Title: Hollow Concrete Bridge Pier Behavior

Author(s): R. W. Poston, T. E. Gilliam, Y. Yamamoto, and J. E. Breen

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 82

Issue: 6

Appears on pages(s): 779-787

Keywords: bending; biaxial loads; bridge piers; columns (supports); models; moment-curvature relationship; reinforced concrete; research; slenderness ratio; strength; structural analysis; tests.

Date: 11/1/1985

Abstract:
This paper reports results of tests of four model bridge piers. The principal objectives of this experimental program were to verify the axial load-moment curvature P-M-O relationship for hollow columns and to examine the validity of the plane-section assumption for hollow-pier sections. This was necessary to validate completely the computer analysis programs for the design of slender, nonprismatic, and hollow concrete bridge piers. It is concluded that the plane-section assumption is valid for rectangular solid and cellular cross sections if the unsupported wall length to thickness ratio does not exceed 6. For ratios greater than a Strength reduction is indicated due to nonplanar action or local instability.