Extradosed bridge - Theoretical and experimental verification

Abstract

Design of bridges is a complex task for civil engineers. When designing, there usually is a time necessity to verify all details. In many cases, design of certain parts of the bridge structure is done on the basis of experience. Therefore, a proof-load test is suggested in certain cases. The main purpose of testing is to verify calculation model and assumptions of bridge designer. Actual reserves in load-carrying capacity of the new bridge structure can be determined after test evaluation. In the case of a reconstructed bridge, the load test can verify suitability of transformation model and efficiency of reconstruction as well. A static calculation of constructed bridge has to be done before experimental verifying. To satisfy all demanded code requests, still more and more precise transformation models are demanded. In the paper, the rather sophisticated bridge superstructure is considered; computer modelling discussed and measured values evaluation given. © 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.