Location: Northern Ireland
Abercorn Bridge is an 83-year-old four-span reinforced concrete bridge crossing the River Strule. In recognition of the quality and innovation of the remediation works, the project received the Concrete Society Award for Excellence in Building Processes. McFarland Consulting Ltd were appointed to undertake the structural assessment, design and supervision of the bridge remediation works.
MCL carried out a comprehensive inspection and investigation programme to assess the condition and performance of the bridge structure. The scope included detailed visual inspections, non-destructive testing and material investigations to characterise deterioration mechanisms and establish the condition of the reinforced concrete elements.
The investigation findings informed the development of a finite element analysis (FEA) model of the bridge, which was used to assess structural behaviour and identify critical load effects. To validate the analytical model, MCL designed and undertook a programme of structural load testing, with the results used to calibrate the FEA and confirm structural capacity.
Based on the combined assessment, analysis and testing, MCL produced detailed condition, FEA and load test reports, alongside a comprehensive repair specification and Bill of Quantities. MCL also designed and certified a cathodic protection system to mitigate ongoing reinforcement corrosion and implemented monitoring to verify system performance. The integrated approach provided a robust, evidence-based remediation strategy, extending the service life of the bridge and safeguarding this important piece of infrastructure.