Strategic use of nondestructive evaluation methods in bridge management systems

Abstract

A basis for the direct use of data from nondestructive evaluation methods in bridge management systems is presented. Bridge management systems use integer-valued condition ratings to recognize conditions of bridge elements, to model progression of deterioration, and to determine repair needs. Data from nondestructive evaluation methods can inform management systems on the extent of damage, on the initiation of deterioration processes, and on the exposure of bridge elements to aggressive agents. In addition, data obtained through nondestructive evaluation methods allow the formation of models of specific deterioration process. The use of these data in bridge management systems requires redefinition of condition ratings together with the creation of procedures for automated interpretation of data. By these action, nondestructive evaluation methods are directly used to assign condition ratings, and condition ratings are made into terse form of NDE data that are compatible with present day bridge management systems. This paper reports work in progress to strategic use of nondestructive evaluation methods in bridge management system.