AS 5100.5 Supp 1:2008 PDF Download

The AS 5100.5 Supp 1:2008 standard provides minimum provisions and criteria for the design of concrete bridges. It is important for design engineers to consider whether these provisions are sufficient for their specific structures and to exercise engineering judgement when applying them to other types of structures.

The standard assumes a certain level of knowledge and competence on the part of the users, who are expected to be professionally qualified civil or structural engineers experienced in designing concrete bridge structures. It is not intended to serve as a textbook, design handbook, or guide to good practice, and users are advised to consult other references for additional information.

The standard includes provisions for the characteristic compressive strength of concrete, with a lower limit imposed to ensure structural suitability and an upper limit based on test data for higher strength concrete. The density limits for concrete are determined based on the use of naturally occurring Australian coarse aggregates or lightweight aggregates.

In terms of reinforcing steel, the standard refers to ductility classes, with Class L and N commonly available in Australia. Provisions are given for these classes, while the Class E, formulated for earthquake design in New Zealand, is not available in Australia.

Lastly, the standard acknowledges that its provisions can be used for structures with unbonded tendons, but the design engineer must recognize the inherent differences in behavior between these structures and those with bonded tendons under both serviceability and ultimate limit states.