PSC Precast Segmental Box
1. Introduction
Segmental Bridge is built in short
erections, one piece at a time.
The segments are erected at site
The bridge is either cast-in-situ or precast
2. History
Firstly used in Western Europe in France
& Germany during 1950s
First precast segmental concrete bridge
built in 1962, across the Seine river in
France
In India, 250 km long bridge was
constructed over Barak river in 1960-61
3. Construction Method
Casting of Segments
Transfer of segments to erection site
Erection of Segments
Epoxy Gluing
External Prestressing
Grouting
3.1 Casting of Segments
Short Line Method: Segment
production is slow. Three to four
segments at a time
Long Line Method: In this Segment
production is fast. Segments equal to one
span cast at a time
3.2 Transfer of segments to erection site
After casting segments are transferred to
erection site with the help of traveller or
crane
3.3 Erection of Segments
Precast segments are erected at site by
following methods:
3.3.1 Balanced Cantilever erection
3.3.2 Progressive Placement erection
3.3.3 Span by Span erection
3.3.4 Incremental Launching erection
3.3.1 Balanced Cantilever Erection
Segments are attached in alternate
manner at opposite ends of cantilevers
supported by piers
3.3.2 Progressive Placement Erection
Progressive placement with cranes or
lifting frames is time consuming
technique due to single work location
It is considered for 30-90m spans where
construction access is restricted to one or
both ends
3.3.3 Span by Span Erection
It is the most common, simplest and cost
effective method
It is compatible with simply supported
and continuous spans
3.3.4 Incremental Launching Erection
The casting yard is located behind bridge
abutment.
Each segment is prestressed to the
superstructure section already built. The
entire superstructure is jacked forward a
distance equal to the segment length
3.4 External Prestressing
It is used for giving final strength to the
Bridge
Pre Tension method
Post Tension Method
3.5 Epoxy Gluing
Epoxy Gluing is used in between two
segments to prevent the leakage of grout
during grouting
3.6 Grouting
The main purpose of grouting is to
provide protection against corrosion and
develop the bond between prestressing
steel and surrounding concrete
4. Advantages
Economical for long span
Prefabricated segments provide more
quality control
The structure can be fully loaded
immediately after being prestressed
Low weight due to thin bridge sections
The structure geometry may be adapted
to any horizontal or vertical curvature or
any required roadway superelevation.
5. Disadvantages
Need of higher level of technology in
design
high degree of dimensional control
during manufacture and erection of the
segments
High safety precautions required
6. Conclusion
Ideal for Bridge Construction giving
aesthetical view and good quality
Longer span bridges now possible
Less construction time
Environment friendly construction
