Bridge Workshop - New Methodology for Classification of Fracture Critical Members

Description

New Methodology for Classification of Fracture Critical Members

This presentation covers new research, specifications, policy, and engineering application for determining Fracture Critical Members, System Redundant Members, and Internally Redundant Members for design of new bridges, and evaluation of existing bridges. The presentation begins with explanation of the purpose and meaning of Fracture Critical Member classification. Discussion is provided to highlight the challenges with FCM inspection and cost burden to owners. Several case studies are given to show real world scenarios of fractures and the results.  FCM classification is dependent on the redundancy provided by the design, which can be determined through analysis. The FHWA issued a policy memo in 2012 that encouraged owners to conduct analysis of their inventory of bridges with FCMs, and update any classifications if applicable. This can provide substantial savings to owners who may be doing unnecessary FCM inspections. There are also pending changes to the National Bridge Inspection Standards, which will add SRM and IRM, and remove FCM from the regulations. This will have significant impact on design and evaluation of steel bridges. 




Speaker: 

Brian Kozy, PE, National Practice Lead - Bridge, Michael Baker International

Dr. Brian Kozy is Senior Vice President and National Practice Leader for Bridges at Michael Baker and has 25 years of diverse industry experience. Dr. Kozy brings technical expertise, practical sense, and leadership skills to solve problems, serve clients, and support sound decision making. In his previous position with Federal Highway Administration, Dr. Kozy developed federal engineering policy and guidance, and actively supported TRB, AASHTO, and industry-led committees. He contributes to advancement in the body of knowledge in civil infrastructure topics such as steel and concrete bridges, load rating, seismic, security, and tunnels. Dr. Kozy has significant experience and expertise on topics such as fatigue and fracture, stability, reliability, NDE, evaluation, and risk/resilience/security that is necessary to support comprehensive design and asset management of critical bridge infrastructure.