Integrated Static–dynamic Assessment and Field-validated External Prestressing Strengthening of an Aging Steel Railway Bridge

Sumargo Sumargo; Mardiana Oesman; Fachmi Fadli

doi:10.2478/cee-2026-0111

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Integrated Static–dynamic Assessment and Field-validated External Prestressing Strengthening of an Aging Steel Railway Bridge

Civil and Environmental Engineering

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By: Sumargo Sumargo, Mardiana Oesman and Fachmi Fadli

Open Access

|May 2026

Abstract

The BH 25 steel truss railway bridge in Garut, Indonesia, exhibited a deviation from its intended camber during construction, raising concerns regarding its structural performance. This study presents an integrated assessment combining full-scale static and dynamic load testing with calibrated finite element modelling. A 90-ton CC206 locomotive was used to evaluate deflection and dynamic response. While the bridge satisfies serviceability requirements, a reduction in global stiffness is identified from its vibration characteristics. To mitigate this issue, an external prestressing system was implemented as a strengthening measure. The results confirm that the proposed intervention effectively restores camber and enhances dynamic performance. The study highlights the value of integrating field measurements with validated numerical modelling within a unified framework for both assessment and strengthening evaluation. This approach provides a practical basis for performance-based rehabilitation of steel railway bridges under operational conditions.

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Articles in this issue

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/cee-2026-0111 | Journal eISSN: 2199-6512 | Journal ISSN: 1336-5835

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Language: English

Submitted on: Mar 4, 2026

Accepted on: Mar 31, 2026

Published on: May 22, 2026

Published by: University of Žilina

In partnership with: Paradigm Publishing Services

Publication frequency: 4 issues per year

Keywords:

Static load testing,

Dynamic testing,

Steel truss railway bridge,

External prestressing,

Structural strengthening

Related subjects:

Business and economics,

Political economics,

Economic theory, systems and structures,

Business management,

Industries,

Environmental management

© 2026 Sumargo Sumargo, Mardiana Oesman, Fachmi Fadli, published by University of Žilina
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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