Title: Design Trends for Concrete Bridge Piers

Author(s): R. W. Poston, M. Diaz, and J. E. Breen

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 83

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 14-20

Keywords: bending; biaxial loads; bridge piers: building codes; columns (supports); creep properties; deflection; reinforced concrete; reviews; slenderness ratio; strength; structural analysis; structural design.

DOI: 10.14359/10739

Date: 1/1/1986

Abstract:
This paper summarizes the results from a state-of-the-art survey concerning usage and design needs for slender concrete bridge piers. The survey reveals increasing use of slender compression members, concerns for biaxial bending effects in piers, and occasional use of non-uniform shapes such as tapered, flared, and stepped compression members. To simplify the analysis and design of these type of piers, comprehensive computer programs were developed and are described in a companion paper. This paper also addresses some of the concerns expressed by survey respondents by providing a brief review and suggestions for improvements in present AASHTO approximate slender concrete compression member analysis procedures. Improvements to both the moment magnifier method and stability index procedure are made.