Heated Bridge Technology

7,91

MB

54

stron

6341

ID

U.S. Department of Transportation

1999

rok

Abstract

Heating technologies for prevention of snow and ice accumulation were incorporated in ten bridge

decks located in five states, Nebraska, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia, to enhance

motorist safety and reduce traffic disruptions. Three different technologies were used to convey

heat to the bridge surface: hydronic (heated fluid pumped through pipe or tubing in the pavement

close to the surface), heat pipe (passive transfer of heat by vaporization and condensation of a

working fluid contained in sealed pipes), and electric (heat generated by electric resistance cables

buried in the pavement near the surface). The report gives construction details, cost data, operating

characteristics, and experiences during winter operations. At the time this report was prepared,

insufficient operating time had accumulated to judge the cost effectiveness of all the installations,

but positive control of snow and ice had been demonstrated.