateral Bracing on the Load Distribution and Torsional Behaviors in Continuous Two-Girder Bridges

In this study, we performed a loading test to evaluate the effect of load distribution on continuous two-span plate-girder bridges with or without bottom lateral bracing using one-fifth-scale bridge specimens. From the test results, when specimens with lateral bracing were loaded eccentrically, the load distribution capacity of the concrete deck and cross beam improved and greater loading was distributed to the other side of the girder subjected to loading. The load distribution rate of the specimens with and without lateral bracing system was evaluated from the analytical model that was verified by the test results. From the result of the quantitative evaluation, when specimen without lateral bracing was loaded eccentrically, mostly 21% of loading according to the concrete deck was distributed to the other side of the girder subjected to loading. However, when specimen with lateral bracing was loaded eccentrically, the load distribution rate increased by 1.7 times as all cross beams, bracing and concrete deck participated in load distribution. The reason is that the torsional rigidity increased as the model with lateral bracing behaved like a pseudo-closed box section.