System Reliability Models for Bridges *

There is a need for efficient bridge evaluation procedures. A considerable number of existing bridges in the United States require repair and/or replacement. Accurate estimate of the current strength and the remaining life time is essential for optimum distribution of the available limited resources. The major parameters which determine the structural performance are random variables. Statistical models of load and resistance can be derived from the test data, observations and analysis. For bridge members the reliability can be calculated using this available data. However, there is a considerable discrepancy between the reliability level of individual members and the overall bridge reliability. Due to load sharing and redundancies, the actual load-carrying capacity often exceeds the theoretical value. System reliability methods allow us to reveal an actual safety reserve in the structure. This paper summarizes the practical bridge reliability models. Using a special sampling technique, the reliability is evaluated for typical girder bridges.