ABSTRACT
Mainmark have introduced the STRAAM system of full scale structural integrity assessment and continuous monitoring for dams, buildings and bridges into Australia and New Zealand. Advances in measuring extremely low amplitude vibrations combined with methods for extracting the unique dynamic signature have now enabled the rapid measurement of the response of steel and concrete structures. The STRAAM method utilises the normal traffic conditions and wind loads on the structure to measure the frequency response of the structure. This allows the quick calibration of Finite Element Models that can be used to accurately assess the strength of the structure. Furthermore, this information allows asset owners to efficiently track changes in the capacity of their structures due to aging, impact, earthquake or flood activity through changes in the vibration of the structure and associated natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping ratios.
