Title: Analytical Model for Elastomeric Bridge Bearings

Author(s): Osama Hamzeh, Eric B. Becker and John L. Tassoulas

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 164

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 991-1014

Keywords: Bearings; bridge bearings; finite element method; shear properties; stiffness; rubber.

DOI: 10.14359/14336

Date: 11/1/1996

Abstract:
Elastomeric bridge bearings are analyzed using a nonlinear finite element method. In a plane-strain setting, the rubber is modeled as a hyper-elastic incompressible material. A frictional-contact algorithm is incorporated to account for the interaction of the bearing with the girder and the abutment. In this paper, the results of a study conducted to examine the effects of several design parameters on bearing performance are presented. The overall behavior of the bearing, with emphasis on its shear and compressive stiffnesses. is exam¬ined. In addition, stresses and strains in the bearing are discussed. Response of tapered bearings is investigated. Comparisons with experimental findings are shown.