TM-5-5420-279-10
2.3.3.4
A fatigue monitoring device is fitted to each module to monitor the accumulative
stresses and strains incurred in the module during bridge crossings. The monitor will
fail in two stages. The first failure is an indicator that the parallel module to which it is
attached is within 1000 full load crossings of its design life. Once the monitor has
cracked across its whole length, the module must be taken out of service.
Approach Ramps
2.3.4.1
Ten approach ramps; each 15.5 in (0.394 m) wide and 13 ft 5 in (4.089 m) long are
positioned at each end of the bridge to complete the bridge approach angle. Anti-lift
brackets are incorporated on the ramp connection end to stop lifting of the ramps
during trafficking.
Bridge Markers, Defile Markers and Road Signs
2.3.5.1
To allow vehicular traffic to correctly position itself on the bridge and while
approaching the bridge, bridge edge markers and defile markers are employed.
2.3.5.2
The bridge edge markers are fixed to the central curb on either side of each parallel
module. They are integral with the bridge curbs and are rotated to the vertical once
the curbs have been deployed.
2.3.5.3
Defile markers are placed into the ground on either side of the bridge approach and
exit, they form a tapered lead in onto and off the bridge. Tape is wrapped around and
between each defile marker to clearly define the approach to the bridge.
2.3.5.4
Road signs displaying the weight carrying capacity of the bridge are displayed on
posts driven into the ground at each end of the bridge.
Tag Ropes
2.3.6.1
Tag ropes are used with the DSB system to control crane loads during craning
operations. The tag ropes consist of a steel hook, which can be attached to a bridge
or launch beam module handle and 9 m of rope to allow control of any slung load. A
minimum of two tag ropes should be used with any slung load at a time.