Integral sheet piling abutments of modular composite bridges for a time efficient construction

Abstract Integral bridge structures with a high degree of prefabrication comply with all requirements of modern bridge structures. Composite bridges with sheet pile abutments using modular elements are such a solution although not yet a standardized solution with wide acceptance by bridge authorities and owners. In the present paper, two design concepts of a modular connection between superstructure in steel composite construction using hot‐rolled profiles and integral steel sheet pile abutments are presented: A flexible concept with sheet piles as abutments for bridge spans 25‐30m and a more rigid concept applying combined sheet pile walls for bridge spans up to 30‐45m. The concepts are referencing the Knife Edge‐Support (KES) as basis of design. The load paths are analyzed numerically, and the influencing parameters are identified. Finally, preliminary experimental results to proof the suitability of the connections will be confirmed presented.