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@article{187078,
        author = {Mr. Vishal Ankush Korade and Dr. M.N. Bajad},
        title = {Steel Bridges: Components, Design Considerations, Erection Methods, Fatigue Behaviour, and Maintenance Strategies in India},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {},
        volume = {12},
        number = {no},
        pages = {76-79},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=187078},
        abstract = {Steel bridges play an important role in India’s transport network because they offer high strength, fast construction, and suitability for long and medium spans. Their long-term performance depends on several structural components and design practices that ensure safe load transfer, smooth movement, and durability under changing environmental and traffic conditions. This abstract presents a brief overview of five essential aspects of steel bridge design and functioning—bearings, expansion joints, erection methods, fatigue behaviour, and maintenance strategies. Bearings are critical elements that safely transfer loads from the deck to the substructure while allowing movements caused by temperature changes and traffic. In India, elastomeric, rocker, roller, and pot bearings are commonly used depending on the span and loading conditions. Proper selection of bearings reduces stress on the structure and prevents damage to the deck and supports. Expansion joints are another important component that help accommodate the expansion and contraction of steel due to temperature variations. If expansion joints are not provided or do not function properly, cracks, noise, and deformation may occur. Strip seal, slab seal, and finger-type joints are widely adopted in Indian bridge projects. Erection of steel bridges is usually carried out using cranes, launching girders, or incremental launching, depending on site constraints. Safe erection practices, alignment checks, and quality control of bolts and welds ensure structural stability during construction. Fatigue design is crucial because steel members experience repeated vehicle loads throughout their life. Following IRC guidelines, smooth detailing, proper welding, and avoidance of sharp corners help reduce stress concentration and improve fatigue resistance. Regular maintenance—including painting, corrosion control, inspection of bearings, cleaning of joints, and tightening of bolts—is essential to ensure long service life under India’s varied climate. Overall, these components and practices together ensure the safe, economical, and durable performance of steel bridges in Indian conditions.},
        keywords = {steel bridges, bearings, expansion joints, erection methods, fatigue design, maintenance, structural performance, durability, Indian bridge engineering.},
        month = {},
        }