About the course:

This course provides training in the subject of analysis and design of steel girder bridges for fatigue and fracture. This learning is delivered through three modules. The first module provides the relevant background theory including an introduction to the fatigue problem, conditions for fatigue considerations, crack initiation and propagation, types of fatigue including load and distortion-induced fatigue, etc. A thorough treatment is provided for load-induced fatigue and how new bridge structures are designed for this limit state per AASHTO LRFD and CSA-S6-19. Relevant load combinations are outlined along with a few simple examples for the capacity side of the function, The approximate (simplified) method and the distribution factor determination per AASHTO LRFD and CSA-S6-19 (load side of the function) are discussed in detail. A brief introduction to refined analysis types and requirements is also provided. The second module provides details of the approximate/simplified and the refined analysis. This module primarily deals with modelling and analysis for fatigue using the parametric finite elements analysis software. Three different types of modelling techniques i.e. stick (beam), hybrid, and full finite element models are discussed in detail. The modelling and analysis details are demonstrated using two pre-proportioned example bridges. The third module provides application-based training through step-by-step design examples of select steel bridge components such as steel plate girder flanges and shear stud connectors. This will cover both load-induced and distortion-induced fatigue. In addition, detailing for distortion-based fatigue is discussed and demonstrated for various conditions and components.

  • Course Duration: 3 weeks (at 3 hours/week effort)

  • Suitability: 0 -15 years of Bridge Engineering Experience

  • FREE Access to Course Community Discussion Forum

  • Certificate for Successful Completion (8 PDH/CPD Hours)

Course curriculum

  • 1

    MODULE A: BRIDGE FATIGUE THEORY

    • What to Expect

    • PRESENTATION: Module A

    • Introduction and Types of Fatigue

    • QUIZ: Introduction and Types of Fatigue

    • Design Approach for Load-Induced Fatigue

    • Distortional Fatigue and Fatigue Detailing

    • Design for Fracture

    • QUIZ: Design Approach for Load-Induced Fatigue and Fracture

    • Types of Analysis

    • QUIZ: Types of Analysis
  • 2

    MODULE B: BRIDGE FATIGUE ANALYSIS

    • PRESENTATION: Module B

    • Simplified Analysis (CHBDC)

    • Simplified Analysis (AASHTO)

    • QUIZ: Simplified Analysis

    • Refined Analysis - Full FEA Example 1 (3D)

    • Refined Analysis - Full FEA Example 2 (3D)

    • QUIZ: Refined Analysis
  • 3

    MODULE C: TYPICAL DESIGN EXAMPLES

    • PRESENTATION: Module C

    • Example 1: Steel Plate Girder Bottom Flange Design

    • Example 2: Steel Plate Girder Top Flange Design

    • Example 3: Steel Plate Girder Shear Stud Design

    • Example 4: Web Fatigue Check (AASHTO LRFD)

    • Example 5: Fatigue Design of Splice Plates for Field Splices

    • QUIZ: MODULE C
  • 4

    CERTIFICATION

    • TEST

    • Test Answers & Explanations

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the context and background of the fatigue problem in structural steel bridges

  • Understand the two types of fatigue typically encountered in structural steel bridges

  • Be able to determine global and girder demands for steel girders in a bridge using both simplified and refined analyses (for both AASHTO LRFD and CSA-S6-19)

  • Determine the fatigue life of various details based on the S-N curve methodology enshrined in both AASHTO LRFD and CSA-S6-25

  • Understand the intent of fatigue limit state combinations

  • Be able to carry out the design of girder flanges according to the AASHTO LRFD and CSA-S6-19 load combinations

  • Be able to carry out the design of girder shear studs according to the AASHTO LRFD and CSA-S6-19 load combinations

  • Be able to carry out the design of girder web according to the AASHTO LRFD

  • Understand and apply the detailing principles to design for distortion-induced fatigue for different components and conditions

Course Fee

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