Abstract
This study investigates the load sharing capabilities for half-caps of a 190m long timber bridge. The bridge has 31 spans over the Avon River in Toodyay, Western Australia. It was constructed from local hardwood timbers and had a series of repairs. However as the width between kerbs was only 5.5 m and it was no footpath it was decided to replace the bridge by a new wider concrete structure. The proposed removal of the existing bridge provided an opportunity to carry out a research program aimed at bridge inspection, estimation of timber material properties, required for more accurate modeling of structural failure as well as selection of improved repair techniques and strengthening methods. Non- destructive evaluation of the bridge prior to construction of a new one was conducted using trucks to provide both static and dynamic loadings. Half-cap load sharing was examined for north and south loading of the bridge deck at the pier and span positions. This paper deals with the results obtained only the north loading case at the pier position. As Toodyay Bridge 631 is a typical timber bridge in Western Australia, the findings of this study can be applied to other bridges to prolong their lifetime.
Highlights
Over time, bridges may become structurally or functionally deficient
The half-cap load sharing was examined for north and south loading of the bridge deck at the pier and span positions
The eastern half-cap at pier 24 supported the greatest percentage of load, and the western half-cap at pier 21 supported the majority of the load, which may be due to the slope of the bridge at these locations
Summary
Bridges may become structurally or functionally deficient. Structurally, the deficiency can result of deterioration, damage, or increased load requirements in excess of the design capacity. Structural deficiencies are corrected by preventative or routine maintenance If such maintenance is continually neglected, major maintenance may be required to restore the bridge to its original capacity. Onsite load testing of bridges has become a widely accepted method for obtaining the best possible estimate of a bridge’s true load capacity. With such information in hand, the chances of unexpected deterioration of bridge deck that would occur with the passage of time can be controlled or minimized [1]. Non-destructive evaluation of the old bridge prior to construction of the new one was conducted in 2000 To provide both static and dynamic loading trucks were used [7]. As the tested bridge is a typical one in the surrounding area, the outcomes of this study could be applied to improved maintenance and load rating of the remaining timber bridges in the road network
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