Permanent Structural Health Check of Signature Bridges

Abstract

Asset management of signature bridges requires innovative approaches. Decision making cannot follow available codes and standards because these do not cover the extraordinary size and importance of these assets. Decision making in asset management shall be based on reliable data and prediction technologies.

In order to ensure safety, durability and operability, information on the structural performance of the respective bridge is required. Monitoring producing information on the performance of these structures has become mature after intensive research and development funded by the European Commission. Most of the parameters that describe bridge performance can now reasonably be monitored.

The paper includes an example of successful implementation, refers to a useful classification and specifies the applicable standards that can provide a framework for risk-based asset management approaches.