Vibration-Based Method and Sensor for Monitoring of Bridge Scour
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 17, Issue 6
Abstract
Scour is the major cause for many bridge failures and damage to piers and abutments. Scour is not easily discernible because it is hidden under the channel flow. Over the years, a number of sensors have been developed for detection of scour depth. Development, testing, and field implementation of a new and simple type of scour sensor is described in this paper. The scour depth detection concept is based on measuring the fundamental frequency of vibration of a rod embedded in the riverbed. The sensor uses a single fiber-optic Bragg grating (FBG) sensor for transduction of the vibration frequency. The inverse relationship between the fundamental frequency and the length of the sensor rod is used for detection of the scour depth. A computational approach is developed based on the Winkler spring reaction soil model for automated calibration of the scour sensor during installation in the riverbed. The scope of the research included development of the theoretical basis for the sensor, establishment of the computational methodology for detection of the riverbed foundation properties, proof-of-concept laboratory tests, small-scale field verification tests, and installation and remote monitoring of scour in a multispan scour critical bridge in Illinois. The results include laboratory test data from the measurements in soil, simulated scour tests in a hydraulic flume, and real-time data from remote monitoring of scour at the bridge site.
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Acknowledgments
This publication is based on the results of ICT-11-080, Field Implementation and Evaluation of Simple and Cost Effective Scour Sensor. ICT-11-080 was conducted in cooperation with the Illinois Center for Transportation; the Division of Highways, IDOT; and the U.S. Department of Transportation, FHWA. The contents of this study reflect the views of the writers, who are responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the Illinois Center for Transportation, the IDOT, or the FHWA. This study does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 17 • Issue 6 • November 2012
Pages: 829 - 838
Copyright
© 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Apr 3, 2011
Accepted: Dec 21, 2011
Published online: Dec 23, 2011
Published in print: Nov 1, 2012
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