Fibre Reinforced Polymer Bridges - Guidance Launch Event

On 21st November, Composites UK will launch its Bridge Design Guide with CIRIA.

The adoption of FRP composites within the construction sector has historically been limited to lightweight non-structural elements such as sanitary items and cladding. More recently, the use of FRP composites as main structural members has seen a resurgence. Bridges made entirely of FRP composite are now being installed, with asset owners recognising the associated benefits.

Within the UK the projected growth in the use of FRP composites for structural applications in the construction sector suggests high levels of growth with the UK Composites Strategy 2016 (Composite Leadership Forum, 2016) estimating significant growth. In addition to this, there are numerous technological advancements (eg nanotechnology/fibre innovations) that will make FRP composites a much more attractive solution.

At present, there are minimal resources for the bridge engineer to refer to, with no recognised design standards to follow. However, structural Eurocodes are in development and there are a number of guides from materials manufacturers. So, the intention of this guide is to help bridge engineers to understand FRP materials and how they can use them effectively in modern bridge construction.

Within the guide, the history of FRP bridges in the UK is discussed, together with some of the key learning points relating to FRP materials, the manufacturing process and the relevant design criteria. Sustainability is also an area identified, with recommendations made.

Programme

13:30     Registration

14:30     Welcome and introduction – Sue Halliwell, Composites UK

14:40     The need for guidance – sharing knowledge and lessons learned - James Henderson, Atkins Ltd

15:00     Conceptual design – Emersons Green case study - Jon Shave, WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff

15:20     Connection challenges - Toby Mottram, University of Warwick

15:40     Procurement, fabrication and installation - Simon Eves, Pipex

16:00     The future for FRP bridges in the rail sector - Rob Dean, Network Rail

16:15     The future for FRP bridges in the highways sector - Pier Valerio, Highways England

16:30  Case studies – 10 min each

Lifespan Structures – John Drewett
Optima Projects – David Kendall
ECS Engineering Services Ltd – Steve Crapper

Registration

Registration is being taken via the CIRIA website, click here for details.

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Audley House, Northbridge Road,
Berkhamsted,
Hertfordshire
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» Place: London

» Start Date: 21/11/2018

» End Date: 21/11/2018

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