What is the maximum difference in length expected in a bridg

What is the maximum difference in length expected in a bridge steel girder that is 120 ft long and will be used on a bridge in Northwestern CT (min. design temperature = -30ºF, max. temperature = 130ºF)

Solution

Coefficient of thermal expansion for steel = 7.2 *10^-6

Length = 120 ft.

Temperature change = 130-(-30)

=160^oF

Change in length = L*coeffient of thermal expansion* change in temperature

=120*7.2*10^-6*160

=0.13824 feet