Instrumentation, Nondestructive Testing, and Finite-Element Model Updating for Bridge Evaluation Using Strain Measurements
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 17, Issue 1
Abstract
A baseline finite element model was developed for bridge management and calibration using nondestructive test data. The model calibration technique was evaluated on the Vernon Avenue Bridge over the Ware River in Barre, Massachusetts. This newly constructed bridge was instrumented throughout its construction phases in preparation for a static truck load test performed before the bridge opening. The strain data collected during the load test was used to calibrate a detailed baseline finite element model in an effort to represent the 3D system behavior of the bridge. Three methods of load ratings were used and compared: (1) conventional method, (2) conventional method updated by using NDT data, and (3) finite element model calibrated with NDT data.
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Acknowledgments
The writers are grateful for the funding of this research by NSF-PFI Grant No. NSF0650258. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation. Additionally, they would like to thank MassDOT and the Town of Barre for access to the Vernon Avenue Bridge, Fay Spofford & Thorndike Inc. for providing access to the design calculations and drawings, bridge constructor E.T. & L. Corporation and their subconsultants High Steel Structures Inc. and Atlantic Bridge and Engineering Inc. for their support and access during construction for instrumentation including accommodating researchers during instrumentation at the steel yard. Thanks to Geocomp Corporation for extensive help during the instrumentation phase. Additional thanks to graduate student Ms. Merve Iplikcioglu for making improvements to the load rating section.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 17 • Issue 1 • January 2012
Pages: 130 - 138
Copyright
© 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jun 11, 2010
Accepted: Feb 3, 2011
Published online: Dec 15, 2011
Published in print: Jan 1, 2012
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