STANDARD DESIGNS FOR HARDWOOD GLUED-LAMINATED HIGHWAY BRIDGES

Standard plans and specifications for hardwood glued laminated highway bridges have been developed and published. The plans are based on recent research to identify laminating processes, resin systems, structural properties of efficient beam cross sections, and preservative treatment processes. The results of these efforts are summarized. The standard plans are based upon nationally recognized allowable strength design methodologies and are for HS-25 or IML-80 loads. The standard plans, which are for northern red oak, red maple, and yellow poplar bridges, include details for design and construction of highway bridge superstructures and substructures. The standard plans and specifications are being revised. The status of efforts to incorporate design efficiencies suggested by ongoing research and to convert the standard plans to a load resistance factor design basis are also presented.