Engineered Heat-Straightening Repairs: A Case Study

Abstract

The goal of this study was twofold: (1) To demonstrate that engineered heat straightening is a viable alternative for the repair of damaged steel bridge girders; and (2) to illustrate how the latest results of research and development can be implemented for heat-straightening repairs. The bridge chosen for repair crosses over I-10 in Louisiana, just east of Lake Charles. Working with personnel from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the bridge was repaired during August 1998. A fascia noncomposite beam had been impacted, and the bottom flange was displaced 0.43 m (17 in.). The repair was designed by the writers and implemented in conjunction with Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development personnel. Described in this paper are the design of the repair, including assessment of damage, selection of heating patterns, development of jacking restraint locations and magnitudes, and heating sequences; the step-by-step implementation; a cost comparison; and a discussion of lessons learned. It is concluded that heat straightening is an effective alternative for repairing damaged steel bridges, when implemented with proper engineering design.