8. Loading

This section defines all applied loads on the bridge structure beyond self-weight, including live loads, wind loads, and temperature effects.

Load definitions follow AASHTO LRFD specifications. The influence surface-based live load analysis automatically determines critical vehicle positions.

Load Categories

Category	Description
Load Geometry Definitions	Define surfaces for load application
Loads	All load types including static, live, wind, and temperature

Loads Defined in This Example

Load Type	Value/Description
Future Wearing Surface	30 psf surface load
Stay-in-Place Forms (SIP)	15 psf
Live Load	HL-93 Design Vehicle
Wind on Structure	Per AASHTO from multiple attack angles
Wind on Live Load	Per AASHTO specifications
Temperature	Uniform temperature change

Load Types

• Static Loads: Surface loads for wearing surface and SIP forms

• Influence Surface-Based LL/BR/CE: Live load, braking, and centrifugal effects using influence surfaces

• Wind Loads: Lateral loads on structure and vehicles from various directions

• Temperature Loads: Uniform temperature changes for thermal expansion/contraction