Shear connection in composite bridge beams
The role of shear connectors in bridge construction is significant for the structure’s strength and durability. Shear connectors are placed on top flanges of the steel girders to facilitate composite action between the slab and the girders, thus offering the structure more strength and stiffness. If there were no shear connectors in bridges, the beam and slab would bend, degrading the structure’s quality. Shear connectors in composite bridge beams halt the slip between the beam and the slab, which leads to improved quality and reliability of the construction. The spacing of shear connectors in bridge construction is determined by the shear force design between the girder and the slab.
Shear connectors in bridge construction generally have a height of 150 mm and diameter diameter of 19 mm. Other specifications of shear connectors are also used, but they are not as common. Headed shear studs are the most typically used shear connectors for bridge construction. However, the use of alternatives such as channel stud connectors is bridge is also prevalent. Whereas headed shear stud connectors are required to space closely, channel shear connectors are used in bridges where larger shear transfer is required. Shear connectors for bridges are mainly intended for fatigue loading and static strength. The shear flow in a girder is the highest at the support and then varies elsewhere. Hence, the number and spacing of shear connectors in bridge construction is varied to ensure adequate shear resistance for economy. In shear stud connected bridges, shear flow needs to be calculated at the support, midspan and at the quarter points to obtain a shear flow profile along a girder. The need to calculate shear flow at the point of major changes in the beam section may also arise.
In a construction that uses studs on steel composite, the geometry of steel metal deck might reduce the strength of the shear studs on metal deck. Composite decks display a better resistance to bending, and thus allow much flexibility in floor spans. Shear stud connectors on metal decks are a vital part of such decking, and play a significant role in making the construction stronger and more durable.
Artech’s Shear connectors are used in several iconic bridges and infrastructure projects around India. These include the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road, JRD Tata Flyover and others. Certified by leading agencies, Artech works as a trusted partner to leading EPCs such as Gammon India, L&T and several others.