Why is the span length ratio of end span/approach span to its neighboring inner spans usually about 0.75?

From aesthetic point of view, an odd number of spans with a decrease in length in the direction of abutment is desirable. Moreover, spans of equal length are found to be boring. However, the arrangement of irregular span lengths is not recommended because it gives a feeling of uneasiness. From structural point of view, for … Read more

In the design of a simply supported skew bridge, which direction of reinforcement should be provided?

In the conventional design of steel reinforcement for a simply supported skew bridge, a set of reinforcement is usually placed parallel to free edge while the other set is designed parallel to the fixed edge. However, this kind of arrangement is not the most efficient way of placing the reinforcement. The reason is that in … Read more

What are the functions of different components of a typical expansion joint?

We all know that concrete is vulnerable to temperature changes it usually shrinks and expands due to some temperature variations, in such a condition most of the times a crack is intentionally introduced so that any expansion or shrinkage in a panel would not produce uncontrolled cracks as a result of stress production within the … Read more

Under what situation shall engineers use jacking at one end only and from both ends in prestressing work?

Prestressing is now a must-to-have phenomenon in every mega project whether it includes flyovers or dam or whatever. During the design procedures a very important question that arises in the mind of the engineer is; whether to use jacking at one end only or from both ends.  Jacking at one end or both ends The … Read more

Treatment of dampness in walls in many ways

Dampness is the cause, reason and initiator of many defects and diseases in all sorts of construction from roads and transport systems to building and housing facilities. It might be a headache for you in rainy season and it might not let you sleep easily because of the danger and consequences of its presence. This … Read more