Smart Bridge Quarterly Progress Report #13
Task 4.2.1 - Further Refinements to GLHE DesignTask 4.6.1 - Testing of a Medium-Scale Bridge Deck
Heating System
June 2002 - August 2002
M.D. Smith, Ph.D.,P.E.
Randy Perry & Fred Schroeder
Task 4.2.1
• Flat Plate Heat Exchanger System– Pond pump lost prime and vault temperature
dropped to 33°F– Will add controls to prevent damage in case of
repeat situation.
• Five-Ton Slim Jim Pond Loop Installation– For performance Testing– Run in series with existing 5-ton pond loop
Slim Jim HX Installation
Task 4.6.1
• Smart Bridge Software Development– Graphical Portion Designed & Implemented– “Save” Thread has been completed– “Control” Thread completed on vault system– “Control” Thread for bridge heating to be
completed. (Interface with new control valve software for diverting fluid—See Smart Bridge Simulation & Control)
Task 4.6.1
• Smart Bridge Simulation & Control– Simulate Multi-Heat Pump System with the
single Heat Pump– Install header to connect the pond loops in
series or individual options (5-ton Slim Jim & 5-ton Copper Coils)
– Control heat to the bridge by mixing with a “no dead head” valve. Mix returns from pond and heat pump.
Manifold Under Bridge Deck
Tee
To Pond
To Deck
From Heat Pump
3-way control
Task 4.6.1
• Smart Bridge System Modifications– All isolation valves, fittings and transitions
have been ordered and received to accommodate the new controls system.
– Valves and connections have been assembled and remaining assembly must be done in the field.
– Moisture sensors to be re-bonded to the bridge deck and sealed on edges with NP1, a concrete sealant.
Plans for Next Quarter:• Complete software “control” thread for the bridge
heating, which includes the control valve software.• Finalize the programming to integrate the new
control scheme developed by Dr. Whiteley and group.
• Complete and operate the modified system and check out the data acquisition and controls to confirm the new software package.
• Prepare for the potential snow or freezing precipitation by running mock tests of the total links.
