Load testing and in-service monitoring of transversely stressed deck unit bridges

Transversely stressed precast concrete deck unit bridges are common on the Queensland road network for small and medium spans. This type of bridge is unique in terms of design and performance with a low level of transverse post-tensioning, upright external units and no shear-key. Recent analytical assessments of this type of bridge have identified problems associated with accurate modelling of the structural system raising concerns that the theoretical models do not represent actual performance under loads regarding the transverse live load distribution and overall bridge deck capacity. However, these structures have been performing well under normal traffic with no visual evidence of structural distress. In an effort to improve understanding and validate guidelines for the structural modelling and assessment of typical deck unit bridges, a three-year test program has been developed under the ARRB/Transport and Main Roads research agreement. The first year of the program includes static and dynamic load testing of an in-service deck unit type bridge in Queensland under known loads, as well as monitoring the behaviour of the bridge under normal traffic. This paper presents details and results of the load test and long-term monitoring, including preliminary findings.

• Record URL:
  http://arrbknowledge.com
• Authors:
  • Ngo, H
  • Kotze, R
  • Pape, T
  • Roberts, W
  • Mir, F
  • Pritchard, R
• Conference:
  • Austroads Bridge Conference, 9th, 2014, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
• Publication Date: 2014-10

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 15p
• Serial:
  • Issue Number: 7.2

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridge decks; Bridges; Concrete; Dynamic loads; Dynamics; Field studies; Loads; Long span bridges; Performance; Vehicles
• Geographic Terms: Australia; Queensland
• ATRI Terms: Bridge deck; Bridge testing; Dynamic loading; Field study; Performance; Span
• ITRD Terms: 3452: Span
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Vehicles and Equipment; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01550362
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: ARRB
• Files: ITRD, ATRI
• Created Date: Jan 21 2015 11:33AM