Brief Description and the work performed by Resensys
Case definition: Fracture critical member is defined as component in tension whose failure is expected to result in collapse or inability of the structure to perform its function. A bridge/structure can become fracture critical if deterioration over time leads to degradation of materials compared to their original design strengths.
Problems:
- Excessive tension at girders
- Stress corrosion cracking
- Bearing and expansion joints malfunction
- Piers and hangers over-tilting
How to address the problem: Resensys wireless monitoring systems have been deployed in a bunch of bridges in Maryland and based on the monitoring needs of each bridge
- Wireless strain gauge: monitoring responses of the girders to loading and temperature change and detecting new cracks due to corrosion
- Wireless tilt meter: monitoring movement of rocker bearings, piers/abutments inclination
- Wireless crack meter: monitoring width of existing cracks
Results:
- Detecting malfunction of rocker bearing system quickly, then maintenance operation was provided accordingly to repair the bearing
- Monitoring stress/strain at girders and significant structural members constantly to prevent sudden potential failure
- Detecting over-tilting of bridge piers and hangers
- Provide advance warning of potential failure by detecting early signs of structural distress and by collecting steady-state data and alert systems
| OWNER | Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), State Highway Administration (SHA) |
| SERVICE PROVIDED | Fracture critical monitoring of more than 10 bridges in state of Maryland |
| DURATION | 2013-Present |
| SALIENT FEATURES | Remote Monitoring System Monitoring of girders, load bearing members, bearings, expansion joints, pin at hangers, piers, cracks |
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