University Transportation Center (UTC) partners from Columbia University have worked to develop a methodology for estimating the remaining strength of suspension bridge cables exposed to fire through a number of potential variables. This work was done as part of the UTC project, “Simulation of Degradation and Failure of Suspension Bridge Main Cables due to Natural and Anthropogenic Hazards,” that aimed to provide actionable guidance and engineering tools to support the structural engineering community.

In this free webinar, Principal Investigators will discuss their work to date studying the reduction of suspension bridge cable strength over time due to exposure to fire. This includes, discussing early findings and results following high-fidelity forensic investigations of structures subjected to fire events, quantifying more accurately the hazards associated with traffic patterns and general access to cables, early recommendations for future designs, case studies of fire events on bridges, next steps needed in the research, and more.

Key Takeaways Include:

• Better understanding the impact of fire events on strength of suspension bridge cables.
• Analyzing case studies and hazards associated with traffic patterns and cable access.
• Highlighting next steps needed in the research.