Lateral Stability

Lateral Stability

The potential for developing cracks due to additional tensile stress induced in a long prestressed concrete beam during lifting and transportation is a known problem. Another area of concern is the beam entering an unstable condition by rolling over along its longitudinal axis during transportation. This stability module in Precast/Prestressed Girder calculates the factor of safety against these undesirable conditions during lifting and transportation of long prestressed concrete beams under various support conditions. The program calculates the factors of safety against cracking and rollover, and stresses at critical points along the beam. The methodology follows the procedures outlined in PCI Journal articles by Dr. Robert Mast.

Currently Lateral Stability tool is only available for I Girders.

The main features of this module are:

• Analyzes the behavior of precast beams hanging from lifting loops
• Analyzes the behavior of precast beams supported on truck and trailer
• Evaluates the wind effects on beams hanging from lifting loops or supported by truck and trailer
• Evaluates the effect of inclined cables used for hanging beams
• Includes the dynamic/impact effects during transportation
• Graphically shows the variation of factors of safety with the overhang or support distance from the end
• Computes factors of safety against crack initiation and complete failure for precast beams hanging from lifting loops
• Computes factors of safety against crack initiation and rollover for beams supported on a truck and trailer during transportation