ABSTRACT
In December 2003 a European project on railway bridges was commenced. The project is part of the European Commission’s sixth framework programme and is an integrated project named “Sustainable Bridges – Assessment for Future Traffic Demands and Longer Lives”. As the title indicates the main objectives for the project are to:
– increase the load carrying capacity of the existing railway bridges and allowing axle loads up to 33 tons for freight trains with moderate speeds
– increase the speeds for passenger trains and thereby allowing for a higher capacity for passenger traffic
– increase the service life of existing railway bridges by 25% – enhance methods for strengthening and repair.
