Load Testing of Existing Concrete Structures (Part 1)-Cyclic and Monotonic Load Tests for Strength Evaluation of Prestressed Concrete Beams (Recorded Presentation)

Cyclic and Monotonic Load Tests for Strength Evaluation of Prestressed Concrete Beams (Recorded Presentation)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Mohamed El-Battanouni's presentation focused on strength evaluation of prestressed concrete girders through cyclic and monotonic load tests, with references to ACI 318 and ACI 437.2 codes. Load tests help assess structural integrity after construction deficiencies, extreme events, repairs, or when proposing new systems. Structural load tests involve applying prescribed loads and measuring responses. Monotonic tests measure deflection over 48 hours, while cyclic tests involve multiple load cycles requiring hydraulic systems. Differences in acceptance criteria are noted between the two ACI codes, particularly in measuring deflections and handling dead loads. El-Battanouni illustrated results from his laboratory work at the University of South Carolina, testing pre-stressed T-beams under both monotonic and cyclic conditions. The study emphasized deviations in evaluation standards, with ACI 437's cyclic test proving more sensitive to detecting damages compared to ACI 318's monotonic test. The presentation concluded by highlighting that neither test measures ultimate capacity, only performance or proof loading.

Keywords

prestressed concrete girders

cyclic load tests

monotonic load tests

ACI 318

ACI 437.2

structural integrity