Fiber Optic Methods in Condition Assessment of Bridges

Bridges are the encompassing framework of daily life and are considered significant investments that must be maintained for safe and efficient operations. In addition to visual inspections, several nondestructive test (NDT) methods are available for assessing the condition of individual elements of bridges. In many instances, the bridges must be instrumented to assess issues or assure safe operations, especially in the case of larger spans and complex designs. In larger bridges, it is customary and economically viable to use global approaches, i.e., by modal analysis, with few accelerometers to establish the structural system's general state of health. In other circumstances, public safety and the nature of the structural problems dictate quantitative assessment by instrumenting the bridge with several types of sensors. Because many kinds of sensors, systems, and analysis techniques are available, the question remains as to which technique yields the right results most economically. This presentation explains how fiber optic sensors were employed to solve bridge issues. The important point to consider in designing a health monitoring system is that basic engineering principles provide the backing for assessing the structure's state, not the multiplicity of sensors. 1 hour CE credit Learning Objectives 1) We monitor bridges to ensure safety, reduce life-cycle maintenance costs, and learn of in-service structural and materials behavior. 2) Structural monitoring shall begin with a well-defined objective for solving specific problems. 3) The critical point to consider in designing a structural health monitoring system is that basic engineering principles provide the backing for assessing the structure's state, not the multiplicity of sensors. Presenter: Farhad Ansari Date: 8/6/2024