A Mathematical Algorithm for Predicting the Crack in the Junction of a Steel Truss Bridge Using Acoustic Emission Testing

This paper presents a novel real-time algorithm for crack localization in the intersection of steel truss bridges using acoustic emission testing. It is well known that the welded junction or joint of the bridges is vulnerable to cracks due to long-duration dynamic loading. Here, the pencil lead-break-up (PLB) test is used to generate acoustic emission (AE) signals on the joint positions of the steel truss model and recorded using the R6D sensors. Crack location is determined in real-time using the proposed algorithm and a preset range of values for different AE signal parameters. A new modified equation calculates the distance between the source and the nearest sensor. Several experiments are performed with varying positions of sensors and PLB test locations on the model. It helps to set the range of different parameter values of the acquired AE signal by applying signal processing techniques. The proposed algorithm allows for locating the affected node number in the truss model. It also finds the corresponding shortest crack distance from the sensor. At the same time, a reduction in the number of sensors is also given importance.