Analysis of the evolution of damage in the bridges of Colombia

Abstract

In this document the identification and damage evolution of nearly two thousand bridges in Colombia is shown during three evaluation terms (1996 – 1997, 2001 – 2002 and 2007 – 2008). The main recognition bases were the surveys developed by the National Roads Institute (INVIAS), by including the methodology by Colombian Bridge Management System (SIPUCOL). Special efforts were made to identify damages undergone by bridges main components including typification, qualification, durability levels, stability and service operation; as well as the assessment of implemented maintenance and restoration tasks, which were used for the analyses and comparisons per period. The identification of bridges was concluded, sorting the bridge conditions, from bridges in good conditions to those with major damage and risk of collapse. Preventive and corrective actions are also described, as well as the contribution to diagnoses processes and procedures for additional inspections. On the other hand, the mere implementation of the Bridge Management System in the whole country is a positive know-how achievement we wish to share as a reference for further diagnosis of bridges conditions in Latin America regarding conservation and restoration issues.