Numerical Modeling and Parametric Analysis of Grouted Coupler Connections under Varying Impact Loading Conditions

Grouted coupler connections are a common connection type used in Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC). Evaluation for seismic performance of typical ABC column-footing connections has been undertaken in high earthquake prone states like Utah, California, Nevada, and Idaho. However, apart from the dynamic load exhibited by earthquake, the deformation and failure behavior of these connections to vehicular impact is also critical and warrants investigation. This study will seek to develop a sophisticated finite element model would account for an accurate representation of the coupler/rebar interface, energy transfer from the impacted column location through the coupler into the foundation, and material strength degradation. The model will be validated with existing experimental data collected at the USU SMASH Lab. The experimental data consists of single coupler and full scale column testing. The results of the experiments and modelling will also be compared to normal column connections to see if any major differences warrant separate damage index calculations.

• Record URL:
  https://www.mountain-plains.org/research/details.php?id=593

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $150000
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3551747108

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  Mountain-Plains Consortium

  North Dakota State University
  Fargo, ND  United States  58108
• Project Managers:

  Tolliver, Denver

• Performing Organizations:

  Civil & Environmental Engineering Department

  Utah State University
  Logan, UT  United States 
• Principal Investigators:

  Sorensen, Andrew

  Esteghamati, Mohsen

• Start Date: 20221011
• Expected Completion Date: 20240731
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers Program
• Source Data: MPC-696

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridge construction; Columns; Finite element method; Impact loads; Structural connection
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Highways; Materials;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01861397
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Mountain-Plains Consortium
• Contract Numbers: 69A3551747108
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Oct 17 2022 10:18PM