Abstract:
Nowadays engineer use computer software foranalysis and design structures. There is a lot of engineering software that can be used in civil engineering practice. Using computer engineer can design and analyze structure with less error and time particularly for complex structures such as bridge decks. Bridge decks are analyzed using several methods. The most advanced method for analyzing the bridge deck is finite element method. In finite element analysis, bridge deck can be analyzed through a variety of models in 2D and 3D. In this study, bridge decks were analyzed by beam - shell and 3D solid model using SAF software. The study is focused to compare the behavior of the tow models to determine the more effective one. The result of the study show that 3D solid model is able to provide the necessary parameters for design purpose and more acceptable results compare with beam and shell model.
