Modelling an Integral Abutment Bridge
Modelling an Integral Abutment Bridge
(OP)
Gooday Fellows!
What is the correct (or the most likely the close one to represent) way to model a bridge with integral abutments? Bridges with no joints, and practically the end diaphragm on abutments are to be poured monolithic with the backwalls?
Thanks!
What is the correct (or the most likely the close one to represent) way to model a bridge with integral abutments? Bridges with no joints, and practically the end diaphragm on abutments are to be poured monolithic with the backwalls?
Thanks!






RE: Modelling an Integral Abutment Bridge
RE: Modelling an Integral Abutment Bridge
RE: Modelling an Integral Abutment Bridge
Most DOTs have details to account for the moment that is developed at the integral abutment. Additional reinforcing is provided from the slab down the back of the abutment. This has become standard practice.
If your abutment is founded on drilled shafts, then a split analysis analysis should be considered. One for the superstructure with the abutment pinned and another for the substrucure with the abutment fixed for frame action. This will provide the most conservative results for both siutations, deisgn of the superstructure and design of the substructure.
If you are analyzing the integral abutment alone or as part of the bridge for earthquake analysis then a more detailed model of the integral abutment is warrented. Keeping in mind that more detailed doesn't always mean a 3D brick element FEA. It may mean incorporating all the necessary stiffness elements and then condensing them to a point on a frame element. This method has been used successfully for years.
Regards,

Qshake
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RE: Modelling an Integral Abutment Bridge
Very Truly Yours,
- andru18
RE: Modelling an Integral Abutment Bridge
Does the requirement of "No Seismic Analysis for Single Span Bridge are required" also applies for single span integral bridges?
If not, so it is necessary to to a seismic design?
Very Truly Yours,
- andru18