Topic outline

  • Steel Bridge Design - Load Ratings

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course on load ratings in the FHWA Steel Bridges Handbook is focused on providing guidance on load rating evaluation procedures for steel bridges. Load rating is the process of determining the safe weight limit for a bridge based on its current condition and the loads it is expected to carry.

    This course covers load rating fundamentals, including the definitions of key terms and concepts used in load rating. It also describes load rating equations and factors, including the different types of loads that a bridge can be subjected to, such as dead loads, live loads, and environmental loads. The load rating procedures section describes the different steps involved in the load rating process, including the selection of appropriate load rating methods and the identification of critical elements and limit states.

    Also included is a section on load testing, which can be used to verify the accuracy of load rating results, plus a load rating examples section providing practical examples of load rating evaluations for different types of steel bridges, such as through truss bridges, deck truss bridges, and arch bridges. The load rating documentation section covers the necessary documentation requirements for load rating evaluations, including the use of load rating software and the preparation of load rating reports. This course concludes with a section on load posting, which is the process of communicating the load rating results to bridge users through signage or other means. Load posting ensures that the weight limit for a bridge is communicated clearly to drivers and helps prevent overloading of the bridge.

    Topics:

    • Load Rating Fundamentals
    • Load Rating Definitions
    • Load Rating Equations
    • Load Rating Factors
    • Load Rating Procedures
    • Load Testing
    • Load Rating Examples
    • Load Rating Documentation
    • Load Posting

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course:
    Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: primarily for transportation, structural, civil, construction, and hydraulic engineers.
    Publication Source: US FHWA

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1