Development of dynamic test for analyzing free vibrations of bridge piers

Author

David Herschel McAlister

Date of Award

12-1994

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Civil Engineering

Major Professor

James Harold Deatherage

Committee Members

Edwin G. Burdette, David Goodpasture

Abstract

A quick release test on piles was designed to aid in the understanding of the soil-pier interface of bridge piers under seismic loads. All facets of the test were designed and proof tested in the laboratory before field tests were performed. The test was specifically for use in loess soil, but was designed to be applied to tests in any type soil.

The results of the preliminary field tests demonstrate the acceptability of the design as a quick release test to determine the dynamic characteristics of the soil-pile interface. The tests resulted in a static stiffness of 66.67 kips per inch in loess soil. The tests also provided a frequency of 15 hertz for a unit mass pile. This frequency should be reduced considerably by attaching a lumped mass to the system. A damping ratio of 13.9 percent of critical damping also was recorded. This quick release test demonstrated the acceptability of the procedure for future tests.

Recommended Citation

McAlister, David Herschel, "Development of dynamic test for analyzing free vibrations of bridge piers. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1994.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/11606