DISPLACEMENT-INDUCED FATIGUE CRACKING OF A BOX GIRDER BRIDGE

Unanticipated out-of-plane distortions as a result of the three dimensional behavior of structures have caused fatigue problems in welded bridge structures. This paper assesses the nature and causes of the distortion of the relatively small web gap of the web of curved box girders in the Ramp C Viaduct at the intersection of Interstate 695 and 83 near Baltimore, Maryland. The ultimate extent of cracking is evaluated, and a retrofit procedure is presented for the fatigue-damaged structure. (Author)