Proof Load Testing Method by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials and Suggestions for Improvement

Because of the aging infrastructure, methods are explored by which reliability existing bridges and viaducts can be assessed. In cases in limited information structure is available or its condition concern, proof load testing may used to demonstrate sufficient live carrying capacity. Proof tests U.S.A. typically performed using Manual for Bridge Evaluation (MBE) published American Association State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO). The expressed regular model magnified target factor. level obtained factor not explicitly stated MBE, but particular interest. this article, relevant background documents investigated uncover underlying calculations, assumptions, input data. Current challenges described considerations time dependence, stop criteria, information, system-level assessment highlighted. Subsequently, improvements MBE suggested. An example calculation traffic data from Netherlands shows that HL93 Eurocode LM1 provide a reasonably constant with span length bending shear. However, HS20 does scale well increasing length. It found magnitude as specified through directly related desired reliability. Although method practical, several remain.