LOAD TESTING PROGRAM
The Bridges and Structures Bureau at the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT)is charged with evaluating and maintaining the Primary Bridge System. Conventional bridge rating processes are typically used for this process, but on occasion the bureau uses diagnostic load-testing procedures for the load rating, including superload permit vehicles. The bridge engineer program at Iowa State University provides the personnel to perform these tests and works directly with the Iowa DOT Rating Engineer. In addition, the load testing program provides support to other bureau research associated with the structural performance of bridges constructed with advanced materials and for determining the effectiveness of strengthened bridges.