摘要: |
This technical summary presents the key findings of a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) study that is fully documented in a separate report of the same title (FHWA-RD-00-026). In October 1995, FHWA initiated a study on "Magnetic-Based System for NDE of Prestressing Steel in Pre-Tensioned and Post-Tensioned Concrete Bridges." The objectives of the study were to design, fabricate, and demonstrate a nondestructive evaluation (NDE) system based on an application of the principle of magnetic flux leakage (MFL) to detect corrosion and fracture of prestressing steel in prestressed and post-tensioned concrete bridge members. The system was to be developed based on a modular concept allowing application to bridge members with differing geometrical configurations. Efficiency of field operation was sought for both the system's overall operation and its installation on and removal from various bridge components. The primary aim of the study was to use and extend the available knowledge and capability obtained through past studies and developments in the related area. The initial focus of the study was a review of the available literature to evaluate the capabilities and shortcomings of past magnetic-based methodology and equipment. Primary emphasis was to be placed on the reliability and field-worthiness of the system to be developed. |