With the development of urban rail transit, the structural forms of rail transit viaducts are becoming increasingly diverse. With the design of precast U girders for both domestic and international use, it is becoming increasingly important as a girder type for urban rail transit viaducts. precast U-shaped beams are a lower-bearing, prestressed concrete space-opening thin-walled structure. They have distinct characteristics from traditional upper-bearing structures. Among them, they are superior to other beam types in terms of functionality, architectural design, noise reduction, etc. It has many advantages and is currently being gradually introduced and widely used both domestically and internationally.This article will introduce in detail the advantages of precast U girder.

Low Building Height

As a lower bearing structure compared to upper bearing structures, precast U girders are advantageous for spanning over or passing under urban road bridges, which optimizes the vertical profile of the route and improves vehicle operation conditions, reducing operating costs.

Good Noise Reduction

Compared to conventional structures, the web structure of precast U-shaped beams serves as a barrier to rail noise. U-type beams also eliminate the reverberation noise caused by train vibrations within the box girder, further improving the noise reduction effect.

Beautiful Aesthetic Effect

 In addition to the beautiful appearance of the beam itself, the upper flange and web of the main girder of precast U-shaped beams conceal the visually unattractive bridge deck and vehicle running system, leaving only the clean and beautiful upper body.

Good Economic Viability

 precast U girder have smaller cross-sectional dimensions and require less concrete compared to box girders of the same span, resulting in lighter self-weight and secondary load, thereby saving construction costs. precast U girder significantly reduces the cost of environmental protection projects and operating costs, reducing urban pollution and noise. They also enhance the landscape and bring about significant direct or indirect economic benefits.

Functionality

 The precast U-shaped beams' structural framework serves as a functional framework for traffic and equipment. The upper flanges of the main beam can be used for maintenance and passenger emergency evacuation passages, while the lower space can be used for pipelines, improving the overall functionality of U-shaped beams.

Safety

 The side webs prevent derailed vehicles from overturning and falling, providing a reliable guarantee for traffic safety. The comfort, stability, and safety of U-shaped beams are in compliance with regulations.

Various Construction Methods

Various construction methods include off-site prefabrication and integrated construction, which offers benefits such as lower cost, reduced traffic impact, and reduced environmental impact compared to cast-in-place methods. These methods also save overall life cycle costs.

To Wrap Up

By highlighting the benefits of precast U-shaped beams, they not only meet functional requirements but also contribute to environmentally friendly engineering. They have great potential for promotion and a wide range of applications in rail transit construction.