Calibrating partial factors - methodology, input data and case study of steel structures

Partial factors are commonly based on expert judgements and on calibration to previous design formats. This inevitably results in unbalanced structural reliability for different types of construction materials, loads and limit states. Probabilistic calibration makes it possible to account for plentiful requirements on structural performance,...

Using statistical and interval-based approaches to propagate snow measurement uncertainty to structural reliability

Observations are inevitably contaminated with measurement uncertainty, which is a predominant source of uncertainty in some cases. In present practice probabilistic models are typically fitted to measurements without proper consideration of this uncertainty. Hence, this study explores the effect of this simplification on structural reliability...

Assessment of compressive strength of historic masonry using non-destructive and destructive techniques

Masonry structures were built by various techniques using different materials, the properties of which exhibit a considerable scatter dependent on periods of construction and region-specific conditions. For historic structures with a heritage value, various non- or minor-destructive tests (NDTs) are commonly applied, while the application of...

The design value method and adjusted partial factor approach for existing structures

In contrast to the design of new structures, the assessment of existing structures often relies on the subjective judgement of the investigating engineer. An objective verification format for existing structures based on alternative partial factors is however feasible, enabling a rather simple and straightforward, but objective and coherent...

The design value method and adjusted partial factor approach for existing structures

In contrast to the design of new structures, the assessment of existing structures often relies on the subjective judgement of the investigating engineer. An objective verification format for existing structures based on alternative partial factors is however feasible, enabling a rather simple and straightforward, but objective and coherent...