Ensuring the reliability of bridge structures : study material for bridge design course

Abstract

This paper investigates the concept of reliability of bridges and ways of its ensuring at the design stage. The described design concept is aimed at preventing the collapse of bridge structures or minimizing their consequences by choosing most reliable design solutions. Since the problem of bridge collapse remains relevant, the distribution, discussion, and analysis of the principles of such approach is necessary.

The main purpose of this paper is to describe the basics of the reliable bridge design approach to civil engineering students. To help students to clearly understand this concept, paper familiarize them with the process of bridge structures evolution and base structural forms of bridges, give a clear explanation of such definitions as reliability and robustness by giving relevant examples of bridge collapse cases, describing the cause of failure, weaknesses of structure, risky solutions, the risks they high and the ways to avoid them. Especially attention is emphasized to the problem of progressive collapse, accidental actions of vehicles, hidden defects, and structures with low robustness.

This paper is based on analyzing of real collapse cases, scientific articles, and opinions of acknowledged civil engineers.

It might be useful as study material for bridge design course for civil engineering students.