CRC Press Inspection, Evaluation and Maintenance of Suspension Bridges

Guidance on Protecting and Extending the Life of Suspension Bridges Suspension bridges are graceful, aesthetic, and iconic structures. Due to their attractiveness and visibility, they are well-known symbols of major cities and countries in the world. They are also an essential form of transportation infrastructure built across large bodies of water. Despite being expensive to build, they are economical structures for the lengths they span. They have evolved significantly from the basic concept dating back to 200 BC China through the first design for a bridge resembling a modern suspension bridge, attributed to Fausto Veranzio in 1595, to present-day span lengths close to two kilometers. Many of these bridges carry significant traffic and their upkeep is very important to maintain transportation mobility. They offer grace and functionality, yet are extremely complex to construct and maintain. Bridge owners spend a considerable amount of time and resources to ensure uninterrupted service, safety, and security for users. Inspection, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation have evolved significantly. Modern materials and innovative design and construction practices have been integrated into these bridges to maintain durability and extended service life. Captures the Experience of More Than 20 Suspension Bridge Operators Inspection, Evaluation and Maintenance of Suspension Bridges is written by the bridge owners and practitioners who strive to cost-effectively manage these bridges. It is invaluable to everyone interested not only in suspension bridges but in the upkeep of any bridges―students, designers, maintenance personnel, contractors, and owners. Describes the evolution and trends in the operation and maintenance of cable supported bridges Contains the latest methods for evaluating cable supported bridge capacities and du Review "I would find this a very useful reference in re-visiting the possible modes and considerations in the original choice of suspension bridge construction when considering any significant maintenance on a structure."―Peter G. Hill, General Manager and Bridgemaster, Humber Bridge Board, UK   "The title says it all. For anyone with a passion or even just an interest in managing and caring for these icons of bridge engineering, this book is essential reading." ― Richard Fish in Bridge Design and Engineering   "Truly a unique contribution and is a must-read for bridge engineers and owners involved in any aspect of suspension bridges." ― Anil K. Agrawal and Barney T. Martin in J. Bridge Eng "The book's 12 chapters provide an overview of topics such as design and construction, inspection, anchorage enhancements, security risk management, cable dehumidification systems, and the evaluation and corrosion of the main cables. There are also sections on monitoring systems, rehabilitation using supplementary cables, and the maintenance of cable band bolts, cables, suspender ropes, and anchorages. Because most suspension bridge owners and operators are involved with only one or two of these structures, it is difficult for them to acquire experience to detect deterioration, develop mitigation techniques, or implement appropriate restoration in a timely, cost-effective manner. Therefore, this work would be useful to anyone involved with designing, owning, maintaining, or rehabilitating suspension bridges. Summing up: Recommended. Researchers/faculty and professionals/practitioners."―H. I. Epstein, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA, for CHOICE, March 2016 About the Author Dr. Sreenivas Alampalli, P.E., MBA, is director of the Structures Evaluation Services Bureau at the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). His responsibilities include managing structural inspection, inventory, and safety assurance programs. His interests include infrastructure management, innovative materials for infrastructure applications, nondestructive testing, structura