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Existing metallic bridges in Egypt: current conditions and problems

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Abstract

Several metallic bridges are present in Egypt and form an important part of the transportation network. Many of these bridges exceeded the intended design life. Currently, deterioration of bridge conditions is pronounced and is leading to many problems. In addition, it is feared that lack of corrective procedures may lead to failure within a few years. Periodic maintenance and major repair activities during a structure service life are mandatory to sustain a satisfactory performance that preserves public safety and extends the service life. The current work is carried out to summarize the most frequent structural problems and defects faced during inspection campaign of a group of metallic bridges in Egypt. Reported problems include but are not limited to corrosion, fatigue cracks, and permanent deformations in structural elements. Data are collected through an extensive investigation of several metallic bridges in Egypt. The study included visual inspection, structural analysis under the action of loads imposed by latest design codes, fatigue assessment of different bridge components, and field tests. Observations include problems or defects related to steel superstructure, pedestrian side walkways, sleepers and rails system, bracing systems, in addition to reinforced concrete substructures. The study is meant to shed light upon the current conditions of vital structures and explore the available practical repair techniques.

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Acknowledgements

The authors wish to express their sincere appreciation to the structural team at EHAF Consulting Office for the technical support. The authors also would like to acknowledge the support provided by the Egyptian National Railways (ENR).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Structural Engineering, Cairo University, Gamaa Street, Orman, P.O. Box 268, Giza, Egypt

    Maha M. Hassan

  2. Department of Structural Engineering, Al Azhar University, 1 Al Mokhaym Al Daem, Gameat Al Azhar, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt

    Sherif A. Elsawaf & Hussein H. Abbas

Authors
  1. Maha M. Hassan
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  2. Sherif A. Elsawaf
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  3. Hussein H. Abbas
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Correspondence to Maha M. Hassan.

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Hassan, M.M., Elsawaf, S.A. & Abbas, H.H. Existing metallic bridges in Egypt: current conditions and problems. J Civil Struct Health Monit 7, 669–687 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13349-017-0251-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13349-017-0251-6

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