The capacity to bear the load of existing bridges has been
analyzed with static calculations based on old plans. To avoid closures or
premature reconstruction works, the Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und
-prüfung (BAM) relies on the results of state-of-the-art testing methods, which
could be incorporated into the structural analyses in the future.
In Germany, recurring inspections are performed to ensure
the safety of bridges. In addition, static calculations are used to assess
whether a structure can continue to withstand the predicted traffic loads. If
it turns out that it has deficiencies, protective measures are initiated - for
example, a closure for heavy vehicles, structural strengthening, or even
demolition and subsequent new construction.
In case of doubt, to ensure the safety of the users,
authorities tend to favor a partial or complete closure or a renewal to avoid
any hazards. "In many cases, the calculations are not based on on-site
measurement data describing the structure's condition, but on documents created
during construction and also on assumptions if drawings are missing or incomplete,"
says Stefan Küttenbaum, expert for structural inspections at BAM. "Modern
non-destructive testing methods facilitate much more detailed assessments of
bridges. So far, however, these methods have not been considered in the
national reassessment guidelines. Therefore, their great potential for
identifying structural reserves in static calculations and thus for avoiding,
for example, unnecessary use restrictions or premature renewals cannot be
unlocked."
Stefan Küttenbaum coordinates the research project
"ZfPStatik" at BAM. It has set itself the goal of integrating the
most modern structural testing methods into the calculations: "By
supplementing the rules and regulations, we want to ensure that our built
environment is treated in a sustainable and demand-actuated manner while
maintaining the proven high-level of structural safety in Germany. In this way,
the availability of transport infrastructure to the public will be increased -
and we will use our resources more responsibly."
In the project, BAM will analyze the capabilities and
limitations of various non-destructive testing methods. The quality of the test
results will be evaluated for common bridge types and dismantled reference
structures. Finally, stakeholders are provided with procedures and processes
allowing economical and reliable non-destructive testing on-site.
The "ZfPStatik" project, with a total volume of 1.1 million euros, is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. In addition to BAM, the Bundeswehr University Munich, the HTW Berlin (University of Applied Sciences), several established engineering offices, and the German Committee for Reinforced Concrete (DAfStb) is part of the consortium.
Source- www.bam.de
