Load Rating of Reinforced Concrete Slab Bridges Using Field Testing

Andrawes, Bassem; Colombani, Isaias Andres; Mirdad, Md Abdul Hamid; Chen, Alexander Jai-syn

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/125147 Copy

Description

Title

Load Rating of Reinforced Concrete Slab Bridges Using Field Testing

Author(s)

• Andrawes, Bassem
• Colombani, Isaias Andres
• Mirdad, Md Abdul Hamid
• Chen, Alexander Jai-syn

Issue Date

2024-12

Keyword(s)

• AASHTO
• Load Rating
• LFR
• MBE
• Effective Width
• Diagnostic Test
• Proof Load Test
• Reinforced Concrete Bridge
• Slab Bridges

Abstract

Bridge load-rating analysis is typically used to assess the safe load-carrying capacity of bridges. However, in many cases, this analytical approach was proven to be too conservative, which leads to unnecessary bridge postings and road restrictions. In such cases, field testing is sought as a more reliable method for assessing the structural condition of the investigated bridge. This study focused on investigating the efficacy and practicality of performing load rating on reinforced concrete slab bridges in Illinois using two field testing methods—namely, diagnostic and proof load testing. The versatility of both methods was examined through testing six different slab bridges of varying characteristics and conditions. The tested bridges included single- and double-span bridges with span lengths varying between 20.5 ft and 32 ft, and skew angles varying between 0 and 55 degrees. The bridges also varied in age, with the first tested bridge’s construction dating as far back as 1925. The research assessed the type of instrumentation and data acquisition system used as well as the challenges associated with setting up these devices in the field. The analytical and field-based load-rating factors were compared for each bridge. The results showed the effectiveness of field testing in providing a relatively fast and reliable assessment of the structural condition of the investigated bridges. The methods adopted and developed in this research will assist the Illinois Department of Transportation in making future decisions about the condition of bridges in Illinois.

Publisher

Illinois Center for Transportation/Illinois Department of Transportation

Has Part

• ISSN: 0197-9191
• https://doi.org/10.36501/0197-9191/24-025

Series/Report Name or Number

FHWA-ICT-24-022

Type of Resource

text

Language

eng

Sponsor(s)/Grant Number(s)

IDOT-R27-205

Copyright and License Information

No restrictions. This document is available through the National Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA 22161.

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