4. Recalculation of a bridge in pathological condition

4.1 Empty" condition assessment

It is the calculation of the structure "without load" that enables us to establish and validate the model that will be used, on the one hand, to interpret the disorders observed and, on the other hand, to draw up the repair project.

• Evaluating the condition of a structure "without load" consists in assessing its state of stress under a "quasi-permanent" combination, i.e. including :

  • permanent loads, but with their average (or probable) value, measured if possible;

  • any prestressing force, also with an average value, estimated taking into account what was said in paragraph