Composite Bridge acc. EN 1994-2

This tutorial will introduce you to the workflow of designing a composite bridge using SOFiSTiK FEA 2026. The focus lies on performing the key design checks for composite bridges in accordance with EN 1994-2.

By following the step-by-step process, you will:

• Gain an understanding of the graphical workflow for composite bridge design.
• Learn how to set up and evaluate the design of the main girders.
• Become familiar with the relevant checks required by the code.

For clarity and focus, this tutorial is limited to the design of the main girders. Other aspects of bridge design—such as the transverse design of the slab, piers, or bridge bearings—are not included here and may be addressed in separate tutorials.

What will you learn

• Starting a new project
• Material definition
• Cross-section definition
• System generation
• Load definition
• Construction stages
• Linear analysis
• Evaluation of traffic loads using influence lines
• Design combinations and superpositioning
• Ultimate Limit State design checks
• Serviceability Limit State design checks (incl. control of cracking)
• Calculation of longitudinal shear forces for designing the shear connection
• Calculation of stress ranges for fatigue design checks

Happy Learning!