Instrumentation and Load Test gf the Exploradores Suspension Bridge

Authors

  • Frank Schanack Universidad Austral de Chile
  • Cristian Salcedo Dirección de Vialidad Región de Aysén
  • José Pablo Gacitua PONTINEL Spa
  • Mauricio Cárdenas STRADALE Ingeniería de Proyectos & Asesorías Ltda
  • Ítalo Rivera STRADALE Ingeniería de Proyectos & Asesorías Ltda

Keywords:

Instrumentation, Load test, Suspension bridge, Strain gauge

Abstract

In May 2021, the UACh Bridge Engineering Laboratory conducted the instrumentation and load testing of the "Exploradores Footbridge," a vehicular suspension bridge with a 132.0-meter span located in the Región de Aysén. The measurements were compared with a finite element model. The aim of the study was to verify the proper performance of the newly constructed structure, which features a unique typology and size. The instrumentation included 16 strain gauges to measure the variation in force in the main cables, 4 inclinometers to record longitudinal and transverse inclinations of the towers, 3 accelerometers to measure vertical vibrations of the deck, and a topographic station to measure deck deflections at 6 different points. Additionally, an accelerometer was used to determine the permanent force of the main cables through the vibrating string method. The load test was performed with a light truck both loaded (4 t) and unloaded (2.1 t). Two static and three dynamic tests were conducted. Overall, the load test confirmed the proper functioning of the footbridge. Both the forces and the deformations and vibrations were very close to the theoretical values and within safety ranges. However, some specific conclusions regarding the actual structural behavior of the bridge should be considered for the proper interpretation of potential future damage and defects. Regarding the results on the impact factor, it is recommended to complement the work with similar studies.

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Published

2024-08-25

How to Cite

Schanack , F., Salcedo , C., Gacitua , J. P., Cárdenas , M., & Rivera , Ítalo. (2024). Instrumentation and Load Test gf the Exploradores Suspension Bridge. Journal of Construction and Civil Engineering, 12(2). Retrieved from https://rioc.ufro.cl/index.php/rioc/article/view/3364

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2024): RIOC

Section

Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2024 Frank Schanack , Cristian Salcedo , José Pablo Gacitua , Mauricio Cárdenas , Ítalo Rivera

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