Reliability-Based Condition Assessment of an Externally Restrained Bridge Deck System Considering Uncertainties in Key Design Parameters
Publication: Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 30, Issue 1
Abstract
The objective of this research is to evaluate the reliability of bridge decks that use nonconventional materials or structural forms such as externally restrained deck systems where the available deterioration models developed for conventional systems are not applicable. The method developed here adopts the reliability theory and establishes a deterioration model for such bridge decks based on their failure mechanisms. The externally restrained deck is an innovative structural system introduced about a decade ago to the construction industry and provides corrosion-free replacement for conventional reinforced concrete decks. Because there is no established deterioration model available for these innovative systems, it is difficult to predict the reliability of such bridge decks at different instances of time. The developed method has been applied to an innovative structure with an externally restrained deck system, namely the Crowchild Trail Bridge, in Calgary, Canada, as a case study. A finite-element model of the bridge has been developed and calibrated with experimental results giving static deflection, vibration characteristics, load distribution, and crack patterns. The system reliability has been determined at different times using the proposed method. The results show that the design is quite conservative and there is a very low probability of failure for such a system during its design life.
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Acknowledgments
The support of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada (NSERC) is here gratefully acknowledged. The authors would also like to acknowledge the help provided by Mr. Adel R. Zaki, Chief Engineer–Bridges and Structures, SNC-Lavalin Inc., and by Mr. Rob Scott, the Structural Inspection and Maintenance Coordinator in the city of Calgary.
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Information & Authors
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Published In
Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 30 • Issue 1 • February 2016
Copyright
© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Sep 13, 2013
Accepted: Oct 3, 2014
Published online: Nov 5, 2014
Discussion open until: Apr 5, 2015
Published in print: Feb 1, 2016
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