ABSTRACT
Railway bridges with masonry abutments represent a significant portion of aging infrastructure in north Sweden. The assessment of their structural integrity is crucial to ensure safe and efficient railway operations. This paper presents the development of a proof loading method tailored specifically for railway bridges with masonry abutments. Before conducting loading tests, the bridge condition was assessed through visual inspections using ground-based photogrammetry and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). Realistic loads were simulated using a carefully chosen train fleet during the tests to evaluate load-carrying capacity and structural integrity. Comprehensive data, including strains, displacements, temperature, and acceleration measurements, were collected to gain insights into the bridges’ behavior under real-life loading conditions. This data played a crucial role in making accurate predictions and guiding maintenance decisions for targeted rehabilitation efforts. To enhance capacity assessments, finite element models were calibrated using the test results, enabling confident predictions of how the bridges would respond to various loads. This rigorous approach ensures the safe operation of these historic bridges during planned heavy transports while adhering to safety standards. By employing the proposed proof loading method and utilizing advanced monitoring techniques, railway authorities can effectively manage the maintenance and preservation of these crucial structures.
