Dynamic testing and analysis of an existing modular expansion joint

The existing modular expansion joints of the Martinus Nijhoff Bridge in the Netherlands are subjected to heavy traffic leading to a short remaining service life and will be replaced in 2012. From July 2010 on, continuous measurements have been carried out as a monotoring system.

In order to refine the alert criteria, in September 2010 the dynamic behaviour of the modular joints of the Martinus Nijhoff bridge has been measured. A two axle lorry travelled over the expansion joint with various velocities in order to simulate static and dynamic behaviour.

The overrolling tests provide data for calibration of the measurements of the monitoring system sensors, an insight into the dynamic behaviour of older modular expansion joints and the suitability of the methods of dynamic analysis as proposed in ETAG 032 “Expansion joints for road bridges”, part 8 Modular joints”.