Chapter
Feb 7, 2024
Chapter 5
Demolition with Explosives
Publication: Bridge Demolition Engineering: Best Practices
Abstract
The use of explosives in bridge demolition has been undertaken for decades. The intent of using explosives for bridge demolition is to bring the structure quickly and safely to the ground where it can be processed with conventional equipment. The use of explosives to demolish a bridge is a highly technical process. Significant up-front engineering to determine the charge locations and analyze the existing structure for pre-blast activities must take place. The design work is typically divided between two experts: the explosive engineer and construction engineer. Explosive demolition is typically subcontracted to a specialty explosives contractor. There are several reasons to consider the use of explosives for a demolition project: structure type, safety, condition of the existing structure, cost, and schedule. Pier removal with explosives is typically only justified in special circumstances. Large concrete piers may collapse on themselves (implosion), and steel frame piers can be brought down with external-shaped charges (explosion).
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Reference
PTI (Post-Tensioning Institute). 2018. Recommendations for stay cable design, testing, and installation. PTI Committee DC-45: Cable-Stayed Bridge. Farmington Hills, MI: PTI.
Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Bridge Demolition Engineering: Best Practices
Pages: 67 - 79
Editors: Josh Crain, P.E., S.E., Lisa Briggs, S.E., Sam Kevern, P.E., S.E., and Chris Tollefson, P.E.
ISBN (Print): 978-0-7844-1619-8
ISBN (Online): 978-0-7844-8536-1
Copyright
© 2024 by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Published in print: Feb 6, 2024
Published online: Feb 7, 2024
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ASCE Technical Topics:
- Bridge engineering
- Bridges
- Buildings
- Concrete frames
- Construction engineering
- Construction methods
- Demolition
- Design (by type)
- Disaster risk management
- Disasters and hazards
- Engineering fundamentals
- Existing buildings
- Explosions
- Frames
- Hydraulic engineering
- Hydraulic structures
- Man-made disasters
- Piers
- Ports and harbors
- Steel frames
- Structural design
- Structural engineering
- Structural members
- Structural safety
- Structural systems
- Structures (by type)
- Water and water resources
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