Experimental load rating study of a historic truss bridge

Thomas E. Boothby, Richard J. Craig

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

A field test of a complicated statically indeterminate floor system on a historic steel truss bridge has been conducted to obtain a more accurate load rating of the structure than possible using calculated predictions of wheel load distributions. The empirically determined wheel load distributions resulted in the identification of the floor system, particularly the transverse floor beams, as the element governing the load rating of the structure. Favorable lateral distribution of wheel loads among the stringers by a glued laminated treated timber deck was noted. The experimental determination of wheel load distributions has provided an inexpensive means of intelligently allocating limited county resources for the maintenance and rehabilitation of an inventory of aging bridges.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)18-26
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Bridge Engineering
Volume2
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1997

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Experimental load rating study of a historic truss bridge'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this