Topic outline

  • Abutment Design for Small Bridges

    Credit: 2 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course presents a procedure for determining the ultimate and allowable bearing capacity for shallow strip footings adjacent to slopes.
    Additional guidelines related to scour protection and layout are also included. Structural design of bridges and footings is beyond the scope of this course.

    Topics:

    • Uses of Small Bridges
    • Bearing Capacity - Flat Ground Formula
    • Allowable Bearing Capacity
    • Sloping Ground Methods
    • Meyerhof analysis method
    • Selection of Shear Strength Parameters
    • Estimates BC using the principles of Plastic and Limit equilibrium, and FEA
    • Scour Considerations
    • Example Problems

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion


    Intended Audience: This course is intended for Structural, Construction, Environmental, Transportation, Civil, Water Resources, and other engineers whose job description may require an introductory knowledge of the uses and basic design of small bridges.
    Publication Source: USDA (Natural Resources Conservation Service)

    Donald Parnell, PE
    • Topic 1