Load‐carrying capacity of Vierendeel bridges in Mechelen

Abstract From 1930 to 1960, in Belgium, steel railway bridges were regularly designed using the vierendeel system. Three lines cross Mechelen‐Leuven canal town of Mechelen, providing a unique example this type application. Two these bridges, which constructed 1953 renovated 2021–2022, including installation new rail fastening. It was discovered that 1936‐built third and oldest bridge had multiple cracks, mostly vertical members Vierendeel structure. Furthermore, secondary components like longitudinal beams are severely harmed by corrosion. As result, uncertainty grew over bridge's ability support loads. The monuments organization promotes preservation old structures. material properties, as well load‐bearing capacity fatigue strength, evaluated thorough experimental numerical investigation. results examinations suggest significant strength variation may be cause cracking. is more likely cracks developed during construction subsequent repairs than blame. In conclusion, arrangement three too special destroyed replaced, also sufficiently repaired rebuilt for long‐term further use.