doi:10.3850/978-981-08-9247-0_rp016-icsas11

ABSTRACT

The condition of a bridge is rated based on the Annual Bridge Inspection Manual (ABIM). One of the components included in the rating of Jabatan Kerja Raya (Public Work Department)-Bridge Management System (JKR-BMS) is the girder. Based on visual appearance, Rate I to 5 (with 5 being the worst) is given to the condition of the girder. Based on JKR-BMS (2005, 2006 and 2008 data), the average condition ratings of steel girder bridges constructed in 1950s, 1960s and 1970s were 3, compared to bridges with pre-stressed (PC) and reinforced concrete (RC) beams where their condition maintained at 1 and 2. The data shows that steel deteriorates faster than RC and PC beams. Non-destructive test (NDT) technique is important to quantify the state of deterioration and will also increase the reliability of the results of the condition assessment process for further rehabilitation actions. In this paper, appropriate non-destructive assessments techniques are proposed to be included in the JKR-BMS to assess fatigue cracks and corrosion of steel girders to supplement visual inspection results for cost effective maintenance activities. The techniques are ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, penetrant dye, acoustic emission, coating tolerance thermography, radiographic testing, measurement of section loss and electrochemical techniques.

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