Bridges

AS 5100.5:2017 incorporates Modified Compression Field Theory (MCFT) for shear design but lacks explicit guidance for shear assessment for existing structures. This paper refines the MCFT-based iterative shear assessment method by incorporating web-shear, flexure shear strength limitations and load effects. Case studies on Australian bridges demonstrate the methodology's effectiveness compared to previous standards such as NAASRA 1976 and AS 5100.5:2004.

An in-house Python tool is introduced to streamline computations, making MCFT-based shear assessment more practical for engineers. The findings highlight key improvements needed in AS 5100.7 for assessment in both reinforced and prestressed concrete bridges.