Reliability Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Bridge Pier using Inspected Concrete Deterioration

Abstract

In the modern world, technologies are used to assist in bridge construction and maintenance tasks, leading to a more robust and efficient process. Being able to investigate structural damage conditions and accurately predict the likelihood of structural failure will enable engineering practitioners to effectively plan the bridge maintenance to prevent any catastrophic damage that might occur. This study presents a reliability analysis of the bridge’s pier structure, demonstrating a case study of the bridge over the Chanthaburi River, which has been in service for 26 years and is subjected to deterioration under service load over the lifespan. Ultimately, this study aims to analyze the damage of bridge piers by using the 3D Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis, employing ATENA software to simulate the force and the deflection that occurred to determine the Reliability Index of the structure. Consequently, the FEM results will be analyzed further by SARA software to determine the structure's reliability. The results indicate that the reliability index data could be used as a reference in the future to assess the bridge's structural condition and plan for the rehabilitation process in advance.