Title: Reliability-based load-rating procedure for existing bridges

Authors: Stuart G. Reid

Addresses: Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia

Abstract: A procedure has been developed to enable structural engineers to assess the reliability of existing bridges and to determine reliability-based load-ratings for existing bridges without using the classical methods of structural reliability analysis. The reliability index β is expressed as an explicit function of load and resistance parameters similar to those considered in conventional structural engineering calculations. Furthermore, the calculation procedures are formulated to account for the beneficial |proof-loading| effect of historical traffic loading that has been successfully carried without damage. The results are based on a new type of traffic load model that has been calibrated in relation to Australian traffic load data.

Keywords: bridges; load rating; old structures; proof loading; safety; structural engineering; structural reliability; traffic loads; built environment; bridge reliability; Australia; risk assessment; risk management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRAM.2007.014668

International Journal of Risk Assessment and Management, 2007 Vol.7 No.6/7, pp.945 - 967

Published online: 23 Jul 2007 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article