Testing and assessment of a 3-span steel-concrete highway bridge using dynamic methods: a case-study

This paper describes the testing and assessment of a three span steel and concrete highway bridge based on a cost-effective dynamic technique. The data obtained from the field tests is presented and the method for predicting the load deflection response and load capacity based on this data is detailed. Comparison of the stiffness and strength results obtained from the dynamic tests with those based on the results of static load tests and finite element modelling show excellent agreement. The case study described in this paper as well as a large number of bridge tests conducted as part of a major project show that the dynamic techniques that were used provide a reliable cost-effective method for the assessment of the structural condition of a wide variety of short and medium span bridges. The case-study presented illustrates that the methods described in the paper provide quantitative information on the structural behaviour and integrity required for the rational long-term management of bridge assets. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E211602.