Design Guides 3.3.

4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design

3.3.4 LRFD Composite Beam Design for Straight Bridges

This design guide focuses on the LRFD design of steel rolled shape beams in positive moment
regions which are composite with the deck. A design procedure is presented first with an
example given afterward for a simple span bridge. The presented information, guidance, and
example design calculations are also largely applicable to plate girder beams as well as the
positive moment areas of continuous bridges.

Design of steel sections varies significantly between the AASHTO LFD and LRFD Codes.
While essentially the same limit states are checked in both codes, differences in design
equations and specification layout make a direct step-by-step (side-by-side) comparison of the
two codes impractical. At selected points in this design guide, however, the two codes are
compared and contrasted with commentary.

For the purpose of this design guide and as general statement of IDOT policy, bridges with steel
superstructures are designed to behave compositely in positive moment regions.

When the AASHTO LRFD Code refers to members as I-sections, it is referring to any I-shaped
steel section. Rolled wide flange sections and welded plate girders both qualify. The AASHTO
LRFD Code presents steel I-section design for composite action in positive moment regions in a
straightforward and organized manner. Article 6.10, the starting point for I-section flexural
members, outlines the necessary limit state checks and their respective code references as
follows:

1) Cross-Section Proportion Limits (6.10.2)

2) Constructibility (6.10.3)
3) Service Limit State (6.10.4)
4) Fatigue and Fracture Limit State (6.10.5)
5) Strength Limit State (6.10.6)

In addition, composite wide flange and plate girder sections require the design of diaphragms,
stud shear connectors and splices (for typical continuous structures). Departmental diaphragm
details and policies for bridges designed according to the LRFD and LFD Specifications can be

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Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
found in Sections 3.3.22 and 3.3.23 of the Bridge Manual. Design and detailing policies for
stud shear connectors for LRFD and LFD are covered in Section 3.3.9 of the Bridge Manual.
Design Guide 3.3.9 addresses LRFD only. Splice design for LRFD and LFD is addressed in
Section 3.3.21 of the Bridge Manual. Design Guide 3.3.21 covers LRFD only.

LRFD Composite Design Procedure, Equations, and Outline

Determine Trial Section

Two important considerations (among others) for selecting a trial beam section are:

Section depth is normally dictated by the Type, Size, and Location Plan. As section
depth affects roadway clearance, it should not be changed during the design process of
a bridge unless there are extenuating circumstances.

Section weight is chosen largely by trial and error. Usually, a lighter section is chosen
for a given web depth, and this section is increased as required.

Determine Composite Section Properties

Determine Effective Flange Width (4.6.2.6)

For bridges with typical overhangs and beam spacings, interior beams typically control the
design of all beams interior and exterior. See Section 3.3.1 of the Bridge Manual for more
information.

The effective flange width (in.) shall be taken as the tributary width perpendicular to the axis
of the member. For non-flared bridges with equal beam spacings where the overhang width
is less than half the beam spacing, the tributary width is equal to the beam spacing. For the
atypical situation when the overhang is greater than half the beam spacing, the tributary
width is equal to half the beam spacing plus the overhang width.

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Section Properties

Once the effective flange width is calculated, the composite section properties are
calculated by transforming the concrete section. For normal-weight concrete with a
minimum 28-day compressive strength (f’c) between 2.8 ksi and 3.6 ksi, the concrete section
is transformed using a modular ratio of 9 (C6.10.1.1.1b). The following composite section
properties are used in steel I-section design for positive moment:

Elastic Neutral Axis from Bottom of Tension Flange, or Yb (in.)

Plastic Neutral Axis from Top of Slab, or Dp (in.)
Composite Moment of Inertia, or Ic (in.4)
Short-Term Composite Section Modulus Based on Tension Flange , or Sn=9 (in.3)
Long-Tem Composite Section Modulus Based on Tension Flange, or Sn=27 (in.3)
First Moment of Transformed Section, or Q (in.3)

Section weight is calculated using the full concrete section width. Typically, the beam
weight is multiplied by a detail factor between 1.1 and 1.2 to account for the weight of
diaphragms, splice plates, and other attachments.

Calculate Moments and Shears

Using the dead loads, live loads, and load and distribution factors, calculate moments and
shears for the bridge. See Section 3.3.1 of the Bridge Manual for more information.
Moments and shears have different distribution factors and differing load factors based upon
the limit state being checked as explained in greater detail later in this design guide.

Check Cross-Section Proportion Limits (6.10.2)

Although wide-flange sections are typically “stocky” or “stout” enough that all cross-section
proportional limits are met, many of the computations in this section are useful in later
aspects of design. Proportional limits typically carry more significance with plate girders and
are indicators of section stability.

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Check Web Proportions

Webs without longitudinal stiffeners (wide-flange sections typically do not have longitudinal
stiffeners and plate girders built in Illinois only occasionally have them – See Section 3.3.20
of the Bridge Manual) shall be proportioned such that:

D
≤ 150 (Eq. 6.10.2.1.1-1)
tw

Where:
tw = web thickness (in.)
D = web depth (in.). For wide-flanges, this is the clear distance between top and
bottom flanges (d – 2tf; where: d = section depth (in.) and tf = flange thickness
(in.))

This check is identical to the upper limit for LFD Braced Noncompact Sections found in
Article 10.48.2.1(b) of the AASHTO LFD Code.

Check Flange Proportions

Compression and tension flanges of the non-composite section shall meet the following
requirements:

bf
i) ≤ 12.0 (Eq. 6.10.2.2-1)
2t f

D
ii) b f ≥ (Eq. 6.10.2.2-2)
6

iii) t f ≥ 1.1 t w (Eq. 6.10.2.2-3)

I yc
iv) 0.1 ≤ ≤ 10 (Eq. 6.10.2.2-4)
I yt

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Where:
bf = flange width of the non-composite section (in.)
tf = flange thickness of the non-composite section (in.)
Iyc = moment of inertia of the compression flange of the steel section about the
vertical axis in the plane of the web (in.4)
Iyt = moment of inertia of the tension flange of the steel section about the vertical
axis in the plane of the web (in.4)

Note: Due to symmetry, Iyc and Iyt are identical for wide-flange sections. Therefore,
requirement iv) is always satisfied for rolled shapes.

Requirement i) is identical to LFD Braced Noncompact Sections.

Check Constructibility (6.10.3)

Constructibility requirements are necessary to ensure that the main load-carrying members
are adequate to withstand construction loadings. The non-composite section shall be able
to support the wet concrete deck and other live loads during pouring.

Construction loads use Strength I load factors. As there is no future wearing surface during
construction, the load condition simplifies to:

MCONST
STRENGTH I = γp(DCCONST)+1.75(LL+IM)CONST (Table 3.4.1-1)

Where:
γp = 1.25 for construction loading (3.4.2.1)
DCCONST = dead load of beam, unhardened slab concrete, reinforcement, and
formwork. According to Article 3.2.2.1 of the AASHTO LRFD Bridge
Construction Specifications, the combined weight of unhardened slab
concrete, reinforcement, and formwork shall not be taken as less than
0.160 kcf for normal-weight concrete. The slab and reinforcement are
normally assumed to weigh 0.150 kcf. As such, the formwork is
assumed to add 10 pcf for formwork.

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LLCONST = live load of construction equipment and workers. The Department
requires that a minimum live load of 20 psf should be considered.
This minimum live load accounts for the weight of the finishing
machine and other live loads during construction.

Check Discretely Braced Compression Flanges

IDOT standard diaphragm details serve as points of discrete bracing for the top and bottom
flanges. For wide flange shapes, LRFD Equations 6.10.3.2.1-1 and 6.10.3.2.1-2 should
typically be checked because their webs are not slender. For plate girders with slender
webs, Equation 6.10.3.2.1-3 should checked instead of 6.10.3.2.1-1.

i) fbu + fl ≤ φ f R hFyc (Eq. 6.10.3.2.1-1)

1
ii) fbu + fl ≤ φ f Fnc (Eq. 6.10.3.2.1-2)
3

Where:
fbu = factored flange stress due to vertical loads (ksi)
MCONST
STRENGTH I
= , where Snc is the non-composite section modulus
S nc
fl = lateral flange bending stress (ksi) due to cantilever forming brackets and
skew effects. Note that this term should typically be taken as zero for a
majority of typical bridges if the requirements of Article 503.06 of the IDOT
Standard Specifications are met and the bridge skew is less than or equal to
45°. See also Sections 3.3.5 and 3.3.26 of the Bridge Manual.
φf = resistance factor for flexure, equal to 1.00 according to LRFD Article 6.5.4.2
Rh = hybrid factor specified in Article 6.10.1.10.1, equal to 1.0 for non-hybrid
sections.
Fyc = yield strength of the compression flange (ksi)
Fnc = nominal flexural resistance of the flange (ksi), taken as the lesser Fnc(FLB)
(6.10.8.2.2) and Fnc(LTB) (6.10.8.2.3 or A6.3.3). Fnc(LTB) using Article 6.10.8.2.3
is presented here.

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Where:
Fnc(FLB) = Local Buckling Resistance (ksi), specified in Article 6.10.8.2.2,
defined as follows:

For λf ≤ λpf:

Fnc(FLB) = RbRhFyc (Eq. 6.10.8.2.2-1)

Otherwise:

⎡ ⎛ Fyr ⎞ ⎛ λ f − λ pf ⎞⎤
Fnc(FLB) = ⎢1 − ⎜1 − ⎟⎜ ⎟⎥ R R F (Eq. 6.10.8.2.2-2)
⎜
⎢⎣ ⎝ R h Fyc ⎟ ⎜ λ rf − λ pf ⎟⎥ b h yc
⎠⎝ ⎠⎦

Where:
Fyr = compression flange stress at the onset of nominal yielding
within the cross section, taken as the smaller of 0.7Fyc and
Fyw (yield strength of the web), but not smaller than 0.5Fyc.
λf = slenderness ratio of compression flange
b fc
= (Eq. 6.10.8.2.2-3)
2 t fc

λpf = limiting slenderness ratio for a compact flange

E
= 0.38 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.2-4)
Fyc

λrf = limiting slenderness ratio for a noncompact flange

E
= 0.56 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.2-5)
Fyr

Rb = web load-shedding factor, specified in Article 6.10.1.10.2.

Equal to 1.0 when checking constructability. See LRFD
commentary C6.10.1.10.2.

Fnc(LTB) = Lateral-Torsional Buckling Resistance (ksi), specified in Article

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6.10.8.2.3. For the purposes of calculating Fnc(LTB), variables Lb, Lp,
and Lr, are defined as follows:

Lb = unbraced length (in.)

Lp = limiting unbraced length to achieve nominal flexural resistance
under uniform bending (in.)

E
= 1.0 rt (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-4)
Fyc

Lr = limiting unbraced length for inelastic buckling behavior under

uniform bending (in.)
E
= π rt (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-5)
Fyr

Where:
b fc
rt = (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-9)
⎛ 1 Dc t w ⎞
12 ⎜⎜1 + ⎟
⎝ 3 b fc t fc ⎟⎠

Dc = depth of web in compression, calculated according to

Article D6.3.1. For constructability checks, Dc for the non-
composite section simplifies to 0.5D.

Fnc(LTB) is then calculated as follows:

For Lb ≤ Lp:

Fnc(LTB) = RbRhFyc (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-1)

For Lp < Lb ≤ Lr:

⎡ ⎛ Fyr ⎞ ⎛ Lb − Lp ⎞⎤
Fnc(LTB) = C b ⎢1 − ⎜1 − ⎟⎜ ⎟⎥ R b R h Fyc ≤ R b R h Fyc
⎢⎣ ⎜⎝ R h Fyc ⎟ ⎜ Lr − Lp ⎟⎥
⎠⎝ ⎠⎦
(Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-2)

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For Lb > Lr:

Fnc = Fcr ≤ RbRhFyc (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-3)

Where:
Fyr = as defined above
Fcr = elastic lateral-torsional buckling stress (ksi)
C b R b π 2E
= 2
(Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-8)
⎛ Lb ⎞
⎜⎜ ⎟⎟
⎝ rt ⎠

Where:
Cb = moment gradient modifier, defined as follows:

fmid
For > 1, or f2 = 0:
f2

Cb = 1.0 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-6)

Otherwise:

2
⎛f ⎞ ⎛f ⎞
Cb = 1.75 – 1.05 ⎜⎜ 1 ⎟⎟ + 0.3 ⎜⎜ 1 ⎟⎟ ≤ 2.3 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-7)
⎝ f2 ⎠ ⎝ f2 ⎠
Where:
fmid = stress due to factored vertical loads at the
middle of the unbraced length of the compression
flange (ksi). This is found using the moment that
produces the largest compression at the point
under consideration. If this point is never in
compression, the smallest tension value shall be
used. fmid is positive for compression values, and
negative for tension values.
f2 = largest compressive stress due to factored

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Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
vertical loads at either end of the unbraced length
of the compression flange (ksi). This is found using
the moment that produces the largest compression
and taken as positive at the point under
consideration. If the stress is zero or tensile in the
flange under consideration at both ends of the
unbraced length, f2 shall be taken as zero.
f0 = stress due to factored vertical loads at the
brace point opposite the point corresponding to f2
(ksi), calculated similarly to f2 except that the value
shall be the largest value in compression taken as
positive or the smallest value in tension taken as
negative if the point under consideration is never in
compression.
f1 = stress at the brace point opposite to the one
corresponding to f2, calculated as the intercept of
the most critical assumed linear stress variation
passing through f2 and either fmid or f0, whichever
produces the smallest value of Cb (ksi). f1 may be
determined as follows:

When the variation of the moment along the entire

length between the brace points is concave:

f1 = f0 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-10)

Otherwise:

f1 = 2fmid – f2 ≥ f0 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-11)

Note: For single-span bridges there is no

contraflexure point. Consequently, the moment
curve will always be concave for the entire length
between the brace points, and f1 will equal f0.

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Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design

Check Discretely Braced Tension Flanges

fbu + fl ≤ φ f R hFyt (Eq. 6.10.3.2.2-1)

Where all variables and assumptions are identical to those used for checking the
compression flange.

While the equations used in LRFD Lateral Torsional Buckling checks are similar to those
used in checking LFD Partially Braced Members, the LRFD equations could result in slightly
larger sections for some cases. If the designer prefers, a procedure more analogous to the
LFD design procedure may be used in LRFD designs. This procedure is found in Article
A6.3.3 of the appendices.

Note: While the procedure in Article A6.3.3 is similar to the LFD procedure, it is not exactly
the same. For this reason, the AASHTO LFD Code shall not be used in substitution of this
procedure.

Articles 6.10.3.2.4, 6.10.3.4 and 6.10.3.5 involve consideration of issues arising from
bridges with pouring sequences, staged construction, loading sequences during
construction, etc. For a particular typical bridge, these articles may or may not apply. The
commentaries, however, provide useful guidance to the engineer. Article 6.10.3.3 examines
shear forces in webs during construction loading. As the final Strength I shears are usually
much greater than construction loading shears, this generally does not control the design.

Check Service Limit State (6.10.4)

The purpose of the service limit state requirements are to prevent excessive deflections
(possibly from yielding or slip in connections) due to severe traffic loading in a real-life
situation. Service II load factors are used for these checks: the actual dead loads are
applied (load factor of 1.00), along with 1.3 times the projected live load plus impact.

MSERVICE II = 1.00(DC1 + DC2)+1.00(DW)+1.30(LL+IM) (Table 3.4.1-1)

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Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design

For this load case, the following flange requirements shall be met:

The top steel flange of composite sections shall satisfy:

( )
f f ≤ 0.95 (R h ) Fyf (6.10.4.2.2-1)

In positive moment regions of beams which have been made composite with the deck,
this check is satisfied by inspection for most typical bridges.

The bottom steel flange of composite sections shall satisfy:

ff +
fl
2
( )
≤ 0.95 (R h ) Fyf (Eq. 6.10.4.2.2-2)

Where:
ff = flange stress due to factored vertical Service II loads (ksi), calculated as
follows:
MDC1 MDC2 + MDW 1.3 (MLL +IM )
= + + (Eq. D6.2.2-1)
S nc S n=27 S n=9

Again, for straight interior beams with skews less than or equal to 45°, fl can be
assumed to be zero.

Equation 6.10.4.2.2-3 is only necessary for non-composite sections. As stated in Section

3.3.2 of the Bridge Manual, the live load deflection and span-to-depth ratio provisions of
Article 2.5.2.6.2, referenced by Article 6.10.4.1, are only applicable to bridges with
pedestrian traffic. Equation 6.10.4.2.2-4 only need be checked when the web cross-section
proportion limit is not satisfied.

The requirements for Service Limit State correspond to the requirements of the LFD
Overload requirements found in Article 10.57 of the AASHTO LFD Code.

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Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
Check Fatigue and Fracture Limit State (6.10.5)

Fatigue and fracture limit state requirements are necessary to prevent beams and
connections from failing due to repeated loadings. This limit state uses the fatigue load
combination found in Table 3.4.1-1:

MFATIGUE = 0.75(LL+IM+CE) (Table 3.4.1-1)

For the fatigue load combination, all moments are calculated using the fatigue truck
specified in Article 3.6.1.4. The fatigue truck is similar to the HL-93 truck, but with a
constant 30 ft. rear axle spacing and no distributed loading. The fatigue truck loading
uses a different Dynamic Load Allowance of 15% (Table 3.6.2.1-1).

Note: The fatigue truck loading does not use multiple presence factors. The value of
the live load distribution factor shall be divided by 1.2 when finding moments from the
fatigue truck (3.6.1.1.2).

The full section shall satisfy the following equation:

γ (Δf ) ≤ (ΔF)n (Eq. 6.6.1.2.2-1)

Where:
γ = Fatigue load factor, specified as 0.75 (Table 3.4.1-1)
(Δf ) = Fatigue load combination stress range (ksi)
+ −
MFATIGUE − MFATIGUE
=
S n =9

(ΔF)n = nominal fatigue resistance (ksi), taken as the greater of 75-year resistance or
infinite life resistance
1
⎛ A ⎞3 1
= ⎜ ⎟ ≥ (ΔF)TH (Eq. 6.6.1.2.5-1)
⎝N⎠ 2

Where:
(ΔF)TH = constant-amplitude fatigue threshold (ksi), taken from

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Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
Table 6.6.1.2.5-3
A = constant from Table 6.6.1.2.5-1 (ksi3).
⎛ 365 days ⎞ ⎛ n cycles ⎞⎛ ( ADTT ) SL trucks ⎞
N = ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟(75 years)⎜ ⎟⎜⎜ ⎟⎟
⎝ year ⎠ ⎝ truck ⎠⎝ day ⎠
(Eq. 6.6.1.2.5-2)

Where:
n = number of stress cycles per truck passage, taken from
Table 6.6.1.2.5-2
(ADTT)SL = p × ADTT (Eq. 3.6.1.4.2-1)

Where:
p = percentage of truck traffic in a single lane in one direction, taken
from Table 3.6.1.4.2-1.

(ADTT)SL is the amount of truck traffic in a single lane in one direction, taken
as a reduced percentage of the Average Daily Truck Traffic (ADTT) for
multiple lanes of travel in one direction.

ADTT is the amount of truck traffic in one direction of the bridge at 37.5
years. Type, Size, and Location reports usually give ADTT in terms of
present day and 20 years into the future. The ADTT at 37.5 years can be
extrapolated from this data by assuming that the ADTT will grow at the same
rate i.e. follow a straight-line extrapolation using the following formula:

⎛ ⎛ 37.5 years ⎞ ⎞
⎜ (ADTT20 − ADTT0 )⎜
⎜ 20 years ⎟⎟ + ADTT0 ⎟(DD)
ADTT = ⎟
⎜
⎝ ⎝ ⎠ ⎠

Where:
ADTT20 = ADTT at 20 years in the future, given on TSL
ADTT0 = present-day ADTT, given on TSL
DD = directional distribution, given on TSL

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Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
The designer should use the larger number given in the directional
distribution. For example, if the directional distribution of traffic was 70% /
30%, the ADTT for design should be the total volume times 0.7 in order to
design for the beam experiencing the higher ADTT. If a bridge has a
directional distribution of 50% / 50%, the ADTT for design should be the total
volume times 0.5. If a bridge is one-directional, the ADTT for design is the
full value, as the directional distribution is 100% / 0% i.e. one.

Additionally, all rolled sections shall satisfy the Temperature Zone 2 Charpy V-notch fracture
toughness requirements of Article 6.6.2. See also Section 3.3.7 of the Bridge Manual.

Many typical bridges made with rolled steel sections need not satisfy the requirements of
distortion-induced fatigue given in Article 6.6.1.3. This can become a consideration for
bridges with high skews, curved members, etc.

LRFD Fatigue Limit State checks are quite different than the LFD Fatigue requirements
stated in Article 10.3 of the AASHTO LFD Code. LRFD contains updated provisions based
upon relatively recent research and is somewhat more complex to apply.

Check Strength Limit State (Moment) (6.10.6)

Strength limit state compares the ultimate shear and moment capacities of the sections to
the factored Strength I loads applied to the bridge. Strength I factors for this limit state are
as follows:

MSTRENGTH I = γp(DC+DW)+1.75(LL+IM+CE)

Where:
γp = For DC: 1.25 (max.) (Table 3.4.1-2)
For DW: 1.50 (max.)

For single-span bridges, use the maximum values of γp in all locations.

Check Section Compactness:

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The strength limit state requirements for compact sections differ from those for
noncompact or slender sections. Compact rolled sections are defined in Article
6.10.6.2.2 as sections that satisfy the following:

i) Fy ≤ 70 ksi

ii) The cross-section proportional limit web requirements are satisfied (6.10.2.1.1)

2 (D cp ) E
iii) ≤ 3.76 (Eq. 6.10.6.2.2-1)
tw Fyc

Where:
Dcp = depth of web in compression at the plastic moment, as calculated using
the procedure in Article D6.3.2 (in.)

If these requirements are met, the section shall satisfy the following strength limit state
requirement (6.10.7.1):

Mu +
1
(fl ) (S xt ) ≤ φ f (Mn ) (Eq. 6.10.7.1.1-1)
3

Again, fl = 0 for straight interior beams on bridges with skews less than or equal to 45°.

Mn is the nominal flexural resistance of the section, determined as follows:

For Dp ≤ 0.1Dt:

Mn = Mp (Eq. 6.10.7.1.2-1)

Otherwise:

⎡ ⎛ Dp ⎞⎤
Mn = Mp ⎢1.07 − 0.7⎜⎜ ⎟⎥
⎟ (Eq. 6.10.7.1.2-2)
⎢⎣ ⎝ Dt ⎠⎥⎦

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Where:
Dp = distance from the top of the concrete deck to the neutral axis of the
composite section at the plastic moment (in.)
Dt = total depth of the composite section (in.)
Mp = plastic moment capacity (k-in.) of the composite section calculated using the
procedure in Article D6.1

Most rolled sections are compact. In the event that the requirements of Article 6.10.6.2.2
are not met, the beam shall satisfy the noncompact section requirements for strength limit
state (6.10.7.2) which is beyond the scope of this design guide.

Regardless of whether or not the section is compact, it shall satisfy the following ductility
requirement:

Dp ≥ 0.42Dt (Eq. 6.10.7.3-1)

Check Strength Limit State (Shear) (6.10.9)

Webs of rolled sections shall satisfy the following shear requirement:

Vu ≤ φvVn (Eq. 6.10.9.1-1)

Where:
φv = resistance factor for shear, equal to 1.00 (6.5.4.2)
Vu = factored Strength I shear loads (kips)
Vn = nominal shear resistance (kips)
= Vcr = CVp (Eq. 6.10.9.2-1)
Vp = plastic shear capacity (kips)

Where:
C = ratio of shear buckling resistance to shear yield strength

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Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
D Ek
For ≤ 1.12 :
tw Fyw

C = 1.0 (Eq. 6.10.9.3.2-4)

Ek D Ek
For 1.12 < ≤ 1.40 :
Fyw tw Fyw

1.12 Ek
C= (Eq. 6.10.9.3.2-5)
(D t w ) Fyw

D Ek
For > 1.40 :
tw Fyw

1.57 ⎛⎜ Ek ⎞⎟
C= (Eq. 6.10.9.3.2-6)
(D t w )2 ⎜⎝ Fyw ⎟⎠

Where k = 5 for unstiffened webs

Vp = 0.58FywDtw (Eq. 6.10.9.2-2)

LRFD Composite Design Example: 64 ft. Single-Span, 33 in. Depth Wide-Flange

Design Stresses

f’c = 3.5 ksi

fy = 60 ksi (reinforcement)
Fy = Fyw = Fyc = Fyt = 50 ksi (structural steel)

Bridge Data

Span Length: 64 ft.

Page 3.3.4-18 May 2008

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
Bridge Roadway Width: 36 ft., no stage construction.
Slab Thickness ts: 8 in.
Future Wearing Surface: 50 psf

ADTT0: 571 trucks

ADTT20: 800 trucks
DD: One-Way Traffic (100% / 0%)

Number of Girders: 6
Girder Spacing: 6.583 ft., non-flared, all beam spacings equal
Overhang Length: 2.958 ft.
Skew: 30°
Diaphragm Placement:
Location 1: 7.333 ft.
Location 2: 25.083 ft.
Location 3: 42.833 ft.
Location 4: 60.583 ft.

Top of Slab Longitudinal Reinforcement: #5 bars @ 12 in. centers

Bottom of Slab Longitudinal Reinforcement: 6- #5 bars between each beam

Determine Trial Section

Try W33x118:

d = 32.86 in.
tw = 0.55 in.
bfc = bft = 11.48 in.
tfc = tft = 0.74 in.

Section Weight = 118 lbs. per ft.

W33x118 beams have the following non-composite section properties:

May 2008 Page 3.3.4-19

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
Non-composite Section Modulus, or Snc = 359 in.3
Non-composite Moment of Inertia, or Inc = 5900 in.4

Determine Composite Section Properties

Determine Effective Flange Width (4.6.2.6.1)

The effective flange width is equal to the beam spacing of 79 in.

This width has been used to calculate the following composite section properties:

Yb = 30.5 in.
Ic = 16468 in.4
Sn=9 = 540 in.3
Sn=27 = 489 in.3
Q = 487 in.3
Composite Section Weight = 0.805 k/ft. (includes 1.2 detail factor)

Calculate Moments and Shears

Using the bridge and section data shown above, the following moments and shears have
been calculated:

At point 0.464 (the point of maximum moment), the unfactored distributed moments are:

MDC1 = 410.0 k-ft.

MDC2 = 76.4 k-ft.
MDW = 167.6 k-ft.
MLL+IM = 818.6 k-ft.

The maximum construction loading occurs at point 0.5L:

CONST = 434.7 k-ft.

MDC

Page 3.3.4-20 May 2008

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
CONST = 67.6 k-ft. (plus impact)
MLL

These loads occur in between the second and third diaphragms. The corresponding
construction loading factored moments for the diaphragm locations (brace points) and
midpoint for these diaphragms are:

MBRACE POINT 1
STRENGTH I = 598.5 k-ft., corresponding to diaphragm location 2

MMIDPOINT
STRENGTH I = 625.5 k-ft., corresponding to the midpoint of diaphragm locations 2 and

3
MBRACE POINT 2
STRENGTH I = 555.9 k-ft., corresponding to diaphragm location 3

For this bridge, the maximum factored Fatigue loading occurs at point 0.408. For simplicity,
it is conservative to use this value at point 0.464 in conjunction with the other moments.

MFATIGUE = 192.1 k-ft. (plus impact)

The factored, distributed moments for Strength Limit State, Service Limit State, and
Constructibility Limit State are found to be:

MSTRENGTH I = 2292.0 k-ft.

MSERVICE II = 1718.2 k-ft.

MCONST
STRENGTH I
= 627.9 k-ft.

The maximum factored shears have been found to be:

VCONST = 39.3 kips
VSTRENGTH I = 181.6 kips

Check Cross-Section Proportion Limits (6.10.2)

Check Web Proportions

May 2008 Page 3.3.4-21

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
D
≤ 150 (Eq. 6.10.2.1.1-1)
tw

Where:
D = d – 2tf = 32.86 in. – 2(0.74 in.) = 31.38 in.
tw = 0.55 in.

D 31.38 in.
= = 57.1 ≤ 150 O.K.
tw 0.55 in.

Check Flange Proportions

bf
i) ≤ 12.0 (Eq. 6.10.2.2-1)
2t f

bf 11.48 in.
= = 7.8
2t f 2(0.74 in.)
7.8 < 12.0 O.K.

D
ii) b f ≥ (Eq. 6.10.2.2-1)
6
bf = 11.48 in.
D 31.38 in.
= = 5.23 in.
6 6
11.48 in. > 5.23 in. O.K.

iii) t f ≥ 1.1 t w (Eq. 6.10.2.2-3)

tf = 0.74 in.
1.1tw = 1.1(0.55 in.) = 0.61 in.
0.74 in. > 0.61 in. O.K.

I yc
iv) 0.1 ≤ ≤ 10 (Eq. 6.10.2.2-4)
I yt

The top and bottom flanges of rolled sections are identical, therefore:

Page 3.3.4-22 May 2008

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design

I yc
=1
I yt

0.1 ≤ 1 ≤ 10 O.K.

Check Constructibility (6.10.3)

Check Discretely Braced Flanges in Compression (6.10.3.2.1)

i) fbu + fl ≤ φ f R hFyc (Eq. 6.10.3.2.1-1)

MCONST
STRENGTH I
fbu =
S nc

⎛ 12 in. ⎞
627.9 k − ft.⎜ ⎟
= ⎝ ft. ⎠
359 in.3
= 20.99 ksi
fl = 0 ksi
φf = 1.00 (6.5.4.2)
Rh = 1.0 (6.10.1.10.1)
Fyc = 50 ksi

fbu + fl = 20.99 ksi < (1.00)(1.0)(50 ksi) = 50 ksi O.K.

fl ≤ φ f (Fnc )
1
ii) fbu + (Eq. 6.10.3.2.1-2)
3
Fnc is taken as the lesser Fnc(FLB) and Fnc(LTB) (6.10.8.2.1)

Determine Fnc(FLB): (6.10.8.2.2)

b fc
λf = = 7.8 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.2-3)
2t fc

E 29000 ksi
λpf = 0.38 = 0.38 = 9.2 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.2-5)
Fyc 50 ksi

λf ≤ λpf, therefore:

May 2008 Page 3.3.4-23

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
Fnc(FLB) = RbRhFyc (Eq. 6.10.8.2.2-1)

Where:
Rb = 1.0 (Eq. 6.10.1.10.2)
Rh = 1.0 (Eq. 6.10.1.10.1)
Fyc = 50 ksi

Fnc(FLB) = (1.0)(1.0)(50 ksi) = 50 ksi

Determine Fnc(LTB):
⎛ 12 in. ⎞
Lb = (17.75 ft.)⎜ ⎟ = 213 in. (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-3)
⎝ ft. ⎠

E
Lp = 1.0 rt (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-4)
Fyc

Where:
b fc
rt = (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-9)
⎛ 1 Dc t w ⎞
12 ⎜⎜1 + ⎟
⎝ 3 b fc t fc ⎟⎠

Where:
Dc = 0.5D
= 0.5 × 31.38 in.
= 15.69 in.

11.48 in.
rt =
⎛ 1 (15.69 in.)(0.55 in.) ⎞
12 ⎜⎜1 + ⎟
⎝ 3 (11.48 in.)(0.74 in.) ⎟⎠

= 2.86 in.

29000 ksi
Lp = 1.0 (2.86 in.) = 68.9 in.
50 ksi

Page 3.3.4-24 May 2008

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
E
Lr = π rt (Eq. 6.10.6.2.3-5)
Fyr

29000 ksi
= π ( 2.86 in.)
0.7 × 50 ksi

= 258.6 in.

Lp < Lb ≤ Lr, therefore:

⎡ ⎛ Fyr ⎞ ⎛ Lb − Lp ⎞⎤
Fnc(LTB) = C b ⎢1 − ⎜1 − ⎟⎜ ⎟⎥ R b R h Fyc ≤ R b R h Fyc
⎢⎣ ⎜⎝ R h Fyc ⎟ ⎜ Lr − Lp ⎟⎥
⎠⎝ ⎠⎦
(Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-2)

Where:
Fyr = 0.7Fyc = 0.7(50 ksi) = 35 ksi
⎛ 12 in. ⎞
625.5 k − ft.⎜ ⎟
MMIDPOINT
STRENGTH I ⎝ ft. ⎠
fmid = = = 20.91 ksi
S nc 359 in.3

⎛ 12 in. ⎞
598.5 k − ft.⎜ ⎟
MBRACE POINT 1
STRENGTH I ⎝ ft. ⎠
f2 = = = 20.01 ksi
S nc 359 in.3

⎛ 12 in. ⎞
555.9 k − ft.⎜ ⎟
MBRACE POINT 2
STRENGTH I ⎝ ft. ⎠
f0 = = = 18.58 ksi
S nc 359 in.3
f1 = f0 = 18.58 ksi

fmid 20.91 ksi

= > 1, therefore Cb = 1.0 (Eq. 6.10.8.2.3-6)
f2 20.01 ksi

⎡ ⎛ 35 ksi ⎞ ⎛ (213 − 68.9) in. ⎞⎤

Fnc(LTB) = 1.0 ⎢1 − ⎜⎜1 − ⎟⎟ ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟⎥ (1.0) (1.0) (50 ksi)
⎣ ⎝ (1.0) (50 ksi) ⎠ ⎝ (258.6 − 68.9) in. ⎠⎦
= 38.6 ksi

∴Fnc(LTB) controls.

May 2008 Page 3.3.4-25

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
Fnc = 38.6 ksi

1 1
fbu + fl = 18.76 ksi + (0 ksi) = 18.76 ksi
3 3

φfFnc = 1.00(38.6 ksi) = 38.6 ksi

20.99 ksi < 38.6 ksi O.K.

Check Discretely Braced Flanges in Tension (6.10.3.2.2)

As the rolled section is symmetric about the x-axis, fbu is equal for both flanges.

fbu + fl ≤ φ f R hFyt (Eq. 6.10.3.2.2-1)

20.99 ksi + 0 ksi = 20.99 ksi < (1.00)(1.0)(50 ksi) = 50 ksi O.K.

Check Shear (6.10.3.3)

As VCONST = 39.3 k < VSTRENGTH I = 181.6 k, construction shear loading will not control the
design by inspection.

Check Service Limit State (6.10.4)

Check Permanent Deformations (6.10.4.2)

i) ( )
f f ≤ 0.95 (R h ) Fyf (Eq. 6.10.4.2.2-1)

By inspection O.K.

ii) ff +
fl
2
( )
≤ 0.95 (R h ) Fyf (Eq. 6.10.4.2.2-2)

Where:
fl = 0 ksi

Page 3.3.4-26 May 2008

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design

MDC1 MDC2 + MDW 1.3 (MLL +IM )

ff = + + (Eq. D6.2.2-1)
S nc S n=27 S n=9

Where:
MDC1 = 410.0 k-ft.
MDC2 = 76.4 k-ft.
MDW = 167.6 k-ft.
MLL+IM = 818.6 k-ft.
Sn=9 = 540 in.3
Sn=27 = 489 in.3
Snc = 359 in.3

⎛ 12 in. ⎞ ⎛ 12 in. ⎞ ⎛ 12 in. ⎞

410.0 k − ft.⎜ ⎟ (76.4 + 167.6 ) k − ft.⎜ ⎟ 1.3 (818.6 k − ft.)⎜ ⎟
⎝ ft. ⎠ ⎝ ft. ⎠ ⎝ ft. ⎠
ff = + +
359 in.3 489 in.3 540 in.3
= 43.3 ksi
fl
ff + = 43.3 ksi < 0.95 × 1.0 × 50.0 = 47.5 ksi O.K.
2

Check Fatigue and Fracture Limit State (6.10.5)

γ (Δf ) ≤ (ΔF)n (Eq. 6.6.1.2.2-1)

Where:
+ −
MFATIGUE − MFATIGUE
γ (Δf ) =
S n =9

Where:
+
MFATIGUE = 192.1 k-ft.
−
MFATIGUE = 0 k-ft.
Sn=9 = 540 in.3

May 2008 Page 3.3.4-27

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
+ −
Note that MFATIGUE and MFATIGUE already includes the 0.75 γ factor specified in
Equation 6.6.1.2.2-1.

(192.1 − 0) k − ft.⎛⎜ 12 in. ⎞⎟

⎝ ft. ⎠
γ (Δf ) = 3
= 4.3 ksi
540 in.
1
⎛ A ⎞3 1
(ΔF)n = ⎜ ⎟ ≥ (ΔF)TH (Eq. 6.6.1.2.5-1)
⎝N⎠ 2

Where:
A= 250 x 108 ksi3 (Fatigue Category A: rolled shape beam and diaphragms
bolted to web)
⎛ 365 days ⎞ ⎛ n cycles ⎞⎛ ( ADTT ) SL trucks ⎞
N = ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟(75 years)⎜ ⎟⎜⎜ ⎟⎟
⎝ year ⎠ ⎝ truck ⎠⎝ day ⎠

Where:
n = 1.0 (Table 6.6.1.2.5-2)
(ADTT)SL = p(ADTT) (Eq. 3.6.1.4.2-1)

⎛ ⎛ 37.5 years ⎞ ⎞
ADTT = ⎜ (ADTT20 − ADTT0 )⎜ ⎟ + ADTT ⎟(DD)
⎜ ⎜ 20 years ⎟ 0 ⎟
⎝ ⎝ ⎠ ⎠

⎛⎛ trucks ⎞⎛ 37.5 years ⎞ trucks ⎞

⎟(1.0 )
trucks
= ⎜ ⎜ 800 − 571 ⎟⎟⎜⎜ ⎟⎟ + 571
⎜ ⎜ day ⎟⎠
⎝⎝ day day ⎠⎝ 20 years ⎠

= 1000 trucks/day

p = 0.85 for two lanes (not counting shoulders) (Table 3.6.1.4.2-1)

(ADTT)SL = 0.85(1000 trucks) = 850 trucks

Page 3.3.4-28 May 2008

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
⎛ 365 days ⎞ ⎛ 1.0 cycle ⎞⎛ 850 trucks ⎞
N = ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟(75 years)⎜ ⎟⎜⎜ ⎟⎟ = 23.3 x 106 cycles
⎝ year ⎠ ⎝ truck ⎠⎝ day ⎠

1
⎛ 250 x 10 8 ksi 3 ⎞ 3
(ΔF)n = ⎜ ⎟
⎜ 23.3 x 10 6 cycles ⎟ = 10.2 ksi
⎝ ⎠

(ΔF)TH = 24.0 ksi (Table 6.6.1.2.5-3)

1
(ΔF)TH = 12.0 ksi
2

∴4.3 ksi < 12.0 ksi O.K.

Check Strength Limit State (Moment) (6.10.6)

Check Composite Sections in Positive Flexure (6.10.6.2.2)

Check Compactness

i) Fy = 50 ksi ≤ 70 ksi O.K.

ii) Cross-section proportion limit web requirements are satisfied (see above)

2 (D cp ) E
iii) ≤ 3.76 (Eq. 6.10.6.2.2-1)
tw Fyc

Find Dp, the depth to the plastic neutral axis from the top of the slab, to determine
Dcp, the depth of the web in compression at the plastic moment capacity.

Dp = Y (Table D6.1.1)

Per Table D6.1-1, Y is calculated as follows:

Prt = force in top reinforcement in fully plastic section (kips)
= assume as zero (0) kips

May 2008 Page 3.3.4-29

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
Ps = force in slab in fully plastic section (kips)
= 0.85f’c(eff. flange width)tslab = 0.85(3.5 ksi)(79 in.)(8 in.) = 1880.2 kips
Prb = force in bottom reinforcement in fully plastic section (kips)
= assume as zero (0) kips
Pc = force in top flange in fully plastic section (kips)
= Fycbfctfc = (50 ksi)(11.48 in.)(0.74 in.) = 424.8 kips
Pw = force in web in fully plastic section (kips)
= FywDtw = (50 ksi)(31.38 in.)(0.55 in.) = 863.0 kips
Pt = force in bottom flange in fully plastic section (kips)
= Fytbfttft = (50 ksi)(11.48 in.)(0.74 in.) = 424.8 kips

The fully plastic force in the steel beam is:

Pt + Pw + Pc = 424.8 kips + 863.0 kips + 424.8 kips = 1712.6 kips

The fully plastic (ultimate) force in the slab is:

Ps + Prb + Prt = 1880.2 kips + 0 + 0 = 1880.2 kips

Pt + Pw + Pc < Ps + Prb + Prt

∴ The plastic neutral axis is in the slab.

Use Case III to find Dp ( Y ):

⎡ P + Pw + Pt − Prt − Prb ⎤
Y = (t s )⎢ c ⎥
⎣ Ps ⎦

⎡1712.6 kips − 0 − 0 ⎤
= (8 in.)⎢ ⎥
⎣ 1880 .2 kips ⎦

= 7.29 in.

Take Dcp as 0

Page 3.3.4-30 May 2008

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
2 (D cp ) 2 (0 )
= = 0.0
tw 0.55 in.

E 29000 ksi
3.76 = 3.76 = 90.55
Fyc 50 ksi

0 < 90.55 O.K.

The section is compact.

Check Flexural Resistance (6.10.7)

Mu +
1
(fl ) (S xt ) ≤ φ f (Mn ) (Eq. 6.10.7.1.1)
3
As fl = 0, this simplifies to Mu ≤ φ f (Mn )
Dp = 7.29 in.

0.1Dt = 0.1(32.9 in. +8 in.) = 4.04 in. (assuming no fillet)

Dp = 7.29 in. > 0.1Dt = 4.04 in:

⎡ ⎛ Dp ⎞⎤
∴Mn = Mp ⎢1.07 − 0.7⎜⎜ ⎟⎥
⎟ (Eq. 6.10.7.1.2-2)
⎣⎢ ⎝ Dt ⎠⎦⎥

Where (assuming no fillet):

As per Table D6.1-1, Mp for Case III is calculated as follows:

⎛ Y 2P ⎞
Mp = ⎜ s ⎟ + [P d + P d + P d + P d + P d ]
⎜ 2t ⎟ rt rt rb rb c c w w t t
⎝ s
⎠

Where:
drt = distance from plastic neutral axis to centroid of top reinforcement (in.)
= not required when steel force assumed to be zero (0)
drb = distance from plastic neutral axis to centroid of bottom reinforcement

May 2008 Page 3.3.4-31

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
(in.)
= not required when steel force assumed to be zero (0)
dc = distance from plastic neutral axis to centroid of top flange (in.)
= (8 in. – 7.29 in.) + 0.5(0.74 in.) = 1.08 in.
dw = distance from plastic neutral axis to centroid of web (in.)
= (8 in. – 7.29 in.) + 0.74 in. + 0.5(31.38 in.) = 17.14 in.
dt = distance from plastic neutral axis to centroid of tension flange (in.)
= (8 in. – 7.29 in.) + 0.74 in. + 31.38 in. + 0.5(0.74 in.) = 33.20 in.

(7.29 in.) 2 (1880.2 kips )

Mp = +0 + 0+
2(8 in.)
( 424.8 kips )(1.08 in.) + (863.0 kips )(17.14 in.) + ( 424.8 kips )(33.20 in.)
= 35599 k-in.

⎡ ⎤
Mn = (35599 k − in.)⎢1.07 − 0.7⎛⎜⎜ 7.29 in. ⎞⎟⎟⎥
⎣ ⎝ 40.9 in. ⎠⎦
= 33649 k-in.
φfMn = 1.00(33649 k-in.) = 33649 k-in.

Mu = (2292.0 k − ft.)⎛⎜ 12 in. ⎞⎟ = 27504 k-in. < 33649 k-in.

⎝ ft. ⎠
O.K.

Check Ductility Requirement (6.10.7.3)

Dp ≥ 0.42Dt (Eq. 6.10.7.3-1)

Where:
Dp = 7.29 in.
0.42Dt = 0.42(40.9 in.) = 17.18 in.

7.29 in. < 17.18 in. O.K.

Page 3.3.4-32 May 2008

Design Guides 3.3.4 - LRFD Composite Beam Design
Check Strength Limit State (Shear) (6.10.9)

Vu ≤ φvVn (Eq. 6.10.9.1-1)

Where:
φv = 1.00 (6.5.4.2)
Vu = 181.6 kips
Vn = Vcr = CVp (Eq. 6.10.9.2-1)

Where:
D
= 57.1
tw

Ek (29000 ksi)(5)
1.12 = 1.12 = 60.3
Fyw (50 ksi)

∴ C = 1.0 (Eq. 6.10.9.3.2-4)

Vp = 0.58FywDtw (Eq. 6.10.9.2-2)

= 0.58(50 ksi)(31.38 in.)(0.55 in.)
= 500.5 kips

181.6 kips < 500.5 kips O.K.

A W33x118 beam is adequate for the proposed span length, beam spacing, and diaphragm
spacing.

May 2008 Page 3.3.4-33