ABSTRACT
This contribution aims to present the application of a probabilistic methodology to update the characteristic train load for the Little Belt Bridge (Lillebæltsbroen), constructed in 1935, in Denmark. On the basis of measurements near the bridge between March 2016 and December 2021 the characteristic train load is updated based upon actual train passages on the structure. This paper presents the basis for this probabilistic analysis which concluded that (i) the theoretical train load determined in 1996 based on the background studies carried out in the 1980s for the Great Belt fixed link was still appropriate and (ii) that the load reduction factor which reflects the joint probability of occurrence of two heavy trains on the bridge also still is appropriate and might even be reduced slightly. The paper presents the basis for the analysis of characteristic loads for an existing structure where recorded loading data is available. It serves as a valuable contribution for bridge owners tasked with the management of existing landmark structures.
