Barge Bow Force–Deformation Relationships for Barge–Bridge Collision Analysis

The AASHTO specifications pertaining to bridge design for barge collision loads use a static impact force determination procedure. Incorporated within that static procedure is a force–deformation relationship that represents barge bow stiffness. Recently developed dynamic vessel collision analysis techniques, which include mass-related components of bridge response, also require the use of a force–deformation relationship (or crush curve) to model barge bow stiffness. Whether static or dynamic analysis techniques are used, the vessel crush curve largely governs impact forces and, therefore, plays a critical role in quantifying structural response to impact loads. The basis for the AASHTO crush curve is reviewed, and new crush curves are proposed on the basis of finite element crush simulations of multiple high-resolution barge bow models. The barge models developed for this study are based strictly on structural vessel plans obtained from U.S. barge manufacturers and consist of the two most common types of barges traversing U.S. inland waterways (hopper and tanker). Recommended crush curves are then proposed for use in barge–bridge collision analysis and design.