Findings and insights concerning the results of re-analyzed concrete bridges in Germany

In May 2011 the new guideline Nachrechnungsrichtlinie (standard for bridge re-analysis and assessment) was recommended for application in order to implement a harmonized basis for the assessment of existing road bridges. Within the framework of a research project initiated and funded by the Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt) re-analysis results of in total 146 concrete bridges were collected and evaluated. One major goal of this project was to provide a basis for a more efficient re-analysis and an improved documentation of the results. The present paper firstly describes typical calculatory deficits requiring additional considerations upon completion of the so-called re-analysis stage 2. Subsequently, general recommendations for future re-analyses are being provided, advices are given in terms of the handling of deficits and a proposal is made and discussed regarding presentation and documentation of re-analysis results.