Publisher's Synopsis
The stresses imposed on UK roads by forty tonne vehicles have led to an extensive programme of bridge improvements across the country. This book draws on case studies to create an essential tool for all bridge engineers involved in strengthening steel bridges to meet these challenges. Resulting from the Highways Agency's assessment and strengthening of steel and steel/concrete composite bridges, this report disseminates the knowledge gained and ingenuity used during this work and will be an invaluable reference for future work. It covers measures beyond the initial assessment to avoid or limit strengthening. Steel Bridge Strengthening identifies strengthening solutions which may have application elsewhere, whether modified or not, and illustrates these by means of case studies. The report also includes the upgrading of bridge parapets and remedial works following bridge bashing and discusses areas such as fatigue, the identification of research requirements, steelwork inspection prior to works, contractual experience and lessons learned for the future.;The main body of the book consists of case studies which provide the reader with a wealth of experience which can be applied to their own situation. The 39 case studies include work carried out on the Midland Links, Huntworth Viaduct, Conwy Bridge and Avonmouth Bridge and also incorporates work on many smaller bridges. Local authorities, consultants and contractors will all find the extensive experience gathered from work in this area an invaluable source of information.