Experimental investigation and finite element modelling of the effects of flow velocities on a skewed integral bridge

Over the past 30 years, there has been an increasing need to replace the current stock of bridges in Malaysia, since modern bridge systems have a lower life cost. In particular, the huge maintenance cost incurred for the expansion joints and bearings of conventional bridges has been a major concern for local state councils and authorities. The government has also acknowledged the exceptional rise in maintenance costs, the concurrent decrease in highway revenues, and the serious impact on future highway construction projects. Bridges of total lengths less than 60 m are more economical and cost-effective if designed as integral bridges having full structural continuity and smaller numbers of expansion joints. In view of these requirements, integral bridges have become feasible alternatives, and a dramatic increase has been noted in the construction of such bridges in Malaysia.