The Sishen-Saldanha composite bridges : discussion

The paper explained the reasoning behind the decision to design the rail bridges on the Sishen-Saldanha scheme as composite bridges. Various facets of the design were discussed and the choice of specifications explained. Stud shear connector welding was dealt with in some detail and the precautions taken to minimize the risk of brittle fracture or fatigue failure was mentioned. In the paper certain of the difficulties encountered were described together with the necessary remedial measures taken.