Published: Građevinar 77 (2025) 5
Paper type: Scientific paper-Subject review
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Review of the influential weld details on fatigue failure of OSD in RD joints
Abstract
Orthotropic steel bridge decks (OSDs) are commonly used in long-span steel bridges because of their light weight, high load-carrying ability, and ease of construction. The fatigue performance of rib-to-deck (RD) welded joints in OSDs was reported as a key issue in the design of this type of structure. Furthermore, the failure mode at the rib-to-deck welded joint is a key factor affecting fatigue life. This study systematically summarises some of the geometric factors affecting weld-fatigue failure. Some fatigue assessment approaches for rib-to-deck welded-joint details in OSDs are briefly introduced for a deeper understanding and accurate evaluation of their fatigue performance. Several factors have been introduced for fatigue failure modes, among which welding penetration is well-documented to enhance the fatigue strength at the weld root.
Keywordsfatigue failure modes, rib-to-deck joints weld details, weld root failure, fatigue life analysis method.