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Stop criteria for proof load testing using a traffic light system

  • Gabriela Zarate Garnica
  • , Fengqiao Zhang
  • , Yuguang Yang
  • , Max Hendriks
  • , Eva Lantsoght*
  • *Corresponding author for this work
  • Delft University of Technology

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

During a proof load test on a bridge, high magnitude loads are applied. To avoid causing irreversible damage, thresholds to the structural responses, the so-called stop criteria, need to be defined. This paper proposes to categorize stop criteria into three levels: green light (related to the serviceability limit state), yellow light (related to potential irreversible damage) and red light (related to potential local collapse). For the Ultimate Limit State, stop criteria for shear and flexure are defined. Shear stop criteria are derived from mechanical models, using traditional strain measurements and acoustic emission measurements. These stop criteria are validated with experiments on reinforced concrete slab strips, straight slabs, and skewed slabs. The resulting traffic light system gives the bridge engineer a tool to make decisions during a proof load test. This approach is a step forward in the interpretation of structural responses during proof load testing.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationIABSE Congress Ghent 2025
Subtitle of host publicationThe Essence of Structural Engineering for Society, Proceedings
EditorsDavide Leonetti, Bert Snijder, Bart De Pauw, Bart De Pauw, Sander van Alphen
PublisherInternational Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE)
Pages1464-1471
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9783857482106
DOIs
StatePublished - 2025
Event2025 International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering, IABSE 2025 - Ghent, Belgium
Duration: 27 Aug 202529 Aug 2025

Publication series

NameIABSE Congress Ghent 2025: The Essence of Structural Engineering for Society, Proceedings

Conference

Conference2025 International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering, IABSE 2025
Country/TerritoryBelgium
CityGhent
Period27/08/2529/08/25

Keywords

  • assessment
  • bridge testing
  • damage indicators
  • experiments
  • flexure
  • mechanical models
  • proof load testing
  • shear
  • stop criteria
  • traffic light system

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