What is the primary method for determining steel remaining section or section loss?

The primary method for determining steel remaining section or section loss is through physical measurement. This approach involves directly measuring the dimensions of the steel components, such as the depth and width of any corroded areas, to assess how much material remains compared to the original design specifications. By obtaining precise measurements of the affected areas, inspectors can calculate the extent of section loss and make informed decisions regarding the structural integrity and necessary repairs or reinforcements.

While visual inspection can identify signs of deterioration and corrosion, it does not provide detailed quantitative data about the remaining steel section. Non-destructive testing techniques can complement this assessment by detecting hidden flaws or assessing material properties without causing damage, but they may not directly measure section loss in the same straightforward manner as physical measurement. Load testing evaluates how a structure performs under a specified load but is not primarily focused on quantifying material loss. Hence, physical measurement stands out as the most direct and reliable method for quantifying steel section loss in bridges.