This course presents the types of bridge stiffeners, their axial resistance, and bearing resistance. The text analyzes the constructability and strength limit of flange splice bolts, and the maintenance of bearings. Various constructability checks and service limit state checks while using different types of bridge stiffeners is also discussed. The material is based on Steel Bridge Design Handbook: Three-Span Continuous Horizontally Curved Composite Steel Tub-Girder Bridge FHWA-IF-12-052 – Vol. 25, Chapter 7.

At the conclusion of this course, the learner will have a better understanding about the role of bridge stiffeners in composite steel tub-girder bridges, as well as an understanding of the following topics: 

• Positive flexure strength limit state design forces
• Lateral bracing design of top flanges of top girders
• Negative flexure strength limit state design forces
• Strength limit state check of bridge stiffeners
• Top flange lateral bracing design