Load testing and health monitoring of monolithic bridges with innovative reinforcement
International Journal of Structural Integrity
ISSN: 1757-9864
Article publication date: 31 August 2021
Issue publication date: 10 November 2021
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to investigate effectiveness of the strengthening method, the construction process monitoring, fielding-load tests before and after strengthening, and health monitoring after reinforcement were carried out. The results of concrete strain and deflection show that the flexural strength and stiffness of the strengthened beam are improved.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper describes prestressed steel strand as a way to strengthen a 25-year-old continuous rigid frame bridge. High strength, low relaxation steel strand with high tensile strain and good corrosion resistance were used in this reinforcement. The construction process for strengthening with prestressed steel strand and steel plate was described. Ultimate bearing capacity of the bridge after strengthening was discussed based on finite element model.
Findings
The cumulative upward deflection of the second span the third span was 39.7 mm, which is basically consistent with the theoretical value, and the measured value is smaller than the theoretical value. The deflection value of the second span during data acquisition was −20 mm–10 mm, which does not exceed the maximum deflection value of live load, and the deflection of the bridge is in a safe state during normal use. Thus, this strengthened way with prestressed steel wire rope is feasible and effective.
Originality/value
This paper describes prestressed steel strand as a way to strengthen a 25-year-old continuous rigid frame bridge. To investigate effectiveness of the strengthening method, the construction process monitoring, fielding-load tests before and after strengthening and health monitoring after reinforcement were carried out.
Keywords
Citation
Zhang, K., Qi, T., Li, D., Xue, X. and Zhu, Z. (2021), "Load testing and health monitoring of monolithic bridges with innovative reinforcement", International Journal of Structural Integrity, Vol. 12 No. 6, pp. 904-921. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSI-11-2020-0103
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited