Francesca Brighenti

Dr. Francesca Brighenti

University of Trento, Italy
orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

5Years (2022-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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7 September 2024 in Automation in Construction
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
Francesca BrighentiFrancesca Brighenti
Francesca Brighenti
MBMattia Francesco Bado
Mattia Francesco Bado
FRFrancesco Romeo
Francesco Romeo
DZDaniele Zonta
Daniele Zonta

12 January 2022 in Applied Sciences
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Francesca BrighentiFrancesca Brighenti
Francesca Brighenti
LPLuca Possidente
Luca Possidente
DZDaniele Zonta
Daniele Zonta
Most railway masonry arch bridges were designed according to codes that predate the 1950s; therefore, assessing their load-carrying capacity to comply with current codes is of the utmost importance. Nonetheless, acquiring the necessary information to conduct in-depth analyses is expensive and time consuming. In this article, we propose an expeditious procedure to conservatively assess the Load Rating Factor of masonry arch railway bridges based on a minimal set of information: the span, rise-to-span ratio, and design code. This method consists in applying the Static Theorem to determine the most conservative arch geometry compatible with the original design code; assuming this conservative geometrical configuration, the load rating factor, with respect to a different design load, is estimated. Using this algorithm, a parametric analysis was carried out to evaluate the Load Rating Factor of old arch bridges in respect of the modern freight load of the Trans-European Conventional Rail System, for different spans, rise-to-span ratios, and original design codes. The results are reported in easy-to-use charts, and summarized in simple, practical rules, which can help railway operators to rank their bridges based on capacity deficit.