Predicting Deterioration of Navigation Steel Hydraulic Structures with Markov Chain and Latin Hypercube Simulation
Abstract
PURPOSE: The deterioration of elements of steel hydraulic structures (SHS) on our nations lock system is caused by combined effects of several complex phenomena: corrosion, cracking and fatigue, impact, and overloads. This Coastal and Hydraulics Engineering Technical Note presents examples of deterioration and a method for predicting future deterioration based on current conditions. In a companion Technical Note (Riveros and Arredondo 2010), the procedure for generating the deterioration rate curves are presented and explained with practical examples. BACKGROUND: In the absence of a mechanistic-based deterioration model that requires quantitative contribution of these complex phenomena based on environmental effects and maintenance constraints, SHS inspection data can be used to determine the need for rehabilitation or replacement and prioritize the order of work and funding. This can be accomplished by the use of deterioration models. Information on current and future conditions of navigation or flood-control SHS is essential for maintenance and rehabilitation of our navigation infrastructure. Current conditions of our navigation infrastructure are measured by periodic and detailed inspections following recommendations from Engineer Regulation (ER) 1110-2-100, Periodic Inspection and Continuing Evaluation of Completed Civil Works Structures Responsibility for Hydraulic Steel Structures, Inspection, Evaluation, and Repair of Hydraulic Steel Structures (HQUSACE 2001). The accuracy of these conditions depends on the type of inspection performed. On occasions, detailed inspections are conducted when a problem is perceived by the operators. In some cases the deterioration of the SHS has been found to be critical and emergency repairs and contingencies have been conducted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA528306
Entities
People
- Elias. Arredondo
- Guilliermo A. Riveros
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center