Innovative strengthening technique using prestressed fibre wraps for bridge headstocks

Abstract

On most short span bridges, headstocks are used to connect the bridge superstructure with the substructure. Deterioration of existing headstocks due to increased traffic loading and structural aging has become evident in many bridges in Australia and worldwide. The number of heavy trucks and traffic volume on these bridges have increased and exceeded the values used at the time of their design. Structural upgrades of headstocks usually require the existing headstock to be strengthened, both in shear and flexure, and the magnitude of increase is normally in the order of 100% of the original capacity. As such, there is an urgent need for strengthening bridge elements such as headstocks using appropriate strengthening technologies.