An Introduction to Bridge Substructure and Superstructure Inspection

This publication provides introductory technical guidance for civil engineers and bridge inspectors interested in inspection of bridge substructure and superstructure. Here is what is discussed: 1. INTRODUCTION, 2. ABUTMENTS, 3. RETAINING WALLS 4. PIERS AND BENTS, 5. PILE BENTS, 6. DOLPHINS AND FENDERS, 7. CONCRETE BEAMS AND GIRDERS, 8. STEEL BEAMS AND GIRDERS, 9. PIN AND HANGER CONNECTIONS, 10. FLOOR SYSTEMS, 11. DIAPHRAGMS AND CROSS FRAMES, 12. TRUSSES, 13. LATERAL BRACING PORTALS AND SWAY FRAMES, 14. TIED ARCHES, 15. METAL BEARINGS, 16. ELASTOMERIC BEARINGS, 17. DECKS, 18. EXPANSION JOINTS, 19. RAILINGS, SIDEWALKS, AND CURBS, 20. APPROACHES, 21. BRIDGE DRAINAGE.

Paul Guyer is a registered civil engineer, mechanical engineer, fire protection engineer and architect with 35 years of experience designing buildings and related infrastructure. For an additional 9 years he was a principal staff advisor to the California Legislature on capital outlay and infrastructure issues. He is a graduate of Stanford University and has held numerous national, state and local offices with the American Society of Civil Engineers, Architectural Engineering Institute and National Society of Professional Engineers. He is a Fellow of ASCE and AEI.