Modeling of Jointed Connections in Segmental Bridges
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 16, Issue 1
Abstract
Precast segmental construction of bridges can accelerate construction and minimize the cost of medium span bridges in environmentally sensitive and difficult to access locations. Despite these benefits, the use of precast segmental bridges in seismic regions of the United States remains limited. A main obstacle to their use is concern regarding the seismic response of segment joints. Recent experimental research programs studied the seismic performance of segmental superstructures. However, an estimate of the seismic response of full-scale segmental bridges to real earthquake records remains unknown. This paper presents a segment joint modeling approach and is an important first step toward accurately estimating the seismic response of superstructure segment joints to input ground motions. The approach is a compromise between the detailed and computationally intensive continuum mechanics based finite element approach and a simple approach that models the joints with rotational springs. The approach considers the nonlinear tendon-grout slip response and was validated with data from large-scale experiments. Numerous modeling sensitivity studies were performed and recommendations for implementation in full-scale models are presented.
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Acknowledgments
This research project was made possible by funding from the California Department of Transportation under Contract No. UNSPECIFIED59A0337. The input of Dr. Charly Sikorsky and others at Caltrans was greatly appreciated. The writers would like to acknowledge the modeling expertise and guidance of Dr. Athol Carr at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand.
References
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Veletzos, M. J., Restrepo, J. I., and Seible, F. (2006). “Seismic response of precast segmental bridge superstructures.” Structural Systems Research Project, SSRP 06/18, Univ. of California at San Diego, La Jolla, Calif.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 16 • Issue 1 • January 2011
Pages: 139 - 147
Copyright
© 2011 ASCE.
History
Received: Jun 19, 2009
Accepted: Mar 2, 2010
Published online: Mar 4, 2010
Published in print: Jan 2011
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