Application and reliability of a fiber optical surveillance system for a stay cable bridge

Abstract

In this paper we report on the application of a fiber optical system for the surveillance of a new stay cable bridge. The novelty of the bridge is the use of cables made of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer wires. This new concept in bridge construction requires monitoring of the cables to ensure their reliability. The results of an observation period of more than six months during the construction are presented. Tests of the reliability of the fiber optical monitoring system are discussed.