Evaluation of Safety and Operational Efficiency using Structural Health Monitoring Method

Abstract The challenges posed by uncertainty in design and use and the absence of traffic laws and regulations. The researchers conducted an assessment of operational efficiency using the structural health monitoring system. The Samawahh North Bridge, located in the city of Samawahh in southern Iraq, was chosen as a case study to evaluate its construction performance and its compliance with the approved requirements and specifications for structural safety and service validity. Service and safety assessment was carried out through practical tests and numerical simulations using CSI Bridge V.24 software. Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT) displacement sensors were installed and connected to the data acquisition device, followed by a static load test performed on the bridge. When extracting the displacement and distribution coefficient (DF) values, it was found that all these indicators were approximately 80 and 90% lower than the AASHTO specifications approved steel span and concrete span respectively, and no anomalies were detected. This study contributes to promoting economic growth and ensuring increased safety. The methodology included static load tests and frequent updating of the modified finite element model based on experimental data. Therefore, it is recommended to continue to use and rely on the updated FEM in subsequent bridge analyses to effectively evaluate performance and ensure structural integrity.