STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS OF THE BEHAVIOR OF POST-TENSIONED BEAMS IN THE DECK OF THE CANUTO BRIDGE IN MANABÍ, ECUADOR

Abstract

This study analyzes the structural behavior of the post-tensioned beams of the Canuto Bridge in Manabí, Ecuador, by verifying post-tension losses, stresses during transfer and service stages, flexural and shear capacity, and maximum deflections under live and service loads. A post-tension loss of 19.02% was identified, within expected values. Stresses in the transfer stage were within permissible limits, but excessive tension was observed in the lower fiber during the service stage, exceeding the concrete's rupture limit. The flexural design showed a slight deficiency in the outer beams, with a demand/capacity ratio of 1.02. Regarding shear, the structure exhibited high resistance capacity, with a demand/capacity ratio of 0.43. Although the maximum deflection under vehicular load was acceptable, service load deflection control revealed the need for a camber to mitigate excessive deflections. The use of CSi Bridge software allowed for the validation of the bridge's mathematical model, demonstrating its effectiveness in evaluating complex structures. These findings contribute to the safe and efficient design of post-tensioned infrastructure.

Keywords: structural analysis, post-tensioned concrete, post-tension losses, CSi Bridge, flexural capacity, shear capacity, deflections.