Composite Advantage FRP bridge still in ‘as new’ condition

The span was the first bridge in the US to receive Composite Advantage’s FiberSPAN prefabricated, drop-in-place system with FRP tee-stiffened panels. Installation for the 22ft long, 62ft wide two-lane crossing took one day.

Eight Mile’s specifications called for L/800 load deflection, deck depth of 5.5inch, panel depth of 22inch, and a panel weight of 26psf. The vehicle superstructure had to meet American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) HS 20 loading with the alternative military truck loading. Longitudinal beams and deck were moulded to form one part. The integrated system eliminated the joints between deck and beams. The ability to prefabricate multiple structural elements reduced manufacturing and installation costs.

Composite Advantage’s evaluation focused on the underside of the bridge where joints, panel-to-panel and panel-to-abutment areas were examined.

“We found no evidence of water or salt leakage from the FRP deck’s surface penetrating the panel joints,” said Scott Reeve, president of Composite Advantage. “Panels remained well connected and double tee stiffeners looked like new. Eight Mile Road Bridge is a good case study for the advantages of FRP in terms of zero maintenance, corrosion resistance, longevity and superior performance in a range of weather conditions.”

Composite Advantage supplies innovative fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) products for major infrastructure markets. To create its engineered solutions, CA pairs progressive designs with its capability to mould large parts, perform on-site assembly, and support customer installations. The supplier has been developing lightweight, high-strength, cost-effective FRP goods for structurally demanding applications and corrosive environments since 2005.

Many of these products have paved the way for first-time use of FRP composites in infrastructure, rail and water applications because of their performance attributes. The supplier’s comprehensive lineup includes bridge decks, trail bridges, cantilever sidewalks and rail platforms to fender protection systems, pilings, naval ship separators and other waterfront structures. CA is member of the Creative Composites Group, a subsidiary of Hill and Smith Holdings.

www.compositeadvantage.com