Practical desighn of tall bridge piers using second-order theory

Abstract

An algorithm is presented for the design of tall reinforced concrete bridge piers submitted to axial forces and biaxial bending, using second-order theory. This algotithm is based on an efficient method for cross-section analysis and on a practical procedure for the definition of the feometry and reinforcement of the pier. The corresponding programs, prepared for piers of box, annular or H cross-sections, allow the analysis of a pier to be made in 15 seconds on a low-cost IBM-compatible computer, and facilitate an adequate design of piers of this type.