Parametric Study of Temperature Effects on Traffic-Induced Response for Bridge Structural Health Monitoring

Bridge response to varying distributed temperatures is unique. Temperature is causing major deformations in bridges that are larger than or equal to the peak-to-peak traffic loads. The correct characterization of the bridge thermal response is important to assess its performance and detect an onset of damage. The aim of this research is to characterize bridge thermal and traffic-induced responses such as vertical displacements to assess bridge conditions (e.g., damage detection). In this study, the numerical replicas (in form of a finite element model) of the UT Campus bridge, which is a steel girder bridge, are generated. Firstly, various temperature distribution scenarios such as those resulting from extreme weather conditions due to climate change are modelled. Then nominal traffic load scenarios are included, and bridge response is characterized. Finally, the damage is modelled as a reduction of material stiffness due to corrosion. The relationship between distributed temperature loads and bridge response could help with interpreting changes in it along the length of the structure, factoring in nominal traffic loads and damage. This study emphasizes the importance of accounting for distributed temperature loads in bridge response, which is important for bridge engineers to consider both in bridge design and condition assessment.