Service life prediction of Prestressed Concrete Road Bridge using structural audit data and comparison of life 365 software and mathematical model

Abstract

Abstract The Modern transport infrastructure necessarily utilizes pre-stressed concrete (PSC) girder bridges, which provide both efficient and secure passage for vehicles. But as they pass on their service life, these bridges experience a variety of environmental, traffic, and load-induced stresses that can endanger their structural integrity. To maintain the long-term safety and operation of PSC bridges, it is crucial to undertake periodic structural checks. For this work, a PSC Bridge with an average span length of 20 m has been chosen. This bridge’s fundamental structural element is I-section PSC girder. The bridge was built in compliance with the IRC 6 loading specifications. To ascertain the state of the road bridge, several non-destructive tests are carried out, including destructive testing, non-destructive testing, and visual inspection. The required strength and serviceability checks are carried out using the model created from the audit data using the MIDAS software. Wind and seismic analyses are carried out and comparison of results for current condition and initial condition is done. Bridge service life prediction is a critical component of infrastructure management, seeking to determine how long a bridge will continue to work and be structurally sound before requiring substantial repairs or replacement. It entails a thorough evaluation of the design, construction quality, materials, surrounding environment, maintenance procedures, and traffic loads.