On most short span bridges, headstocks are used to connect the bridge superstructure with the substructure. Deterioration of existing headstocks due to increased traffic loading and structural aging has become evident in many bridges in Australia and worldwide. The number of heavy trucks and traffic volume on these bridges have increased and exceeded the values used at the time of theiruddesign. Structural upgrades of headstocks usually require the existing headstock to be strengthened, both in shear and flexure, and the magnitude of increase is normally in the order of 100% of the original capacity. As such, there is an urgent need for strengthening bridge elements such asudheadstocks using appropriate strengthening technologies.
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