Análisis de patologías en la plataforma de rieles del proyecto tranvía cuatro ríos de Cuenca

Abstract

The significant number of pathologies found at the "Tranvia de Cuenca" project, located in Mexico Avenue; represent a big concern for future performance of this infrastructure. Infrastructure evaluation was performed by the use of non-destructive testing, this information was used for structural modeling to understand the behavior of the analyzed infrastructure under the predicted loads. The results show that it was possible to determine the origin of the pathologies, and therefore the possibility of drawing the correct alternatives to solve the problems. The performed forensic tests and modeling were among others: cracking analysis, ultrasound monitoring, rebound hammer testing, carbonation depth tests, and infrastructure modeling using ANSYS software. The conclusions show that most of the cracks were originated by the lack of reinforced steel into the platform layers, along with concrete contraction and retraction due to temperature differentials and bad or no curing. Furthermore, the concrete analyzed on the platform presents properties and physical changes because of constructive flows like: insufficient vibration, inadequate curing, or added water (with no control) during construction to facilitate workability; potentials of active corrosion is also a problem, due to carbonation penetration at critical location (around 70% of the coating). . Recommendations focuses on sealing active cracks with non-rigid sealant i.e. polyurethane) and the passive cracks with epoxy resin injection, or micro cement. Finally, it is recommended as well to recover the structure’s monolithism on the slabs, in order to have a better stress distribution.