Application of computer simulation to bridge deck construction: Case study

Bridge deck construction is performed in a cyclic manner and it involves different types of interacted resources. This paper presents a case study that discusses how computer simulation is used to aid bridges' contractors in planning of bridges' decks, taking into consideration the interaction amongst involved resources. As such, total duration of deck execution and the associated total costs, including direct and indirect costs, can be estimated. El-Warrak Bridge, which is a part of the Ring Road of Cairo, Egypt, is analyzed in a step-by-step procedure to demonstrate the capability of computer simulation in modeling construction of bridges' decks using cast-in-place on falsework and cantilever carriage construction methods. The presented methodology proves its practicality to contractors in estimating the time and costs of the repetitive process of bridge deck construction, considering complex interdependencies between construction resources and the uncertainties associated with construction activities.