Speaking

Recognizing the potential deficiencies for post-tensioned (PT) conditions, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 8 retained Burgess & Niple (B&N) to inspect, perform non-destructive testing (NDT), generate rehabilitation plans, and provide technical expertise during the construction phase for four PT bridges. 

The project started with in-depth inspections and was followed by an extensive search and review of past contract documents. Next, a post-tensioned inspection plan was created and served as the scope for the project’s second phase, which included: 

• Risk-based protocols for NDT
• Tendon duct grout sampling 
• Borescope testing 
• The number of NDT tests, testing protocols and repair procedures 
• Long-term inspection and maintenance procedures
• Scope for repairs 

The project’s third phase included the generation of repair plans for the four structures based on the findings of the first two phases. In the final phase B&N provided technical expertise as part of the ODOT construction inspection team for the PT repairs and the injection of Post-Tech PTI impregnation resin into the tendons of four pier caps. B&N and ODOT District 8 presenters will provide an overview of the project, the inspection and testing methods used, and a discussion about the results. 

Additional projects involving inspection of testing of other post-tensioned bridge and cable-stay bridges may also be covered, including two post-tensioned structures owned by the City of Cincinnati Department of Transportation and Engineering (CDOTE) and two cable-stay bridges over the Ohio River owned by Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).