cracking. Experimental data were obtained from coupon fatigue tests for the investigation of the role of the riveting process on fatigue resistance. Fracture mechanics models of both open-hole and riveted A36 steel coupon specimens were used to predict the fatigue life. Stress versus the number of cycles to failure curves (S-N curves) were established based on empirical results and combined with Air Force Grow software (AFGROW) fatigue life estimates and compared. Fatigue crack growth test data was developed and compared with the material library in AFGROW. Fracture surfaces of the specimens were examined and striation spacing measured using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images. Subsequently, stress intensity factors and local crack growth rates were estimated. Estimates of the local crack growth rates and the estimated stress intensity ranges were compared with data obtained from fatigue crack growth test results. Test results demonstrated that fatigue life was improved with the riveting process. In addition, accurate fatigue life predictions required consideration of the compressive residual stresses due to riveting.

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Heavy duty riveted gratings are a good alternative for applications that often employ other deck systems, if they are carefully analyzed under static and fatigue loads. Understanding the static behavior of a riveted steel deck under tire patch loads will aid in establishing a design model based on an effective beam width. In addition, use of a riveted system avoids welded details that may lead to fatigue cracking, thereby improving design life. In this study, analysis of a typical riveted steel deck under a standard AASHTO fatigue truck with a 15% impact factor was conducted. Hand calculations were compared with the results of a finite element model using SAP2000 v19.2.1. Bending moments and stresses were evaluated and compared. Stresses at the rivet hole for the most highly loaded bearing bar were evaluated. A model for fatigue cracking around a rivet hole is discussed.

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