Test Loading of Structures with a Suspect Resistance

Abstract

The reliability of load-bearing structures is normally secured through codes, a competent structural design and proper execution inspection. Alternatively, the reliability can be obtained via skilled test loading, which is a feasible technique both in the construction of new structures and in the load-bearing verification of existing ones. Although the current codes lack instructions for test loading, they are, however, used in special cases; for example, when the reliability of the structures is doubtful due to a defect, or when the structure is suspected to have especially high resistance variability. Test loading involves significant research questions that need to be addressed, including: What is the test load in comparison with the expected maximum service time load or the characteristic load? How can the instantaneous test load be compared with the actual long-term service-time load? Does the test loading harm the structure, and what is the target reliability in the test loading calculation? In this paper, we approach these questions from a theoretical point of view and propose how a suitable test load can be chosen in practice using an approximate and a precise approach.

Combination of Permanent and Variable Load Is Dependent

“…The authors implemented dependent and independent load combination for test loading. The DLC results in simpler calculation with more sable results [18].…”