Distribution analysis Distribution methods offer a quick way of determining the maximum load (or momen t) carried by any

one girder in right, simply supported bridge decks. The method ha s been codified in both the USA, AASHTO (1992) and Canada, OHBDC (1991) and to a very limited degree in the UK (BA16,1997). In the UK, the method has been proposed, researched and disseminated by Ryall (1992) as the D-Type method (after Bakht an d Jaeger 1985). The codified methods enable a useful first estimate of the load carrying capacit y of a bridge, and can be used as the platform to progress to more sophisticated levels if necessary. The D-Type method is, itself, a sophisticated method, but it is limit ed to the elastic range and is therefore conservative. 3.4.4 Finite element analysis An elastic finite element analysis (Hambly 1992) is often used to model more acc urately plate-type decks such as slab, or beam-and-slab which are of an irregular shape in plan, or box girder type bridges. Finite elements of triangular or rectangular shape are normally used to model sl abs, which may be isotropic or orthotropic in nature. Initially an isotropic model ma y suffice, but sound judgement must be excercised. If, for example, the areas of main reinf orcement are considerably different to the areas of secondary reinforcement then it may b e more accurate to consider an orthotropic model or a grillage analysis. Simple line elem ents are used to model beams. Supports should be given a finite size in order to avoid the anomaly of infinite moments over point supports. If the mesh is made finer in the region of supports, then the mesh size should be similar to the plan size of the support. This helps to minimize e rrors and avoid unrealistically high moments. In box girders where diaphragms are placed a t support positions this is not a problem. In beam-and-slab bridges the beam type elements model the longitudinal beams and diaphragms, whilst the plate type elements model the deck slab. The model may be 2D with downstand beams or a fully 3D one. The latter, however, only gives stresses and not moments and shears as output, and so these have to be converted to moments by integrating over the whole section. Alternatively, the stresses could be compare d with allowable stresses related to the moment capacity at the ultimate limit state. B oth provide not only global results but also local results under wheel loads, and so separat e analyses for local effects are not necessary. It is always advisable to carry out a simple hand calculation in order to check the validity of the results.