A bridge deck, often referred to as the road bed, serves a very important purpose for bridges. As one structural element of a bridge, it is the part where pedestrians and vehicles pass through. A deck bridge can be made of concrete, steel, wood, or open grating. It can be an integral part of a bridge’s structure or be supported with steel girders and I-beams. They are integral parts of the structure and functionality of any bridge, they require inspection to maintain their safety and usability. A bridge that is not well kept can lead to disaster. Here are some non-destructive ways that a bridge deck can be inspected.
High Speed Bridge Deck Surveys
A nondestructive method of bridge deck inspection can include state-of-the-art IRIS ground penetrating radar. GPR is both non-contacting and is not intrusive and allows the determination of the condition of asphalt covered and even exposed concrete bridge decks. GPR deck surveys can be done at any time during the year, as weather does not affect the accuracy of the readings.
More About GPR Bridge Deck Surveys
These surveys are often conducted at highway speeds and utilize more than one non-contacting antennas. They use linear antenna scans which are processed and combined to produce a plan view mapping of the bridge deck. These show the exact size and shape of the delamination and deteriorated area. Topographical profile mapping of rebar depth and asphalt thickness is also done. These results are provided in a useable graphic output format which is easy to interpret and understand.
What Can GPR Bridge Deck Surveys Do For You?
These tests can detect delaminations, concrete which has deteriorated in ways which may not be visible to the naked eye, measure the depth of reinforcement, measure the thickness of overlays, and can detect debonded overlays. All of this helps to spot problems before they become large and dangerous disasters.
Choose Concrete Visions for Your Bridge Deck Inspection Needs
Concrete Visions has over 12 years of experience and expertise in concrete scanning and we know how to detect any problems lurking beneath the surface. We use ground penetrating radar accurately and expertly and are familiar in many other methods that can be used when appropriate like concrete x-ray and electromagnetic conductivity. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you, give is a call at (410) 766-2210 or visit us online. For more articles and tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.