Application of precast reinforced concrete fuse units as energy dissipation units in various self-centering precast bridge pier systems

This study proposes the implementation of scaled modular reinforced concrete (RC) units as replaceable energy dissipation (ED) elements in various RC self-centering (SC) precast bridge pier (PBP) systems. Regarding the resistance mechanism of RC ED units, two types can be integrated with the main SC system: modular RC units that dissipate energy through the well-known plastic hinge mechanism, and hybrid modular precast SC units that dissipate energy through the yielding of mild steel reinforcement. Using commercial finite element (FE) software, three-dimensional (3D) FE models for different PBP systems (single-column, double-column, and wall PBP systems) were developed and examined under lateral cyclic loading. Various potentially influential design parameters were carefully studied. The studied cases successfully demonstrated that the proposed system introduces a novel, cost-effective damage-control system, which provides customizable ED capabilities, offers additional designable lateral resistance, and ensures rapid repair without compromising the functionality of the main SC structural system. Furthermore, in accordance with the design codes/guidelines for concrete structures exposed to earthquakes, the components defined as ED units can achieve the predefined seismic response without compromising the seismic performance or SC capacity of the main system.