摘要: |
The Acceler-8 Interstate 90 (1-90) bridge replacement project outside of Boston epitomized rapid bridge-replacement and bridge-bundling techniques. The challenge was to replace eight bridges in eight weekends during the summer of 2021. The use of precast concrete components was essential to the successful completion of every crossing. Initially, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) considered prefabricated bridge units (PBUs) composed of steel beams with a precast concrete deck. However, the final design used Northeast Extreme Tee Deck (NEXT D) beams as an alternative technical concept along with precast concrete approach slabs and abutment caps. "We chose an innovative solution and selected precast, prestressed NEXT D beams. NEXT D beams were more economical than the proposed PBU option from the base technical concept, due to lower material and fabrication costs, including reduced handling. PBUs require fabrication in both steel and precast concrete plants, whereas NEXT D beams require fabrication in only a precasting plant," says Joseph Gill, PE, president, Gill Engineering. |