Performance of Grouted Coupler Embedded in Reinforced Concrete ABC Bridge Pier at Vehicle Impact

Increased occurrence of dynamic loading on bridge piers caused by seismic, blast and vehicular impact incidences have been increasingly reported. Statistical data shows that while seismic and blast have received significant attention in the literature, whereas the frequency of occurrence of vehicular impact is remarkably higher but contemplating little consideration. With the newer construction methods like accelerated bridge construction (ABC) and its response against vehicle impact performance needs an additional study before widespread use. Static and dynamic performances of the coupler are investigated. A representative circular RC bridge with circular cross-section is considered and hollow cylindrical splice-sleeves filled up with concrete grout is embedded in the foundation. Finite element model (FEM) of single grouted coupler is developed based on the manufacturer data. Apportioned load through load ratio is considered and applied to the individual coupler. Numerical simulations are also performed using commercial finite element software package, ANSYS. This research is led by mesh independent studies to precisely accomplish sensitivity analyses. The results from numerical simulations are compared with the corresponding analytical solution. Stress-strain resulted from conservative dynamic simulation are plotted followed by integrity analyses to capture material performance at high deformation. Quasi-static strain rates are utilized for steel re-bars with connected coupler and validated with the finite element (FE) results to determine dynamic impact factor (DIF) of steel. This is further validated through utilizing experimental data from published journal. This study instills a good agreement by providing valuable information to aid in the selection of appropriate coupler connections, addressing material properties at various performance level, and contributes useful guidelines for the researchers, practitioners, and structural engineers.