Mastering NSTM Inspections with AssetIntel’s Expertise

 Nonredundant Steel Tension Members (NSTM) are critical components in bridge safety, and AssetIntel is equipping agencies with the tools and knowledge to manage these vulnerable elements effectively. With the shift from the term “fracture critical” to NSTM under the Specifications for the National Bridge Inventory (SNBI), understanding and inspecting these members has become more precise. An NSTM is a primary steel member in tension without redundancy, where failure could lead to partial or total bridge collapse, making regular inspections essential for public safety.

AssetIntel’s inspectX platform supports NSTM inspections with hands-on tools tailored to the SNBI’s requirements. Inspectors can document fatigue cracks and measure structural integrity using tablet-based technology, even in offline environments. The SNBI mandates inspection intervals of 12, 24, or 48 months based on condition, and AssetIntel’s software helps schedule these assessments, ensuring compliance with FHWA guidelines. For instance, bridges with an NSTM condition rating of 2 or lower trigger critical finding protocols, prompting immediate response plans.

The company’s approach goes beyond compliance, offering training and resources to enhance NSTM inspection accuracy. AssetIntel’s team collaborates with agencies to develop detailed inspection plans, including access strategies with snooper trucks and optimal timing to avoid weather-related risks. This proactive stance has proven effective, with one client noting a 20% reduction in missed NSTM defects after adopting AssetIntel’s methods. The software also integrates NSTM data into broader bridge management systems, providing a holistic view of structural health.

AssetIntel’s innovation shines in its real-time monitoring capabilities, protecting NSTM-equipped bridges from sudden failures due to environmental stressors like floods or seismic activity. The platform’s GIS mapping feature allows inspectors to visualize NSTM locations across a region, streamlining fieldwork. As agencies adapt to SNBI’s emphasis on risk-based management, AssetIntel’s expertise ensures NSTM inspections are thorough and efficient, safeguarding infrastructure for years to come.

Agencies interested in mastering NSTM inspections can request a free demo from AssetIntel to see these tools in action. With a dedication to safety and technological advancement, AssetIntel is a leader in managing the challenges posed by NSTM bridges.

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FHWA’s Errata 1 brings key SNBI updates—clarity, codes, and compliance. inspectX™ is already there. No retrofits. No delays. Just built-in readiness. Connect with us to see it in action

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