Strengthening of traffic barriers on bridges along the Kaaimans Pass

Author(s): B.P. Durow, G.A. Visser, E.J. Kruger
Paper category: Conference
Book title: Concrete Repair, Rehabilitation and Retrofitting III (ICCRRR)
Editor(s): M.G. Alexander, H.-D. Beushausen, F. Dehn, P. Moyo
Print ISBN: 978-0-415-89952-9
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Group
Pages: 395- 396
Total Pages: 2
Language: English

Abstract: 
During the past decade traffic accidents on bridges along the Kaaimans Pass in the Southern Cape have caused minor damage to the barriers on these bridges. Recently the complete dislodgement of barrier panels on one structure occurred. This prompted SANRAL to commission an investigation of the reasons for the failure and to plan for strengthening of these components, if found necessary. Design checks indicated theoretical compliance with the applicable TMH7 code requirements. However, visual inspection of the failed components gave rise to concern about the adequacy of the grouted connection between the precast barrier panels and the bridge decks. It was therefore decided to prepare a design aimed at strengthening the barriers, by fastening stainless steel plates to the barrier front faces, connected to threaded anchor bars which pass through and are secured at the underside of the decks. Analysis by finite element simulation of impact forces confirmed that the original barrier design barely achieved the code ultimate load requirements, whilst the strengthened design was assessed to have an acceptable ultimate load capacity of 135 kN per barrier panel. SANRAL elected to proceed with the implementation of 1000 m of barrier strengthening on four of the Kaaimans Pass bridges, which is currently in progress and due for completion by December 2012.

Online publication: 2014
Publication Type: abstract_only
Public price (Euros): 0.00