Nondestructive Experimental Measurement, Model Updating, and Fatigue Life Assessment of Çarşamba Suspension Bridge

Abstract

This paper includes the structural condition assessment of a 164-m suspension bridge in accordance with numerical and experimental methods. A finite-element model was developed using SAP2000 software so that the assessment of the bridge could be calculated numerically. The operational modal analysis method was also used to obtain experimental dynamic characteristics. In this context: (i) numerical dynamic characteristics of the bridge were obtained and compared with the experimental dynamic characteristics, (ii) a model updating procedure was carried out to minimize the differences between the numerical and experimental natural frequencies, (iii) static and dynamic analyses of the bridge were carried out by using the initial and updated finite-element models, (iv) fatigue life assessment of the bridge was investigated, and (v) the utility of the bridge for pedestrians and vehicles was checked according to various regulations. The results showed that updating the finite-element model had a significant role to play in the static and dynamic behavior of the bridge. The results also demonstrated that the bridge was designed to be extremely safe against static, dynamic, and fatigue loads. Finally, it was concluded that the bridge investigated behaves as a girder bridge rather than a suspension bridge.