The American Segmental Bridge Institute (ASBI) was incorporated in 1989 as a nonprofit organization to provide a forum where owners, designers, constructors, and suppliers can meet to further refine current design, construction and construction management procedures, and evolve new techniques that will advance the quality and use of concrete segmental bridges. ASBI is a unique organization in that all components of the bridge construction industry are included as members.
ASBI responds to problems as they develop in reference to segmental construction. In 2001 ASBI began a certification program for supervisors and inspectors of grouting operations to provide the training necessary to understand and successfully implement grouting specifications for post-tensioned structures. ASBI has contributed to the continued market viability of segmental bridges, as well as the concerns of companies and agencies interested in future applications of this technology.
ASBI is a focal point of the development of technical information for design and construction of segmental concrete bridges in the U.S. as well as internationally. Segmental bridges are now a multi-billion dollar market in the U.S. with ASBI providing educational programs and publications in response to industry needs. A two-day seminar held annually was developed to complement the manual," Construction Practice Handbook for Concrete Segmental and Cable-Supported Bridges," and allow participants the opportunity to learn first-hand from industry experts about best practices related to segmental concrete bridges design, construction and inspection.
ASBI conducts an annual survey of States and Transportation Agencies in reference to planned segmental projects which is distributed to ASBI Organizational Members.
ASBI works intra-industry with affiliate organizations such as PCI and AASHTO to further educate and provide current information on the industry. Each year ASBI co-sponsors a networking event during the AASHTO Subcommittee on Bridges and Structures. This allows ASBI members to learn first-hand issues facing State and Federal Highway decision makers and offer consultation, products and services to assist in the development or enhancement of concrete segmental bridges.
The ASBI membership year culminates with the Annual Convention where industry notables are showcased and discussed along with case study projects. The convention provides an educational forum to learn new techniques used in successful projects and lessons learned from development projects. A vendor showcase is offered as part of the total program for attendees to see the latest products and services available to the industry.
