Simplified Blast-Load Effects on the Column and Bent Beam of Highway Bridges
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 20, Issue 10
Abstract
The primary objective of this study is to investigate whether simplified blast loading together with a pier-bent model could be employed to reveal the main damage mechanisms of typical highway bridges subjected to blast loading. The high-fidelity finite element model of a pier-bent system for highway bridges was established, and Conventional Weapon Effects (CONWEP) reflected pressure on a rigid surface was applied directly on the structure surfaces. The study shows that the pier-bent model together with the simplified blast loading may reproduce many of the damage mechanisms of typical highway bridges, but simplified blast loading may underestimate the blast-load effects to some extent. A heavier explosive charge than the designed one may therefore be needed in order to capture the full range of damage mechanisms. It is advisable to include an equivalent slab in the model even if the focus is on the column and bent. The study also showed that enhancement of transverse reinforcement significantly improved the blast resistance of highway bridges.
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Acknowledgments and Disclaimer
This material is partly based on work supported by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security under Award Number 2010-ST-062-000040. The support is gratefully acknowledged. The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as necessarily representing the official policies, either expressed or implied, of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 20 • Issue 10 • October 2015
Copyright
© 2015 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jul 16, 2014
Accepted: Oct 24, 2014
Published online: Feb 23, 2015
Discussion open until: Jul 23, 2015
Published in print: Oct 1, 2015
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