Efficient Load Rating and Quantification of Life-Cycle Damage of Indiana Bridges Due to Overweight Loads

摘要

In this study, a computational approach for conducting durability analysis of bridges using detailed finite element models is developed. The underlying approach adopted is based on the hypothesis that the two main factors affecting the life of a bridge structure are the level of repetitive loading it sustains and the natural condition of the bridge that may be thought of as a combined effect of both, physical processes in the environment that cause deterioration and any maintenance activity undertaken to thwart such processes. Detailed finite element models of representative bridges are developed and subjected to a set of representative traffic loads repeatedly. Finite element model updation is used to characterize the evolution of damage over the lifetime of a bridge and real-life data from inspection reports of bridges is used to calibrate the durability models developed. The results of this approach may be used to evaluate the permit fee structure for overweight trucks and make informed decisions for asset management of the bridges in INDOT’s inventory.