Abstract
The reliability of load-bearing structures is normally secured through codes, a competent structural design and proper execution inspection. Alternatively, the reliability can be obtained via skilled test loading, which is a feasible technique both in the construction of new structures and in the load-bearing verification of existing ones. Although the current codes lack instructions for test loading, they are, however, used in special cases; for example, when the reliability of the structures is doubtful due to a defect, or when the structure is suspected to have especially high resistance variability. Test loading involves significant research questions that need to be addressed, including: What is the test load in comparison with the expected maximum service time load or the characteristic load? How can the instantaneous test load be compared with the actual long-term service-time load? Does the test loading harm the structure, and what is the target reliability in the test loading calculation? In this paper, we approach these questions from a theoretical point of view and propose how a suitable test load can be chosen in practice using an approximate and a precise approach.
Highlights
The trustworthiness of a structure is normally secured through codes, a competent structural design and proper execution control
If the mean resistance is 1.9 times the characteristic load and the coefficient of resistance variation is 15%, the test loading for a floor joist is 1.27 times the characteristic load for the permanent load and 1.50 times for the variable load VQ = 0.2; the combination values are obtained from a linear interpolation
Test loading was found to be advantageous in many ways, including the following aspects
Summary
The trustworthiness of a structure is normally secured through codes, a competent structural design and proper execution control. Skilled test loading is an alternative technique that may be used as a partial or full replacement of special code stipulations, comprehensive design calculations or special quality-control measures. The current codes, lack detailed instructions for test loading. The Eurocodes [1,2,3] include general guidelines for test loading without the reliability survey, which is the key focus of this article. For this reason, test loading is seldom applied in structural practice, and its full potential is not normally understood. The theory and the principles presented here apply to both cases
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