The Government of the Northwest Territories retained Associated Engineering to evaluate the existing condition, load rate, and prepare life-cycle cost estimates for retrofit and replacement options for the Frank Channel and Kakisa River Bridges. Both bridges are critical elements of the highway network in the Northwest Territories.
Associated Engineering conducted a close proximity inspection of both structures using a specialized inspection truck. Prior to conducting the inspections, a 3-D finite element model was created to evaluate the load rating based on CAN/CAS-S6-00 and identify any members that may be over-stressed or subject to high fatigue cycles. This work was then used to optimize the ultrasonic integrity inspections of the truss members.
We prepared a report that provided a Life Cycle Cost summary of the retrofit and replacement options, including total costs to 2053, salvage value, and expected residual life.