Load Rating of a Fully Instrumented Bridge: Comparison of LRFR Approaches
Publication: Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 30, Issue 2
Abstract
This paper presents a comparison of three methods used to load rate the Powder Mill Bridge based on the load and resistance factor rating (LRFR) approach. This is a typical three-span continuous bridge with steel girders in composite action with the RC bridge deck. The three methods are as follows: (1) employing the conventional design office load rating technique using a simplified line girder analysis, (2) using strain measurements from a diagnostic load test to adjust the design office rating to account for in-situ bridge behavior, and (3) using a finite-element (FE) model of the bridge, which accounts for three-dimensional (3D) structural system behavior. Advantages and disadvantages of each method are related to speed, ease of use, reviewability, cost, accuracy, and type of use intended. Similarities and differences in utilizing these three methods are discussed. The advanced load rating methods are shown to produce higher ratings in comparison with the conventional approach.
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Acknowledgments
Gratitude is given for the funding of the research reported in this paper by the National Science Foundation Partnerships for Innovation Program under Grant No. 0650258. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this paper are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation. Additionally, Massachusetts DOT and the town of Barre are thanked for access to the Powder Mill Bridge, and Fay Spofford and Thorndike Inc. for access to design calculations and drawings. Geocomp Corporation is also thanked for extensive help during the instrumentation phase. Finally, previous Tufts graduate student John E. Phelps is thanked for the use of a calibrated finite-element model, and previous Tufts graduate student Merve Iplikcioglu for work on the PMB load rating.
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Published In
Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 30 • Issue 2 • April 2016
Copyright
© 2015 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jul 1, 2014
Accepted: Jan 12, 2015
Published online: Mar 30, 2015
Discussion open until: Aug 30, 2015
Published in print: Apr 1, 2016
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