Title:
Numerical Modeling Methodology for Strength Evaluation of Deep Bridge Bent Caps
Author(s):
Anish Sharma and Serhan Guner
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
342
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
162-177
Keywords:
bridge bent beams, deep beams, NLFEA, strength evaluation, safety assessment, failure, sectional method, strut-and-tie method, rehabilitation
DOI:
10.14359/51725943
Date:
6/1/2020
Abstract:
Due to the increase in traffic and transported freight in the past decades, a significant number of in-service
bridges have been subjected to loads above their original design capacities. Bridge structures typically incorporate
deep concrete elements, such as cap beams or bent caps, with higher shear strengths than slender elements. However,
many in-service bridges did not account for the deep beam effects in their original design due to the lack of suitable
analysis methods at that time. Nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA) can provide a better assessment of the load
capacity of deep bridge bent beams while accounting for the deep beam action. However, there is little guidance on
how to conduct a numerical strength evaluation using the NLFEA. This study presents a nonlinear modeling
methodology for the strength evaluation of deep bridge bents while considering advanced concrete behavior such as
tension stiffening, compression softening, and dowel action. Five existing bridge bent beams are examined using the
proposed methodology. The effectiveness and advantages of the proposed methodology are discussed by comparing
the numerical results, including the load-displacement responses, load capacities, cracking patterns and failure modes, with the strut-and-tie and sectional analysis methods. Important modeling considerations are also discussed to assist
practitioners in accurately evaluating deep bridge bents.