Fast Falling Weight Deflectometer Method for Condition Assessment of RC Bridges

In this paper, the use of Fast Falling Weight Deflectometer (Fast-FWD) is analyzed as a non-destructive and quick test procedure to evaluate efficiency short-span bridges. The Fast-FWD an instrument that can produce broadband dynamic force up impact value 120 KN: constant replicable, providing accurate action measures bridge stiffness in truly short period (30 ms). single-span reinforced concrete investigated, using Fast-FWD. considered bridge, approximately 12.0 m long 15.5 wide, was critical condition. suburban principal road near City Cagliari Sardinia (Italy), with Annual Average Daily Traffic 13,500 vehicles/day, suddenly closed, creating serious problems for urban mobility. these conditions, investigation through other standard techniques time-consuming labor intensive. For reason, it important introduce methods be rapid, cost-efficient. values obtained during situ experimental campaign were compared finite element models values. has potential provide engineering information help us better understand condition, rapid cost-effective procedure.