Predicting Lifetime Bearing Demands Due to Bridge Aging and Design Variations

Abstract

The importance of long-term performance and safety of bridge bearings is paramount. Limitations in the inspection process as well as uncertainties in the maintenance scheduling of bridge bearings have led to a limited understanding of the lifelong performance of such components over their service life. To aid bridge owners facilitate an efficient system for repairs and management of bridge bearings, the initial step is to quantify the demands they typically experience over their service life. In this study, a framework quantifying bridge bearing demands due to thermal, traffic, and seismic loading is presented. The effect of bridge aging is accounted through corrosion prediction models. In reinforced concrete members, the reduction of the steel reinforcement and cover cracking and spalling is considered, and a uniform reduction of the steel in the case of steel members. Six bridge models are considered with variations in the number of bridge spans and two superstructure types; precast concrete girder and slab on steel girder. Monte Carlo simulation is used to account for uncertainties in corrosion model parameters and bridge loadings. The results of this study can be used for future experimental investigation of the fatigue performance of bridge bearings.