The seismic performance comparison of integral bridge model by using finite element program and shaking table test

Abstract

In this paper, the experimental approach was conducted to validate the result of numerical approach. The integral concrete box-girder bridge was modelled by using finite element method (FEM) program and comparing by using dynamic shaking table. There are four steps that were involved in validating the result: (1) scaling integral concrete box-girder bridge by implementing Buckingham PI theorem; (2) setting the shaking table, shaker controller, strain gauge, load varied displacement transducer (LVDT) and accelerometer; (3) analyzing finite element modelling of scaled integral concrete box-girder bridge; (4) comparing the acceleration of structure response from accelerometer and finite element modelling. The results show that the percentage of difference of experimental test and finite element analysis is only 11% for structure acceleration and 18% for structure displacement. It was found that the experimental test result had proved that the finite element analysis as a numerical approximate method can demonstrate significant actual bridge response under earthquake loading. Key words: Dynamic shaking table, finite element program, acceleration, displacement, strain.