Pilot Proof-Load Test on Viaduct De Beek: Case Study
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 22, Issue 12
Abstract
For existing bridges, proof-load testing can be a suitable assessment method. This paper addresses the evaluation of a posted reinforced concrete slab bridge over a highway through proof-load testing, detailing the preparation, execution, and analysis of the test. As the target proof-load and the required measurements for proof-load testing currently are not well-defined in the existing codes, this pilot case was used to develop and evaluate proposed recommendations for proof-load testing for a future guideline on proof-load testing for the Netherlands. Moreover, the pilot proof-load test is used to study the feasibility of proof-load testing for both shear and flexure.
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Acknowledgments
The authors express their gratitude and sincere appreciation to the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment (Rijkswaterstaat) and the Province of Noord Brabant for financing this research work. The contributions and help of colleagues Albert Bosman, Sebastiaan Ensink, and Yuguang Yang, and student Werner Vos of Delft University of Technology; of Witteveen + Bos, responsible for the logistics and safety; and of Mammoet, responsible for applying the load, are gratefully acknowledged. The fruitful discussions with Frank Linthorst and Danny den Boef of Witteveen + Bos, and with Otto Illing and the late Chris Huissen of Mammoet are also acknowledged.
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Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 22 • Issue 12 • December 2017
Copyright
© 2017 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Dec 30, 2016
Accepted: May 19, 2017
Published online: Oct 12, 2017
Published in print: Dec 1, 2017
Discussion open until: Mar 12, 2018
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