Required proof load magnitude for probabilistic field assessment of viaduct De Beek

Proof load testing is part of the engineering practice, and can be particularly useful for the rating of existing bridges. This paper addresses how reliability-based concepts can be used in combination with proof load testing, and discusses how this approach differs from the current practice for proof load testing. Whereas the calculation...

Development of recommendations for proof load testing of reinforced concrete slab bridges

As the bridge stock in the Netherlands and Europe is ageing, various methods to analyze existing bridges are being studied. Proof load testing of bridges is an option to experimentally demonstrate that a given bridge can carry the prescribed live loads. Based on extensive research on proof load testing of reinforced concrete slab bridges carried...

Probabilistic prediction of the failure mode of the Ruytenschildt Bridge

In the Netherlands, the shear capacity of a large number of existing reinforced concrete solid slab bridges is subject to discussion, as initial assessments indicated that their capacity was insufficient. In certain cases, the deterministic value of the moment capacity is larger than the deterministic value of the shear capacity. However, when...

Shear capacity of the Ruytenschildt bridge

In August 2014, the Ruytenschildt Bridge, a reinforced concrete solid slab bridge (reinforced with plain bars) in the Friesland province in the Netherlands was tested until failure. One of the goals of proof loading and testing this bridge to failure, was to study the failure mode of existing slab bridges. The combination of smaller shear...

Collapse test and moment capacity of the Ruytenschildt reinforced concrete slab bridge

A large number of existing reinforced concrete solid slab bridges in the Netherlands are found to be insufficient for shear upon assessment. However, research has shown additional sources of capacity in slab bridges, increasing their total capacity and possibly changing their failure mode. Previous testing was limited to half-scale slab...

Ruytenschildt Bridge: Field and laboratory testing

A large number of existing reinforced concrete solid slab bridges in the Netherlands are found to be insufficient for shear upon assessment. However, research has shown additional sources of capacity in slab bridges, increasing their total capacity. Previous testing was limited to half-scale slab specimens cast in the laboratory. To study the...

Responsiveness of residential electricity demand to dynamic tariffs: Experiences from a large field test in the Netherlands

To efficiently facilitate the energy transition it is essential to evaluate the potential of demand response in practice. Based on the results of a Dutch smart grid pilot, this paper assesses the potential of both manual and semi-automated demand response in residential areas. To stimulate demand response, a dynamic tariff and smart appliances...

Spatial Variability of Subsurface Soil Conditions Causing Roadway Settlements

Settlement of problematic soils constituting the roadway subgrade may result in pavement distress and structural failure, requiring periodic pavement patching and resurfacing. Many of these problems occur as a result of the settlement of soft cohesive and organic soils. Due to the extent of roadway projects and the limited frequency of boring...

Comparing a driving simulator to the real road regarding distracted driving speed

Relative and absolute validity of a driving simulator were assessed regarding effects on mean speed and speed variation during distracting secondary tasks, and normal driving. 16 participants drove the same route four times, twice in a simulator and twice in the real world. They performed way finding tasks, using either a paper map or a route...

Field tests for operational shear strength assessment in peat at Uitdam, The Netherlands

Stability assessment of existing dikes build on soft soil generates questions on the available stability calculation techniques and material models. Especially peat behaviour is not easily captured by standard design methods. This has led to disapproval, based on calculations, of dikes that have been in operation for several hundreds of years....

Low Adhesion in the Wheel-Rail Contact

Adhesion, or adhesion coefficient, is given by the ratio of the longitudinal tangential (i.e., braking or traction) force over the normal force at the wheel-rail contact. The tangential force that a braking or tractive railway wheel can exert on a rail is limited by the friction coefficient available between the surfaces in contact for a given...

Delft Cluster Railway transition zones & Switches: Factual report short-term measurement 2009

For the Delft Cluster 'Railway transition zones and switches' project, extensive measurements are made. The measurements are divided into three types. The short-term measurement of may 2009 is the subject of this report. The long-term and soil investigation measurements are described in other reports. The goal of this report is to make sure that...

Monitoring and management of environmental pollution based on macroparameters measured with sensors (Macrosense)

The reliability of global estimation of dynamic properties