Precast Concrete Pier Systems for Rapid Construction of Bridges in Seismic Regions




EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Increasing traffic volumes and a deteriorating transportation infrastructure have

stimulated the development of new systems and methods to accelerate the construction of

highway bridges in order to reduce traveler delays. Precast concrete bridge components

offer a potential alternative to conventional reinforced, cast-in-place concrete

components. The increased use of precast concrete components could facilitate rapid

construction, minimize traffic disruption, improve work zone safety, reduce

environmental impacts, improve constructability, and lower life-cycle costs. .

This study compared two precast concrete bridge pier systems for rapid

construction of bridges in seismic regions. The systems made use of precast concrete

cap-beams and columns supported on cast-in-place concrete foundations. One was a

reinforced concrete system, in which mild steel deformed bars connected the precast

concrete components and provided the flexural strength of the columns. The other was a

hybrid system, which used a combination of unbonded post-tensioning and mild steel

deformed bars to make the connections and provide the required flexural stiffness and

strength.

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