Load capacity of damaged RC slab spans of railway-bridges

European railway bridges are relatively old and degradation processes cause defects diminishing their load capacity. This paper presents computer-based DAGA system supporting the load capacity assessment of damaged railway slab spans made of reinforced concrete (RC). Construction of the analysed bridge spans and types of considered defects (mainly material losses and strength reduction) are based on a study of the railway infrastructure in Poland and Portugal as well as on results of the international research projects focused on railway bridges. Presented system is equipped with an advanced graphical editor which enables precise and fast creation of a three-dimensional model of the damaged bridge span and offers graphical presentation of the results of the load capacity analysis. Effective algorithm of static and strength analysis allows simultaneous modelling of various defects with non-limited intensity, extent and location.

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