CCEER-88-1: A Preliminary Study of One-Way Reinforced Concrete Pier Hinges Subjected to Shear and Flexure

Abstract

One-way reinforced concrete bridge column-to-foundation hinge connections were studied. Four specimens representing one-eighth scale models of the one-way hinges found on the Rose Creek bridge were built and tested. The specimens were subjected to uniaxial moment transfer in the strong direction.

Variables in the test were (a) shear-span to depth ratio and (b) monotonic versus cyclic behavior. Results from part (a) of the test indicated that shear resistance was primarily derived from aggregate interlock of the concrete within the compression zone, and not along the entire section depth as is assumed in the current design practice which is based upon shear friction theory. Results from part (b) of the test indicated that the reversal of load reduced the shear stiffness of the hinge considerably and that shear stiffness provided by the dowels was very small, thus reducing the energy absorption capacity of the hinge during earthquakes (Abstract by authors).