Bridge Load Tests involve test trucks, data acquisition and computer models.

Field inspection

Bridge load test

Data acquisition system

FEM computer model

Building a FEM computer model of bridge response can squeeze additional

information out of expensive test results.

More than ten people, much equipment and three days.

Just one man and a computer.

Concrete strength is usually unknown during a bridge test.

Drilling holes will damage the bridge deck

An assumed strength value is used to calculate Ec

cfEC '000,57

Girder end restraint is a variable factor during load tests.

Debris between girder ends

Spring restraint used in the model

Suitable mesh density is selected to get an accurate and efficient model.

We set the plate thickness equal to the N.A depth from measurements.

Special test truck loads and five different load positions were used in

the FEM model.

Load position 1

Typical strain data from bridge test.

A ½-scale bridge girder was constructed in the lab to verify transducer accuracy.

Wood form

Pouring concrete

Tested beam

Test load system: load cell, hydraulic cylinder pump and spread beam

We built a FEM model of the lab-beam.