INSPECTING POST-TENSIONED BRIDGES

Following the initiation of the UK post-tensioned bridge inspection programme in 1994, several hundred structures have now been inspected. This article describes the inspections of about 70 of these structures, conducted by Hydra Technical Services (HTS) Ltd, using a variety of procedures. It also reviews the principal inspection techniques adopted, and considers their practical application. Post-tensioned structures in the UK are investigated according to Department of Transport Document BA 50/93, which proposes a phased approach to the investigation, beginning with a desktop study and initial inspection, which may be followed by a more detailed examination if necessary. Post-tensioned ducts can be located from construction drawings and records, or with the assistance of radioscopy and radiography, which can also be used to inspect the grout and tendons inside, or ground probing radar (GPR) and/or cover-meters. Various methods can be used to access ducts after they have been located; the choice of method depends on the duct position and the nature and composition of the surrounding structure. One of the most promising techniques is percussive drilling. Rigid or flexible endoscopy can be used to examine the inside of an exposed duct, but care should be taken that inspection does not risk further deterioration of the duct.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/14605856
• Corporate Authors:

  Palladian Publications Limited

  15 South Street
  Farnham Surrey GU97QU,   United Kingdom 
• Authors:
  • CROWCROFT, N
• Publication Date: 1998

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 46-8
• Serial:
  • CONCRETE ENGINEERING INTERNATIONAL
  • Volume: 2
  • Issue Number: 5
  • Publisher: THE CONCRETE SOCIETY
  • ISSN: 1460-5856

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridges; Equipment; Federal government; Nondestructive tests; Posttensioning; Radar; Reinforced concrete; Surveillance; X rays
• Geographic Terms: United Kingdom
• ITRD Terms: 3455: Bridge; 3674: Equipment; 183: Government (national); 6216: Non destructive testing; 4789: Post tensioning; 6738: Radar; 4794: Reinforced concrete; 9101: Surveillance; 8119: United Kingdom; 6728: X ray
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00757363
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Transport Research Laboratory
• Files: ITRD
• Created Date: Dec 17 1998 12:00AM