Fifth Street Bridge
The 5th Street Bridge plays an important role in the entire Comox Valley transportation network, serving 20,000 vehicles, 650 pedestrians, and 500 cyclists each day. Constructed in 1960, this steel truss frame bridge rests on a reinforced deck supported by steel I-beams and two abutments. The bridge was showing signs of concrete deterioration, and the City wanted to rehabilitate the bridge to extend its serviceable life.
The Problem
The client recognized that the bridge was showing clear signs of concrete deterioration. A condition assessment was performed utilizing several testing methods to determine the extent and severity of the corrosion activity.
These concrete material and corrosion assessments of the superstructure were completed using several non-destructive and material sampling techniques.
All confirmed the superstructure was suffering from chloride-induced corrosion.
Our Solution
The structural engineer specified that an ICCP system be designed to extend the service life of the bridge superstructure by 20 years or more by a qualified and experienced cathodic protection specialist and installed as part of the rehabilitation contract.
Upon completion of the fieldwork and data analysis, two cathodic protection systems were designed by VCS Engineering. An impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) system for the deck which consisted of a titanium-mesh anode embedded in a new concrete overlay reinforced with FRP Rebar. To supplement the ICCP system, Galvashield® CC4 anodes were installed to protect the steel girders that were partially embedded in the bottom of the deck.
A remote monitoring system was also installed that allowed the structure owner to assess the performance of both CP systems in real-time after the completion of the project.
The Result
With this solution, the city was able to extend the service life of the superstructure and, with the system monitoring, have peace of mind that they will be keeping this structure in service for the City of Courtenay for 20+ years.
Technology Used
These innovative products and technologies were used on this project.