Bridges

Monitoring by instrumentation of existing bridge structures can provide valuable insights into the real-time load response and ultimately, the current structural performance of these bridges. This information can be used to extend their operational life through structural health monitoring (SHM) and targeted strengthening or repair works. The demand for optimised bridge asset management solutions integrating monitoring systems is increasing, as asset owners look for cost-effective ways to extend the life of their bridges against the demand for heavier, and more frequent freight vehicles on the road network.

Bridge monitoring by instrumentation involves installing any number of sensors on a bridge to measure material strain or temperature, structure movement and rotation, or similar. Data recorded from the sensors is used to inform on the real-time behaviour of the structure. To validate a bridge monitoring system, the data from controlled load testing can be assessed for correlation with results from a structural model.

This paper provides an overview of bridge monitoring by instrumentation, and delves into the details of a recent project application, including bridge load rating and identification of critical and effective measurement locations; selection of measurement sensors and system hardware setup; validation of data, using structural models and controlled load testing; opportunities to use system data to inform on structure performance metrics; lessons learnt from recent relevant projects.