ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT: This paper focuses on the viability of theoretical predictive models in recognizing the most appropriate time for maintenance intervention in critical structural elements of bridge assets. The key objective is in providing deterministic, theoretical underpinning to visually inspected condition data. It is proposed to achieve that objective by conducting a real-time theoretical simulation of flexural stresses, taking into account the age dependent behavior of shrinkage, creep (under sustained loads) and imposed loads. In doing so, crack widths can be theoretically estimated over the life cycle of the bridge girders. The paper proposes a Theoretical Age of Intervention (TAoI), based on crack depth reaching a critical value, which may not be otherwise conceivable to human eye. The paper demonstrates that such a theoretically predicted time of intervention, when calibrated using the condition monitoring data, would provide asset owners with a useful tool for maintenance planning.