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Bridge inspection and rehabilitation a practical guide
Structural Safety, 12 (1993) 161
161
Elsevier
Book review Bridge Inspection and Rehabilitation a Practical Guide, by Parsons Brinkerhoff, edited by Louis G. Silana, PE, Wiley, New York, 1993, 288 pages In view of the large number of bridges all over the world in need of structural assessment and repair, this is a timely book. The problems of maintenance and refurbishment of the nation's stock of bridges are as difficult to resolve in the UK as anywhere else. Bridge engineers are rapidly trying to develop, and learn to apply, new techniques of inspection, assessment and repair. Consequently, it is gratifying to discover a substantial volume (288 A4 pages) dedicated to all aspects of this task. The book is by the distinguished firm of American structural engineers, Parsons Brinkerhoff, and comprises 14 chapters written by noted experts in every department of bridge inspection and repair. The contents of the chapters include modern techniques for bridge inspection; strength assessment and repair techniques for concrete, steel and suspended bridges; the specialist problems concerned with bearings, joints and decks; seismic retrofitting; and traffic and environmental management during reconstruction. The best features of the book are the extensive coverage of up-to-date techniques employed in the business and the careful explanation of the physical behaviour of many different types of bridge structure which are associated with progressive damage. The chapter on bridge inspection will be read avidly by engineers engaged in this industry, but unfortunately is rather brief. However, there are extensive references. The chapter on repair of concrete structures is detailed with many helpful illustrations. Probably the best chapters deal with steel structures and suspension bridges where there is plentiful information on strength fracture and fatigue assessment, together with techniques for inspecting corroded components such as suspension cables. The chapter on movable bridges concentrates specifically on typical problems occurring in the machinery and operating systems. This information would be difficult to find elsewhere. The sections on deck refurbishment, deck joints and bearings are relatively comprehensive and come with plentiful references. The final chapters on seismic retrofitting, traffic management and environmental controls are very brief and appear to be included for the sake of completeness. Although the book is an excellent and comprehensive reference on the state of the art in bridge inspection and rehabilitation, it lacks emphasis on basic principles and therefore risks being overtaken by changes in techniques and knowledge in the industry. It also suffers slightly from being written by so many people with resulting repetition and lack of cohesion. However, these are minor criticisms of what is overall a very good book, much needed at the present time and written by some of the best brains in the industry. Dr. J.W. Smith Bristol, UK
161
Elsevier
Book review Bridge Inspection and Rehabilitation a Practical Guide, by Parsons Brinkerhoff, edited by Louis G. Silana, PE, Wiley, New York, 1993, 288 pages In view of the large number of bridges all over the world in need of structural assessment and repair, this is a timely book. The problems of maintenance and refurbishment of the nation's stock of bridges are as difficult to resolve in the UK as anywhere else. Bridge engineers are rapidly trying to develop, and learn to apply, new techniques of inspection, assessment and repair. Consequently, it is gratifying to discover a substantial volume (288 A4 pages) dedicated to all aspects of this task. The book is by the distinguished firm of American structural engineers, Parsons Brinkerhoff, and comprises 14 chapters written by noted experts in every department of bridge inspection and repair. The contents of the chapters include modern techniques for bridge inspection; strength assessment and repair techniques for concrete, steel and suspended bridges; the specialist problems concerned with bearings, joints and decks; seismic retrofitting; and traffic and environmental management during reconstruction. The best features of the book are the extensive coverage of up-to-date techniques employed in the business and the careful explanation of the physical behaviour of many different types of bridge structure which are associated with progressive damage. The chapter on bridge inspection will be read avidly by engineers engaged in this industry, but unfortunately is rather brief. However, there are extensive references. The chapter on repair of concrete structures is detailed with many helpful illustrations. Probably the best chapters deal with steel structures and suspension bridges where there is plentiful information on strength fracture and fatigue assessment, together with techniques for inspecting corroded components such as suspension cables. The chapter on movable bridges concentrates specifically on typical problems occurring in the machinery and operating systems. This information would be difficult to find elsewhere. The sections on deck refurbishment, deck joints and bearings are relatively comprehensive and come with plentiful references. The final chapters on seismic retrofitting, traffic management and environmental controls are very brief and appear to be included for the sake of completeness. Although the book is an excellent and comprehensive reference on the state of the art in bridge inspection and rehabilitation, it lacks emphasis on basic principles and therefore risks being overtaken by changes in techniques and knowledge in the industry. It also suffers slightly from being written by so many people with resulting repetition and lack of cohesion. However, these are minor criticisms of what is overall a very good book, much needed at the present time and written by some of the best brains in the industry. Dr. J.W. Smith Bristol, UK