Which technical resource must be consulted to determine the bar support spacing for a concrete bridge deck?

The Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute (CRSI) is the authoritative source for guidance on the design and construction of reinforced concrete, including specifications for bar support spacing in concrete structures such as bridge decks. The CRSI provides detailed standards and recommendations based on structural design principles, including considerations for load, durability, and construction practices.

In the context of determining bar support spacing, CRSI documents include guidelines that ensure the reinforcing steel is adequately supported and maintained in the correct position during the placement of concrete, which is crucial for the structural integrity of the bridge deck. Proper spacing is necessary to ensure that the reinforcement performs effectively in managing tensile forces while also accommodating concrete cover requirements.

While the American Concrete Institute (ACI) provides a wide spectrum of codes and guidelines for concrete design, the specific focus on reinforcing steel and bar support conditions is primarily found in the resources published by the CRSI. Other organizations, such as the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association and the Concrete Builders Association, focus on different aspects of concrete production and construction practices, which does not specifically address the bar support spacing for reinforced concrete applications. Therefore, the CRSI is the most relevant and direct resource for this particular inquiry.