Waterloo Bridge – structural behaviour and strength Available to Purchase

Waterloo Bridge, carrying the A301 road across the River Thames in London, was completed in 1942. It comprises twin multi-cell reinforced-concrete box girders of variable depth with connecting transverse slab, supported on caisson foundations. The paper describes the analysis and load assessment using modern techniques of a structure originally designed without the use of computers. The original articulation system incorporated stops to restrict longitudinal movement, and dynamic damping devices. The assessment has taken account of the actual behaviour of the structure determined from movement measurements. The centre suspended span is supported by hinge joints, which comprise steel roller bearings attached to concrete with pre-stressed vertical and diagonal bars. These bearings and their associated supports were subject to detailed analysis to determine their ultimate strength. The assessment has led to a much better understanding of bridge performance and residual life, which will enable the bridge owner to plan future maintenance interventions.