Types of Prestressed Concrete Bridge Decks Info Sheet

There are many types of deck systems for a prestressed concrete bridge.

For decks that utilizes only solid or voided slab, their construction is simple. However, these sections are usually inefficient and only suitable for short spans.

Alternatively, precast beams may be added to a bridge deck. The use of precast beams can reduce the workload on site as the casting process is done under factory condition. Moreover, the construction is repetitive and thus, it can be conducted rapidly. However, good access and heavy lifting equipment are demanded for the construction of bridges with precast beams.

Box girder may be used instead of beams. These sections are efficient and therefore, they are suitable for wide ranges of span. They are aesthetically pleasing and suitable for complex geometry. Bridge deck construction using box girder can be rapid and simple. Nonetheless, the use this system is usually associated with high cost.

Cable-stayed decks are suitable and economical for very long span. It is also highly aesthetically pleasing. In return, the design of a cable-stayed bridge is complicated, and it is often constructed in sophisticated ways.