Numerical study on remaining strength prediction of corroded Steel bridge plates

Abstract

Corrosion causes strength deterioration of aged steel infrastructures and hence careful evaluation of their remaining load-carrying capacities are of high importance in maintenance engineering. To develop a more reliable strength estimation technique, only experimental approach is not enough as actual corroded surfaces are different from each other. However in modern practices, numerical simulation is being used to replace the time-consuming and expensive experimental work and to comprehend on the lack of knowledge of mechanical behavior, stress distribution, ultimate behavior and so on. Therefore, using of numerical analysis method will give important knowledge not only for strength estimation but also for subsequent repair and retrofitting plan. The results of non-linear FEM analysis of many actual corroded plates with different corrosion conditions and comparison of them with the respective tensile coupon tests results are presented in this paper. Further, the feasibility of establishing of an analytical methodology to predict the residual strength capacities of a corroded steel member with fewer number of measuring points are also discussed.