Experimental analysis of bridge falsework Cuplok systems

Bridge falsework systems are frequently used during the construction of cast-in-place concrete bridges. These structures have a significant impact on the cost, construction rate and safety of the supported permanent structures. However, in recent years a high number of accidents involving bridge falsework systems have occurred worldwide. This paper concerns experimental tests on joints of falsework Cuplok systems. In this paper, the results of 192 tests carried out during the experimental programme are presented, consisting of five different experiments on three different types of joints. Relevant new results are obtained concerning the bending behaviour and resistance of spigot joints (used to connect two vertical elements) and forkhead joints (used to connect the falsework system to the formwork system), relating to which no published research has been found to date. Based on the results, joint models are evaluated and improved empirical analytical models are developed. Finally, probabilistic models for the most relevant variables controlling the behaviour and resistance of the Cuplok joints (used to connect horizontal elements to vertical elements) are presented that can be used in the probabilistic analysis of falsework Cuplok systems.