Cost, benefit, and value of bridge load testing

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Alampalli, S. | Ettouney, M.

Affiliations: New York State Department of Transportation, Albany, NY, USA | Weidlinger Associates, New York, NY, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: Load testing is gaining popularity among bridge owners to take advantage of the actual load capacity that can not be estimated using conservative analyses. This paper provides an easy, generalized model for evaluating the value of load testing using costs and benefits of load tests. Both quantitative and qualitative benefits are included. Also explored are the effects of load tests on the life cycle analysis of bridges and quantification of extended life of bridges due to load testing.

Keywords: Load testing, cost-benefit modeling, load testing value, bridge testing

DOI: 10.3233/BRS-2010-010

Journal: Bridge Structures, vol. 6, no. 3-4, pp. 121-127, 2010