LAUSR

This paper tried to analyze the effects of deck-to-pier connections on pier design forces of a number of typical bridges. To this end, the behavior of pier connection of several 3D concrete bridge models was studied under service loads. A parametric study is conducted to investigate the different bearing types and pier height effects. The responses of models, such as superstructure displacements, forces, and displacements of deck-to-pier connections, and column forces are presented. The analysis results revealed that an increase in pier height leads to a considerable rise in the pier displacements and a decrease in transferring forces in all types of connections, and the greatest increase was found in the single elastomeric-bearing line. Therefore, rigid connections have better performance compared to other cases in high piers. Moreover, evaluating the effect of deck-to-pier connection on the pier force distribution indicated that the double elastomeric-bearing line connection increases the rigidity and transferred moment in comparison to the single line to the pier. Thus, its restraint lies between rigid and single bearing line conditions, and it should be considered in column design and can be more effective in moderate pier height. It was also revealed that the bearing location has a significant effect on the connection stiffness and transferred forces to the pier and influences its behavior and design.