Traffic Generated Vibrations and Bridge Integrity

Abstract

There is a well established tradition for the use of dynamic test procedures, in the determination of the real characteristics of structures. These concepts have been extended by taking measurements of the bridge vibrations generated by the normal passage of vehicles, and analyzing these data to see if it was possible to determine the dynamic characteristics of the bridges. A preliminary investigation has been made of the possible assessment of structural integrity by means of these measurements. One of the factors that has been considered as a diagnostic tool is a plot of fundamental frequency versus span. A second possibility is an analysis of the overall vibration levels on the bridge, in relation to the energy input created by the traffic. Further work would seem to be justified, in order to determine the true value of this exploratory experimental study. This should include a comparison with other proven experimental techniques, as well as support based on theoretical predictions of bridge characteristics.