InTrans / Aug 14, 2018
In-place detection of decay in timber bridges – An application of stress wave technology
A study was recently conducted to assess the technical
feasibility of using stress wave nondestructive
evalualion methods to locate decayed members in
timber bridges.
Stress wave nondestructive evaluation techniques were
used to locate decayed components in several timber
bridges in eastern Oregon. Various stress wave
techniques were used to conduct an in-situ evaluation of
stringers, decking, and compression members
Components suspected as having decay were identified
and evaluated in a laboratory after dismantling. Both
visual evaluation of the members and subsequent
laboratory testing indicated that the stress wave
techniques were able to locate decayed components with
a high degree of accuracy.