NON DESTRUCTIVE EVALUATION TECHNIQUES

Bridges must be kept in safe operation during their life time with a minimum of costs. The probable contribution of non-destructive testing to this aim is described. An overview of the available non-destructive techniques in Germany is given focusing on the improvements of ultrasound techniques. Case studies show, that the problem of bridge maintenance must be solved by the close co-operation of well trained inspection personnel and specialists for non-destructive testing applying and combining the well proven methods in the proper way.