ABSTRACT
This paper describes the techniques employed in the probabilistic assessment of a concrete arch motorway bridge. The probability-based classification of the structure serves as an example of how the newly developed Danish guideline for probability-based assessment of bridges is applied. Modelling of the critical limit state is presented. The statistical techniques employed in modelling the traffic loads are presented. The overall aim of this analysis was to achieve a higher load rating for the structure than that resulting from a deterministic analysis. The sensitivity of the reliability index to the modelled stochastic variables is presented. Ultimately the cost benefits to bridge owners/managers of performing a probabilistic assessment are apparent from the results, which provide a higher load rating for the concrete arch bridge than that achieved through deterministic assessment.
