LFRD Bridge Design as Viewed by the Designer

by John H. Clark, Andersen Bjornstad Kane Jacobs Inc, Seattle, WA, USA,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Bridges and Transmission Line Structures

Abstract:

The load and resistance factor design (LFRD) design concept has been resisted by some bridge engineers on the grounds that it represents a reduction of the 'factor of safety' or reserve strength inherent in current design codes. This paper examines this concept through a case study. It is the author's contention that the unique circumstances surrounding each bridge make the LFRD concept the only rational method of arriving at a structure which possesses a given level of safety (i. e. , probability of survival over its service life). It is the only rational method of providing equal safety (risk) over the myriad of load cases which the designer is required to consider. The development and calibration of the LFRD concept should be given high priority for current research and development.

Subject Headings: Load and resistance factor design | Bridge design | Arch bridges | Safety | Girder bridges | Structural strength | Structural safety

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