Abstract: A structural beam for use in buildings and other structures, and a process of forming the structural beam. The structural beam exhibits the structural advantages of a truss without the high labor costs normally associated with a truss. The beam includes a top flange, a bottom flange, a web joining the top and bottom flanges, and a plurality of apertures located within the web. Top and bottom chords including neutral axes are defined by a respective flange and longitudinally uninterrupted web portion. A plurality of joining members located in the web between the top and bottom chord transmit loading forces generally along diagonal axes. The diagonal axes of adjacent joining members intersect at panel points which are located substantially along the neutral axis of a respective chord. Haunches provide local structural deepenings of the top and bottom chords in the regions of the panel points to locate critical points a safe distance away from the flow of stresses due to loading.

Abstract: A reduced-weight bridge deck having a plurality of areas which are void of concrete to provide a lower dead load force and to reduce the product costs. The bridge deck includes structural support bars, post-tensioning ducts and a concrete component. Concrete component has spaced downwardly projecting protrusions which laterally distribute forces and permit the ability of providing areas void of concrete therebetween. The post-tensioning ducts are located within and extend through the downwardly projecting protrusions. The strength of deck is achieved by placing the tendons within the ducts. The tendons are tightened and anchored to the ends of the deck to prestress the concrete component. The unique section design and the post-tensioning eliminates the need for reinforcing bars which can deteriorate and contribute to structural failures. Methods for manufacturing the bridge deck from precast panels and by cast-in-place sections are also disclosed.