Testing of a 55 Year Old Bridge in Canada

This paper presents the experimental investigation and finite element modelling of a slab-on-girder bridge which was constructed in 1939 across the Bécancour River (National Highway Highway No. 132) in the Province of Québec, Canada. The main objectives of the experimental and finite elements studies were: - to examine the strain levels in the structural components of the bridge such as the reinforced concrete deck slab, the longitudinal steel girders and transverse steel beams - to verify the results of the numerical modelling - to study the influence of truckloads and overall safety of the bridge. The experimental testing and the behaviour of this bridge for a two-axle, six wheeled truck load are discussed and the results have been compared with those of the finite element modelling.