Nondestructive Load Testing and Comparison of Approaches for Bridge Load Rating Using ASD, LFD, and LRFD Methods.
Iplikcioglu, Merve.
2012
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Abstract: The Powder
Mill Bridge in Barre, Massachusetts (Vernon Avenue over Ware River, Bridge No. B-02-012
was instrumented during construction and diagnostic load tests were performed. Bridge
load ratings were calculated using the Allowable Stress Design, Load Factor Design, and
Load and Resistance Factor Design methods with four different approaches. Initially, the
rating factors of the ... read morePowder Mill Bridge were calculated by hand. The second approach
used the bridge load rating program Virtis 6.3, developed by the American Association of
State Highway and Transportation Officials, and the results were compared with the hand
calculations. The third approach consisted of using the data collected during the
diagnostic load tests to modify the load rating factor calculated by hand. The
diagnostic load test data was also used to calibrate a finite element model of the
Powder Mill Bridge. Finally, the fourth approach used a calibrated finite element model
to determine load rating factors of Powder Mill Bridge. The rating factors obtained by
using nondestructive test data and the finite element model were higher than the
conventional load rating factor since both of these methods take advantage of the true
three dimensional system behavior of the structure. The comparison and explanation of
the aforementioned methods for calculating rating factors provide bridge owners with
insight into the different approaches for calculating bridge load rating factors for
maintenance and management decisions.
Thesis (M.S.)--Tufts University, 2012.
Submitted to the Dept. of Civil Engineering.
Advisor: Masoud Sanayei.
Committee: Brian Brenner, Erin Bell, and Gregory Imbaro.
Keyword: Civil engineering.read less - ID:
- 4t64h045w
- Component ID:
- tufts:20867
- To Cite:
- TARC Citation Guide EndNote
