i-manager's Journal on Structural Engineering (JSTE)


Volume 12 Issue 1 April - June 2023

Research Paper

Fatigue Life Prediction of a Durga Flyover Bridge at Vijayawada using Wireless Sensors

V. Guru Rupesh* , B. Vidya**
*-** Department of Civil Engineering, Gayatri Vidya Parishad College for Degree and PG Courses (A), Visakhapatnam, India.
Rupesh, V. G., and Vidya, B. (2023). Fatigue Life Prediction of a Durga Flyover Bridge at Vijayawada using Wireless Sensors. i-manager’s Journal on Structural Engineering, 12(1), 1-11. https://doi.org/10.26634/jste.12.1.19951

Abstract

It is essential to inspect and assess any fatigue damage to the components of a structure in order to determine how long it will last. This is necessary for constructions such as concrete bridges, which are subjected to fluctuating loads with high intensity and frequency. This study presents a computer application method for calculating the fatigue life of the Durga flyover (reinforced concrete) bridge. The damage to bridge components can be evaluated based on the dynamics of the interaction between the bridge and vehicles caused by actual traffic. The computer code initially calculates the fluctuation of stresses caused by the passage of various types of vehicles in a given segment of a bridge. The other module has a continuous set of loads to measure the strains and calculate the stress variations across the section components. The rainflow method is used to count stress cycles owing to the fact that the peak intensities of the stress cycles are not steady, and the appropriate S-N curves are utilized to determine the damage caused by each cycle. In this analysis, the stress range amplitude waveform and fatigue toughness characteristics of bridge elements were employed to systematically detect continuous bridge girder fatigue damage. The most severe flexural stresses induced by vehicles were detected, and a stress-range frequency waveform was created while accounting for the total traffic volume. Linear damage accumulation theory was used to calculate the cumulative damage index and bridge fatigue life. The Miner's rule was used to calculate the overall damage caused by the passage of the vehicles. The major factors affecting the fatigue life are the effects of the span, pavement quality, increase in the speed of operation, weight, and suspension characteristics of the bridge.

Research Paper

Study of Bidder Selection Criteria in Various Contract Modes of Road Projects

Chhotelal Bhagirathi Yadav* , Tophique Qureshi**
*-** Shri Jagdish Prasad Jhabermal Tiberewala University, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, India.
Yadav, C. B., and Qureshi, T. (2023). Study of Bidder Selection Criteria in Various Contract Modes of Road Projects. i-manager’s Journal on Structural Engineering, 12(1), 12-19. https://doi.org/10.26634/jste.12.1.20039

Abstract

The selection criteria for outsourcing to execute any specialized work through tenders/bids by any executing agency have been used for the development of public infrastructure projects. The procurement procedures for road development throughout India for public infrastructure and selection were performed by the Lowest-Cost Bidder (LCB). The cost factor is a popularly used bidder selection method, in which the one who quotes the least cost will obtain the project. Various studies have been conducted to determine the causes of failure, delay, substandard work, poor quality, etc., on the performance of selected lowest-bidder-executed projects. To enhance the existing bidding selection procedure and eliminate the causes of failure caused by the existing bid selection procedures, a revised and improved procurement procedure known as Quality and Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) is currently being adopted. This study analyzes the bid selection procedure under various contract modes to reduce the risk of failure and improve the work quality of the road infrastructure in India. New guidelines in public procurement process over existing rules and procedures are emphasized by the Government of India by involving stakeholders, regulating authority, financing institutions, Ministry and Departments considering work quality.

Research Paper

Feasibility Study on Utilization of Coconut Shell Aggregates in Concrete

Abdul Razak B. H.* , Vivek S.**
* Department of Civil Engineering, JSS Academy of Technical Education, Bangalore, India.
** Terre Arnee India Pvt.Ltd., Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Razak, B. H. A., and Vivek, S. (2023). Feasibility Study on Utilization of Coconut Shell Aggregates in Concrete. i-manager’s Journal on Structural Engineering, 12(1), 20-25. https://doi.org/10.26634/jste.12.1.19978

Abstract

Several materials are being used in concrete as a replacement to coarse aggregates. The present study focuses on experimenting with using Coconut Shell Aggregates (CSA) as replacement to coarse aggregates partially. The high strength and modulus of the coconut shell make it a suitable coarse aggregate for concrete applications. The replacement levels were set at 10%, 15%, and 20%. The experimental results revealed that CSA, when replaced with conventional coarse aggregates, gave satisfactory compressive strength up to 15% replacement, beyond which the strength dropped below the required value. In addition, the use of CSA in concrete significantly reduces the self-weight of concrete, thus contributing to the economy of construction.

Review Paper

A Comparative Assessment of Steel-Concrete Composite and RCC Structures towards Seismic Resilience

M. Shaju Pragash*
Department of Civil Engineering, Ponjesly College of Engineering, Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, India.
Pragash, M. S. (2023). A Comparative Assessment of Steel-Concrete Composite and RCC Structures towards Seismic Resilience. i-manager’s Journal on Structural Engineering, 12(1), 26-33. https://doi.org/10.26634/jste.12.1.20087

Abstract

Seismic resilience is of paramount importance for the design and construction of structures in earthquake-prone regions. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the seismic performance of steel-concrete composite and Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) structures under dynamic loading, facilitating a comparative assessment of their respective behaviors. The behavior of cement-concrete composite structures, emphasizing the interactions between steel and concrete components, their energy dissipation mechanisms, and their contributions to seismic resistance are explored. This review contributes to the advancement of seismic design guidelines, aiding architects, engineers, and policymakers in making informed decisions regarding safer and more resilient structures.

Review Paper

A Study of Delays in Indian Road Construction Projects under Different Contracts

Chhotelal Bhagirathi Yadav* , Tophique Qureshi**, Hira Lal Yadav***
*-** Shri Jagdish Prasad Jhabermal Tiberewala University, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, India.
*** Govind Ballabh Pant Institute of Engineering and Technology, Pauri Garwal, Uttarakhand, India.
Yadav, C. B., Qureshi, T., and Yadav, H. L. (2023). A Study of Delays in Indian Road Construction Projects under Different Contracts. i-manager’s Journal on Structural Engineering, 12(1), 34-42. https://doi.org/10.26634/jste.12.1.19974

Abstract

Road construction projects are complex and dynamic management processes that face many challenges, leading to delays, mainly owing to cost overruns and schedule extensions during the construction phase. Forensic analysis of past project data was examined, and construction project performance was reviewed. This paper presents an analysis of delays in Indian road construction projects under different contract modes. Each contract mode has distinct contractual relationships, risk allocation, and projection-building approaches that influence project execution. To identify the cause of the delay, allocating responsibilities among all project participants' duties and roles under the contract obligation is crucial. Numerous factors can lead to delays, including weather conditions, unforeseen ground conditions, design changes, permit issues, and contractor performance. These delays have a significant impact on project timelines, budgets, and overall project success. This study aims to explore the major factors resulting in project delays and their potential improvements.